The rooftop garden at Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld reflects the hotel's forward-thinking approach to environmental sustainability and the long-term well-being of its guests. Situated on the 26th floor, this 1,296-square-metre organic farming project is the first of its kind within the Centara group, transforming previously unused space into a productive rooftop farm.
Designed as an open-system greenhouse, the garden features a translucent roof for protection from rainfall and side openings to ensure optimal air circulation. All vegetables are cultivated using 100% organic methods, completely free from chemicals. The farming approach closely replicates natural conditions, allowing crops to grow as they would in nature.
Over the past year, the rooftop farm has yielded an impressive harvest:
Butterhead lettuce: 467.18 kg
Green Oak: 421.11 kg
Green Cos: 306.23 kg
Red Oak: 132.26 kg
Kale: 440.40 kg
Italian Basil: 182.25 kg
From January to December 2024, the garden produced a total of 3,776 kilograms of fresh vegetables - resulting in cost savings of THB 897,310.30 compared to market prices.
Sustainability efforts extend further with the recycling of food waste from the staff cafeteria to create organic compost used in the cultivation process. This closed-loop system ensures all produce is chemical-free, safe, and nutritious. A dedicated garden team oversees the crops, maintaining strict quality standards so guests can enjoy fresh, healthy ingredients.
The produce - ranging from Green Butterhead and Red Oak to Rocket (Arugula) and a selection of herbs - is featured in the hotel's restaurant menus, bringing farm-to-table freshness to every meal. The initiative supports Centara Hotels & Resorts' broader commitment to sustainable hospitality and social responsibility.
"This rooftop garden represents more than our commitment to sustainability - it reflects our belief in delivering quality with purpose," said Unnop Keawputtal, Executive Assistant Manager - Bangkok Convention Centre & Food & Beverage, Centara Grand at CentralWorld. "This summer, our guests can truly experience what it means to enjoy ingredients harvested the same day - straight from our rooftop garden in the heart of the city."
Looking ahead, the hotel plans to introduce a composting machine in the coming year to further streamline the conversion of food waste into organic fertiliser. This next step is expected to enhance soil fertility, reduce waste and maintenance costs, and support education in organic farming and sustainable resource management.
The initiative continues to grow as a model of environmental stewardship, fostering a greener future from the heart of Bangkok.