‘BAANYOK’ INSIGHTS
Fat Mango Studios collaborated with Travel + Leisure and Airbnb on a documentary-style social content project featuring Baanyok, a boutique Airbnb located in Bangkok’s historic district.
As a long-term collaborator with Travel + Leisure, we’ve worked across a range of hospitality narratives, from hotels to independent stays. This project stood out for its documentary-driven approach to social media, focusing on storytelling rather than traditional promotional content.
The brief centred around Baanyok as an alternative perspective on city living. In contrast to Bangkok’s fast-changing, neon-lit landscape, the space reflects a quieter, more intentional way of experiencing the city. Owned by Poupé, Baanyok is a restored 1920s shophouse that celebrates heritage, craftsmanship, and personal aesthetics.
Our approach focused on translating this atmosphere visually. Through careful use of lighting, shutter speed, framing, and colour, we aimed to highlight the rustic textures of the space while maintaining a natural and comfortable tone. Rather than over-stylising, we leaned into subtle details, antique materials, wooden textures, and the interplay of light across each room.
Pre-production played a key role in shaping the outcome. We conducted a location scout to map out compositions and understand how each space could be framed to feel open, lived-in, and inviting. Particular attention was given to avoiding tight or overly staged shots, allowing the environment to breathe and reflect its character.
Beyond the interiors, we extended the story into the surrounding neighbourhood. Located near Yaowarat, Bangkok’s Chinatown, Baanyok is deeply influenced by its cultural context. By capturing elements of the area, street life, textures, movement, and atmosphere, we were able to build a more complete narrative around the space.
At its core, this project reflects the value of homegrown hospitality. Baanyok is not a mass-produced experience, but a personal one, shaped by its owner’s vision and care. Through this documentary approach, we aimed to give space to that story, highlighting the people, the place, and the intention behind it.