As I sip on an IPA from a snifter looking out through floor-to-ceiling windows five storeys above Nimmanhaemin Road, I can’t believe I’m in Chiang Mai. Just a few years ago, finding craft beer was rare but here I am sitting at a bar that wouldn’t be out of place in Berlin.
It’s not just the bar though, the entire One Nimman complex has you marvelling at where you are.
While many outdoor ‘community malls’ in Thailand tend to take the same route, housing a mix of large brands and basic mom and pop shops, One Nimman primarily features local, boutique brands — from hand-dyed indigo textiles to hand-picked organic teas — all set in a stunning architectural complex of brick, wood, iron and concrete.
Here, one can sample Thai delicacies ranging from fresh durian and the iconic Cha Tra Mue Thai tea ice cream to simple noodle soups and northern Thai coffee. The local flavour extends to the shops, filled with hand-sewn garments, carefully crafted home decor, delicate jewellery and standalone souvenirs all displayed with a unique sense of style.
At first glance
With its spired brick clock tower and impressive brick facade, One Nimman makes a strong first impression with its massive size and style alone. The complex was designed by celebrated Thai architect Ong-ard Satrabhandhu. Known for his mastery of skill and proportion, particularly when blending architectural components from civilisation’s greatest classic design styles, such as from Italy, India and China with traditional Northern Thai elements, Satrabhandhu went above and beyond creating not just a shopping centre but a self-contained world just waiting to be explored.
Even after stepping through the arched walkways from the outside, one can’t immediately tell what wonders wait behind the brick walls. Different visits of my own have revealed the meandering department shops trailing across the second storey, a separate meeting space and event venue, and hidden nooks offering sweeping views of the courtyard below.
Getting There
Located at the corner of Huay Kaew and Nimmanhaemin Roads, One Nimman has two entrances leading into a 200-space car park. Those staying in the Nimmanhaemin neighbourhood can easily walk to the complex. Alternatively, any tuk tuk, songthaew or taxi driver will be familiar with the destination.
Allot a couple of hours to thoroughly explore One Nimman, more if you’re planning to grab a bite or stick around to simply people watch. Opening hours vary depending on the outlet but many sections open from daily 11:00-23:00 hours.
onenimman.com
Exotiq Picks
Shopping
Take the escalator up to the second storey to wind your way through the centre’s department store — just know you have to keep walking through the entire way to come back down!
Pañpuri — Luxe all-natural and organic skin care, scents and home items.
Ginger — Delightfully colourful home goods, accessories and more.
Outfit of the Day — A curated selection of trendy men’s and women’s clothing and accessories.
Chabaa — Vibrant women’s clothing and accessories using tribal textiles and plenty of texture.
Butterfly — Signature scents featuring traditional Thai flowers, herbs and aromatics.
Dining & Drinking
Graph Cafe — Finely brewed coffee and creative signature drinks.
Monsoon Tea — Wild and free-grown loose-leaf teas from northern Thailand.
Ginger Farm Kitchen— Delicious Thai and international dishes made with farm-fresh ingredients in a bright and quirky space.
Parallel Universe on the Lunar Moon 2 — Domestic and foreign microbrews served overlooking Nimmanhaemin Road.
One Food Hall — A variety of Thai street food snacks and meals for quick and affordable eating.
Activities
Stop by the organic produce market held near the One Nimman courtyard every Sunday from 7:00-14:00 hours or join one of the complimentary classes organised each week:
- Let's Yoga — Every Tuesday and Thursday from 9.30-10.30 hours.
- Let’s Tango — Every Wednesday from 21:00 hours till late.
- Let’s Swing — Every Saturday from 21:00 hours till late.
- Let’s Salsa — Every Sunday from 21:00 hours till late.
