Bill Bensley is the mind behind some of Asia’s biggest, flashiest hotels—from the mountains of Mustang to the hills of Bali and Bangkok riverside art deco ultraluxe resorts. Now, the renaissance man has opened Coolies Club in Phuket Town. 

 

Found in a traditional Sino-Portuguese shophouse, the colorful new space reflects the island’s history as a tin mine in Soi Romanee, a vibrant tourist haven that was once a red light district.

 

The wallet behind the project is Krystal Prakaikaew Na-Ranong, the owner of the design-forward The Slate in Phuket, also designed by Bill Bensley. Krystal’s own grandfather came to Phuket from China in the early 20th century to work in Phuket’s mines. 

 

The building at Coolies Club was built by Chinese workers in 1883 and features Chinese touches throughout. Bill Bensley created a chic, sleek opium den with antique furnishings—and anyone who’s been to Bill’s Bangkok home knows this man can shop. 

 

The downstairs area is for themed signature cocktails and upstairs features “opium den dining” with two private bedrooms. The space says the restaurant will cook using an open fire and will be complemented by fine wines and artisan spirits.

 

Guests of the Slate will have the Coolies Club as part of their stay but the venue is open to all.