THE Thai Government has splashed out more than $100 million for a plain-looking house in London, which will be used as its ambassador's residence.
It beat off competition from an Asian multinational firm, a Hollywood superstar and a German buyer to sign a deal last week.
Despite extensive refurbishment, there is sure to be concern in Bangkok after the authorities paid out so much money for such a nondescript property.
Developer John Hunter said a figure of close to GBP9 million (HK$106 million) was paid for the 10,000-square-foot house in Tregunter Road.
According to Mr Hunter, rock and film stars, foreign royalty and other celebrities viewed the house.
The house is in Chelsea. Mr Hunter's company, Northacre, renovated two houses facing each other and constructed an underground link.