Thongma Studio - Mae Rim (Chiang Mai, Thailand)

Meet Mae Rim. A sleepy village half an hour’s scooter ride north of Chiang Mai. Besides a Four Seasons, some rice fields and a farm here and there nothing crazy. Except for this one art gallery slash coffee bar hidden in the rainforests of Mae Rim.

Ever wondered what it's like to have a coffee with a famous Thai interior decorator and sculptor? Look no further: Thongma Studio is where you want to be. Chamnian Thongma is the man behind the special studios in Chiang Mai and Mae Rim. Creative locations where Thongma exhibits his work while friendly baristas serve you sustainable coffees or fresh juices with pastries and sandwiches from the short but excellent lunch menu.

Perhaps the most eye-catching of the studio in Mae Rim are the many pieces of art and human sculptures - spread throughout the studio and outside in the tropical garden. Refined real life sculptures carved from raw materials such as wood and limestone. A bit classic, but that contrasts nicely with the industrial look of the studio. That tropical garden is also a great place to have lunch. On one of the tables surround by giant elephant ears (the plants) and close to a babbling brook. Note: during rainy season you are better off indoors because of the mosquitoes.

For those not able to travel to Mae Rim: there are two locations in Chiang Mai to view Thongma's work. At Thongma Studio at One Nimman or at Villa Mahabhirom - one of the most beautiful boutique hotels in Chiang Mai.

Thongma Studio Mae Rim