“A century-old colonial-style half-timbered mansion, distinguished by its octagonal facade and Western-style fretwork balcony, reflecting the prosperity of the timber concession era in Lampang.”
Louis T. Leonowens House is located within the area of the Forest Industry Organization (FIO) in the historic Tha Mao district of Lampang. It is an important building that reflects the time when Lampang was a center of the world's teak trade. This house was built in the late 25th Buddhist century to serve as a residence and office for Louis T. Leonowens, the son of Anna Leonowens, a famous English teacher in the Siamese court.
Western Architecture in the Teak City
The building is a two-story, half-timbered Colonial Style structure, using high-quality teak as the main structure. It is distinguished by the octagonal facade of the building, which is a unique feature reflecting European taste in the timber concession era. There are also wooden louver windows that provide good ventilation, suitable for the hot and humid climate of Thailand, along with beautiful fretwork on the eaves and balconies.
Traces of the Prosperity of the Teak Industry
Large teak structures still appear around the house, showing the abundance of teak resources in the past and reflecting the wealth of the forestry business in Lampang. This house was not only a residence but also served as the office of a timber company during the peak of the forestry business.
Architectural Heritage Conservation
After the end of the timber concession era, this house was under the care of government agencies and underwent a major renovation in 2019 to preserve its original structure. It also received the Outstanding Architectural Conservation Award from the Association of Siamese Architects, reflecting the architectural and historical value of this place.
A Source of Learning about the History of Lampang
Today, Louis T. Leonowens House is still used as part of the Forest Industry Organization's office and offers tourists the opportunity to admire the beauty of the building and learn about the history of the forestry industry, which is a fundamental foundation for the development of Lampang in the past.
How to Get There
- By Car: From Ratsadaphisek Bridge, drive onto Tha Mao Road (passing Wat Phra Kaeo Don Tao). Observe the entrance sign to the Forest Industry Organization (FIO) on the left. You can turn in and park within the area.
Travel Tips
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It is recommended to come on Monday–Friday to be able to ask permission from the staff to see the details of the building more closely.
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The time between 09:00 – 10:30 AM is when the sunlight shines beautifully on the front of the building, suitable for taking pictures.
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The most beautiful photo angle is in front of the house at the octagonal facade, which clearly gives a retro atmosphere.
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You can walk or bike around the Tha Mao area, which has many ancient wooden houses and historical sites.
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Because it is a government office area, you should follow the instructions of the staff and avoid making loud noises.
Admission Fee:
- Free admission
Opening Hours:
- Monday – Friday, 08:30 AM – 4:30 PM.
(Closed on Saturdays–Sundays and public holidays)