AWC, Nobu to develop Plaza Athenee hotel in NYC

Thailand-based Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC) and Nobu Hospitality have partnered to develop Plaza Athenee hotels in New York and Bangkok.

“AWC is delighted to expand our collaboration with Nobu Hospitality as it marks another important milestone for our partnership,” said Wallapa Traisorat, CEO/president, AWC. “With our shared vision of creating unique experience to customers and developing sustainable values for all stakeholders, AWC has found the ideal partner for our special flagship projects. We are very excited about the development of these two unique projects. The Hotel Plaza Athenee New York has been one of the best hotels in New York for many consecutive years. A freehold prime asset, the building is located on the Upper East Side on 64th Street between Park Avenue and Madison Avenue, one of the most sought-after luxury neighborhoods in New York, and will be developed into Plaza Athenee Nobu Hotel and Spa New York. In Thailand, the heritage EAC building by the Chao Phraya River will be developed into The Plaza Athenee Nobu Hotel and Spa Bangkok. These hotels will offer the unique luxury experience of the Plaza Athenee brand and the modern luxury with minimal Japanese tradition from Nobu, the world’s most renowned lifestyle brand.”

She added, “AWC’s investment for Hotel Plaza Athenee New York is based on AWC growth-led strategy, which will lay the foundation for continuous and sustainable growth. This unique and special investment has been supported by the board of directors of the company and is in the approval process by the shareholders. We believe that the investment in this flagship project in New York can unlock further growth for AWC, while broadening the company’s strategic positioning and customer base.”

Trevor Horwell, CEO, Nobu Hospitality, said, “We are profoundly grateful that AWC has entrusted us with the development of two of their most valuable properties in the most iconic buildings and historic areas of two exceptional cities. We are privileged to collaborate closely with the AWC team, led by visionary CEO Khun Wallapa Traisorat, who is spearheading an exciting and innovative approach to the hospitality industry. The Plaza Athenee Nobu Hotel and Spa Bangkok and the Plaza Athenee Nobu Hotel and Spa New York will redefine the standards of luxury and sophistication not only in Thailand but also in the U.S. This partnership allows us to embark upon an extraordinary journey together.”

Both hotels are scheduled to open in 2026.

Plaza Athenee Nobu Hotel & Spa New York will represent Nobu’s inaugural hotel in New York and will offer 145 room keys; a traditional Japanese Onsen, spa and wellness center; a rooftop area; and a bar and lounge. AWC will oversee overall project development along with the concept and design.

In Bangkok, the Plaza Athenee Nobu Hotel and Spa Bangkok will be developed on a historical site. The EAC building was founded in 1884 by Captain Hans Niels Andersen, a Danish mariner and entrepreneur who founded East Asiatic Company.

Wallapa added, “The development of these remarkable hotels in two major global destinations with Nobu Hospitality will also strengthen the long-standing Plaza Athenee brand together with the uniquely modern luxury lifestyle of Nobu brand to offer best-in-class products and services to global travelers. Through this strategic partnership of AWC and Nobu Hospitality, we believe to build a new benchmark and create long-term sustainable value for the industry.”