This is a wonderful little guesthouse! I don't know if I would have survived Bangkok in August without the calm reprieve of Baan Chantra to go home to every night. The atmosphere is lovely (not fancy, but certainly beautiful, CLEAN, and interesting), with exposed dark wood, bamboo detailing, soothing music, the sound of water in the background, and a layout that makes you feel as if you are indeed inside somebody's beautiful old home (you take your shoes off once you pass the lobby). I shared a room with my friend, and the room was equipped with a large bathroom, clean stand-up shower, AC, and private screened-in terrace, where we dried our sweaty clothes. There was a guard outside the guesthouse 24 hours a day, and although it probably wasn't necessary (the neighborhood is fine), it was nice to come home to each night. There is internet in the breakfast room, and the location is incredibly good (less than a 5 minute walk to the famous Khao San).
The woman at the desk was the owner. She could not have been nicer, and she offered great (solicited) suggestions regarding what we should do with our fews days in Bangkok. She speaks fantastic English, took our breakfast orders the night before, helped us make hotel reservations in the islands, and was accomodating in every way. She even sent us an email afterwards, wishing us a good stay in Koh Samui, and thanking us for our visit to Baan Chantra.
All things considered, Bangkok is an exceptionally busy, bustling city, and with only a few days to explore it, the experience can be overwhelming. Baan Chantra had a very calming, peaceful air about it, and we loved coming back there each night. I would recommend this place to anybody, backpackers and fancier travellers, alike.