From the outset, W Bangkok blends into its concrete surrounds of shiny skyscrapers. Inside, however, is another story. The futuristic entrance opens up to a glamorous and trippy lobby, furnished with black marble, bejewelled walls, swanky furniture and neon lighting. Electronic music permeates the space.

W Hotels are made for rock star living, and its Thai outpost is no exception. True to the W brand, W Bangkok embraces the capital’s traditions and quirks: the glittering tattoo-inspired mural behind the front desk, created by artist Maysa Yanovan, depicts a phoenix and a tiger engaged in battle; the screens at WOOBAR’s VIP rooms pay tribute to Thai boxing rings; design firm AvroKO decorated the wall of ground floor lift lobby with Tuk Tuk lights; and there’s the croc-patterned wall by Thai artist Sutee Kunavichayanont is based on “Krai Thong”, a Thai folk tale.

The hotel has 403 guestrooms and suites, two restaurants (The Kitchen Table for casual dining and The House on Sathorn for a posh meal), a bar (WOOBAR), a spa (AWAY Spa), a gym and an eye-shaped outdoor pool on the sixth floor. It’s undeniably well-geared for business considering the location – there’s a proper work desk with wired and wireless internet access in all rooms, and even a fully-equipped 24-hour WIRED Business Centre – but we find it hard to imagine getting any work done (which may be a good thing). Rooms are also open in layout, with not much privacy from your roommate save for translucent coloured glass panels that separate the bathroom and the bedroom. Oh, toilet is completely see-through, too. Throw in tubs-for-two, oversized beds, and sensual bath products from Bliss, these seductive spaces are made for more than just snoozing.

With its endless party atmosphere, it’s little wonder that W Bangkok’s busiest time of the year is in April, where Songkran-goers are known to book a room here a year in advance. Every year, the hotel throws its annual Songkran Splash Away Pool Party, touted as one of the city’s slickest parties during the Thai New Year celebrations. But if you aren’t the party type and W Bangkok seems a tad too loud for you, it’s worth popping in to dine The House of Sathorn.

Built in 1889 and formerly a Russian Embassy, the restored colonial mansion is a stark contrast to the ultra-modern aesthetic of W. Home to a restaurant, a bar, an alfresco bistro, a club lounge and a function room, The House of Sathorn is one of Bangkok’s most iconic culinary venue. Our experience at The Dining Room, helmed by Turkish chef Fatih Tutak, was delightful – every dish was Instagram-worthy, and if you get a seat at the counter, you’ll get to see all the action. Go for the “Signature Journey” for a full experience – highlights includes the Hokkaido Bafun sea urchin, Shakshuka free-ranged egg, tuna belly, the Alexandria bay red prawns, a slightly grotesque roasted pigeon named “Sultan’s Message Can’t Deliver”, which sits atop a splatter of red currant sauce and has a secret message tied to the pigeon, and three lovely desserts to finish off a theatrical meal.

W Bangkok, 106 North Sathon Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500, (66) 2 344 4000.