History

Chiang Mai is traditionally known as "The Rose of the North," a nickname inspired by both its natural beauty and its unique setting among forests, rivers and mountains. The surrounding peaks bring cooler air and a slower pace of life, making Chiang Mai one of Thailand's most beloved cities, a place where visitors immediately feel at home.

Founded in 1296, Chiang Mai became the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, succeeding Chiang Rai and remaining its political and cultural centre until the end of the Lanna period. Nestled in the fertile Ping River valley, the city flourished through agriculture, supported by an extensive irrigation network essential for rice cultivation. Naturally protected by surrounding mountains, it also occupied a strategic position between Burma, Southern China, Laos and the Kingdom of Siam, quickly becoming an important crossroads for trade, people and ideas.

As the kingdom prospered, Chiang Mai emerged as a major spiritual centre. Magnificent royal temples were built throughout the city, and it played a defining role in the spread of Theravada Buddhism, establishing itself as the cultural and spiritual heart of the Lanna civilisation.

Once a bustling trading hub, the Wat Ket area still carries a rare blend of Chinese, Burmese, and Western influences, with churches and mosques you won't find elsewhere in Chiang Mai.

As you wander around the house today, you still come across landmarks that began in that era: respected international schools, like Prince Royal College (1887), 100 meters from here, and hospitals whose origins dates back to this period.

What many visitors notice most is its architecture: a graceful meeting of traditional Lanna style and foreign influences, especially English and Victorian, which gave rise to the famous “Gingerbread Houses.” This Colonial Lanna spirit is another reminder of Thailand's long talent for welcoming outside ideas while holding on to its independence and distinctive character.

It is interesting to note that the land title of BAAN SARANTAYA traces back to a transfer from the royal family to the Bain family, former managers of the Borneo Company, one of the first companies to establish itself in Chiang Mai in the 19th century. The British company was previously managed by Louis T. Leonovens, relative to Anna Leonovens, the famous governess of the Rama IV King´s children, which story was related in the the Book and movie The king and I.

The neighborhood has evolved over time, yet the Royal Thai government has worked to preserve its historical character and its singular riverside atmosphere, today famous for its cafés and restaurants. The Wat Ket district is therefore subject to certain architectural guidelines and requirements, including the protection of green spaces.

When Baan SaranTaya and its adjoining house were brought to life, the owner's ambition was to pay tribute to the historic Wat Ket neighbourhood and to the timeless spirit of Chiang Mai.

While offering every modern comfort, the house celebrates the distinctive architectural character of the late nineteenth century. Hand-carved colonnades, open verandas, delicate stucco mouldings, teak wood, locally crafted ceramics, and finely worked iron details all reflect the remarkable craftsmanship for which Chiang Mai has long been renowned.

Designed to welcome its guests with a sense of calm and serenity, the house is filled with soft natural light and gentle breezes throughout the day, creating a peaceful atmosphere in every room.

At the heart of the garden stands a century-old tamarind tree beside an ancient stone well. Legend says dragons dwell beneath its waters, watching over the property and protecting all who enter.

The name Baan SaranTaya is itself deeply meaningful.

In Thai, Baan simply means home.

Saran, derived from Sanskrit, means shelter or protection.

Taya is a shortened form of Anantaya, also from Sanskrit, referring to something that transcends the limits of time and space, something eternal.

Saran and Anantaya are also the names of our two children.