Bangkok Day 3: The Public Square

Nur Irdina Lee Chun Ling GS67529
Jul 12, 2024
4 min read

Bangkok Day 3: The Public Square

It was 9 AM, and with the help of a classmate's friend, we had organized a class trip to Celus Hotel, one of the newer boutique hotels in Bangkok. Our mode of transport for the day was the BTS, which required us to walk from our hotel after another quick breakfast from 7 Eleven. After crossing a few streets, we reached our destination. The Celus Hotel was located opposite some commercial shops and within walking distance from the BTS, making it a conveniently walkable residence. We realized halfway through our walk that we were on the wrong side of the road. Since it was too dangerous to jaywalk, unlike in Malaysia, we turned back and crossed the proper crosswalk towards the residential building.

From the entrance, I noticed it was lush with greenery, as is common in Bangkok's urban landscaping. The integration of urban placemaking and plants creates a welcoming and refreshing atmosphere. The entrance was directly accessed from the ingress area, reflecting a clean and high-end vibe, characteristic of this boutique hotel. An automated car park and a charging unit next to it for residents’ convenience highlighted the hotel's commitment to modern amenities and sustainability.

We met with the building manager, who guided us and explained the building's features. Our first stop was the facility floor where most community activities are located. The first was on the 31st floor, which houses a floating pool, spa, sauna room, and lounge pods, providing a cooling yet private space within the city. The rooms, created using mesh steel, frame the nearby Hilton tower in one view, blending modern design with urban practicality.

On a slightly higher floor, the facility provided a gym and yoga room for residents' use. There was also a business lounge that opens for meetings and business purposes, offering a full view of the city. This blend of wellness, business, and leisure facilities within the hotel creates a comprehensive living environment, catering to various needs and preferences of the residents.

The hotel also features two roof gardens: one at a deck level and one on the roof floor, where a rooftop bar and parties occur during the night. Access to the rooftop garden required traveling to the 41st floor and then walking up two sets of staircases, providing security and privacy in an elegant manner.

Next, we toured the units, which came in three types, each designed to maximize space, views, and built-in furniture. The most expensive and highest unit was the penthouse, which had been transformed into the developer's office. The attention to detail in maximizing space and providing high-quality furnishings was evident, showcasing the hotel's commitment to luxury and functionality. We took a group photo with our guide as a token of gratitude and memory.

After finishing the visit and giving a gift to the building manager, we ventured out for lunch and headed back to Asoke’s Terminal 21. The food court, though especially crowded, led to us being separated from the guys. After lunch, we indulged in a quick dessert at After You, tasting the original Thai flavor and mango flavor. The dessert experience was a delightful exploration of local flavors, adding to our cultural immersion.

From there, we headed to Siam Square. Due to the fruit festival on that day, the courtyard was decorated with statues and decorations, and the wide walkways were lively and crowded. The festive atmosphere added vibrancy to the square, making our visit more enjoyable.

Walking to the entrance, we noticed a plaque dedicated to the imperial princess who had officially opened Siam Square. Entering it, the high ceiling was the first thing to notice. Inside, it felt classy and elegant, with greenery and gathering decorations contrasting with the typical mall design. This design choice created a unique shopping experience, blending luxury with nature.

From there, we walked out to the famous square, which unfortunately was the shopping street’s off-work day. Still, we had fun observing the sights of one of Bangkok's more successful urban public spaces, with its wide walkways, clear directions, and placemaking efforts. The layout and design of Siam Square are a testament to effective urban planning, fostering a sense of community and accessibility.

Before long, we were tuckered out for the day and headed back to the hotel for dinner nearby, ending our day.

Observations of Architecture

Reflecting on the day, the Celus Hotel stands out as a prime example of modern urban architecture that seamlessly integrates luxury, sustainability, and practicality. The lush greenery at the entrance is not just an aesthetic choice but also a nod to sustainable urban design, promoting environmental consciousness in a bustling city. The automated car park and charging unit further emphasize this commitment to modernity and sustainability.

The design of the facilities within the hotel, from the floating pool to the gym and business lounge, reflects a thoughtful approach to maximizing utility and comfort for the residents. The use of mesh steel in the rooms not only provides structural integrity but also offers unique views of the city, blending functionality with artistic design.

The rooftop gardens and bar, accessible through a secure and private route, highlight the importance of creating spaces that offer both communal and private experiences. This duality in design caters to diverse resident needs, ensuring a versatile living environment.

The visit to Siam Square provided insights into effective urban public space design. The wide walkways, clear directions, and thoughtful placemaking efforts contribute to a vibrant and accessible community space. The contrast between the high-ceilinged, elegant interior and the lively, festive exterior during the fruit festival showcases the versatility and adaptability of urban spaces to different events and activities.

In conclusion, the architectural and urban planning elements observed during our visit to Celus Hotel and Siam Square reflect a harmonious blend of modernity, sustainability, and community-focused design. These elements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of these spaces but also contribute to their functionality and livability, making them exemplary models for future urban developments.