Day 5: Architects, Buildings and Spaces

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

The day began with a visit to the Architect 49 firm office, a prominent architectural firm known for its innovative designs and impactful projects. Arriving via Grab, we were welcomed with a warm welcome from the president and a presentation about VELAA and The Sindhorn Village architecture, which are two of their most prestigious projects from one of the architects that worked on it. VELAA is a luxurious residential complex, while The Sindhorn Village is an extensive urban development that integrates green spaces with modern living.

The presentation was both informative and inspiring, shedding light on the design philosophies and technical intricacies behind these projects. We learned that Architect 49 recently moved to a new office, migrating from their old premises. This transition was explained in detail, emphasizing how the new space better accommodates their creative processes and collaborative work culture.

A tour of the office followed, where we were introduced to various models of their projects. The meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail in these models were remarkable, providing a tangible sense of the firm's architectural vision.

The office itself, with its open-plan layout and contemporary design, reflected the firm's commitment to fostering an environment conducive to creativity and innovation.

They even have a room dedicated to the progress of their buildings, crating a wall of 3d models, and showcasing of colors of which their projects that have been done in Bangkok.

The president had even invited us into his office, showcasing his own model of his home that had won awards due to its sustainability and ingenuity

Our next destination was Central Embassy which we travelled through BTS and walking, a luxury shopping mall that stands as a testament to modern architectural excellence. The mall's sleek, curvilinear façade is an iconic feature of Bangkok's skyline. We entered Central Embassy to experience the Daniel Arsham 2024 exhibition. Arsham's work, known for blending art, architecture, and design, was showcased in a way that challenged our perceptions of space and time.

Following the exhibition, we visited the Open House Bookstore, an architectural marvel in itself. The bookstore's design is a harmonious blend of retail and communal spaces, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. We had lunch at Kub Pra Kub Pro, a restaurant within Central Embassy, where the interior design complemented the culinary experience, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

We then walked to Park Ventures, an office complex renowned for its sustainable design and innovative architecture. Although we only viewed the exterior, it was enough to appreciate the building's sleek lines and modern aesthetic. The building's integration of green spaces and environmentally-friendly features highlighted the growing importance of sustainability in urban architecture.

Continuing our architectural exploration, we walked to Krungsri Ploenchit Tower and Park Hyatt Bangkok. Both buildings, with their striking exteriors, exemplify the dynamic architectural landscape of Bangkok. The Krungsri Ploenchit Tower's façade, with its reflective glass and geometric patterns, contrasts beautifully with the sophisticated elegance of the Park Hyatt Bangkok.

Our next stop was the Rosewood Hotel, connected to the BTS walkway. The hotel's exterior is a blend of traditional and contemporary design elements, creating a unique and inviting visual appeal. The seamless integration with the BTS walkway highlights the importance of accessibility and connectivity in urban planning.

We then made our way to Phloet Chin Station, taking a brief moment to admire the Noble Ploenchit. This residential complex is a prime example of modern urban living, combining luxury with convenience. The architecture is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, offering a glimpse into the future of residential design in Bangkok.

Our journey continued to MahaNakhon, one of Bangkok's most iconic skyscrapers. The building's pixelated façade is a bold statement in contemporary architecture, symbolizing the city's rapid growth and modernization. We took a brief tea break here, soaking in the stunning views and reflecting on the architectural wonders we had seen so far.

The final stop of the day was Icon-Siam, a massive mixed-use development that includes retail, dining, and entertainment spaces. We explored the interior, marveling at the intricate design elements and the harmonious blend of traditional and modern influences. The rooftop offered breathtaking views of the city, a fitting end to our architectural journey. Dinner at the food court was a delightful experience, with a diverse range of culinary offerings reflecting Bangkok's vibrant food culture.

As we were about to leave, we realized we had lost track of each other. The enormity of Icon-Siam and the multitude of attractions made it easy to get separated. Eventually, we regrouped and took the BTS back to our hotel, reflecting on the day's experiences and the architectural marvels we had encountered.

Observations of Architecture

Throughout the day, we immersed ourselves in Bangkok's vibrant and evolving urban landscape, observing a wide array of architectural designs and elements. The buildings we visited reflected a harmonious blend of traditional and modern design principles, underscoring the city's rich cultural heritage and its embrace of contemporary aesthetics. This essay delves into our observations, examining the architectural marvels that define Bangkok, their impact on urban spaces, and the interplay between the public and private realms.

The Architect 49 office exemplifies a modern workspace designed to foster creativity and collaboration. Open-plan layouts, ample natural light, and the use of sustainable materials underscore the firm's commitment to both functionality and environmental responsibility. The presentations on VELAA and The Sindhorn Village highlighted the significance of integrating green spaces into urban developments, promoting a harmonious balance between built environments and nature. Central Embassy and Icon-Siam, two luxury shopping malls, exemplify the role of commercial architecture in shaping urban experiences. Their innovative designs not only cater to retail needs but also create vibrant communal spaces that enhance social interactions. The integration of art, as seen in the Daniel Arsham exhibition, further emphasizes the intersection of architecture and cultural expression.

Urban spaces such as Park Ventures and the Rosewood Hotel underscore the importance of accessibility and connectivity in urban planning. Their seamless integration with public transport systems, like the BTS walkway, highlights the need for efficient and sustainable mobility solutions in densely populated cities. Exterior views of buildings like Krungsri Ploenchit Tower, Park Hyatt Bangkok, and MahaNakhon offer insights into the architectural diversity of Bangkok. Each building, with its unique design elements, contributes to the city's distinctive skyline. The pixelated façade of MahaNakhon, in particular, stands out as a bold statement in contemporary architecture, symbolizing Bangkok's rapid growth and modernization.

Our architectural journey also highlighted the interplay between public and private realms. Residential complexes like Noble Ploenchit demonstrate the integration of luxury living with urban convenience, offering residents a blend of privacy and accessibility. The design of these spaces prioritizes both aesthetic appeal and functional living, catering to the needs of modern urban dwellers. Public spaces, such as those within Icon-Siam, play a crucial role in fostering community interactions. The food court, with its diverse culinary offerings, serves as a communal hub where people from different walks of life can come together. This blend of public and private realms is essential in creating vibrant and inclusive urban environments.

Reflecting on the day's experiences, it became evident that architecture is more than just the design of buildings; it is a reflection of societal values, cultural heritage, and technological advancements. The architectural marvels we encountered in Bangkok showcased a city that is both rooted in tradition and forward-looking. The emphasis on sustainability, as seen in the designs of Park Ventures and Architect 49's projects, highlights the growing awareness of environmental responsibility in architectural practices. The integration of green spaces and sustainable materials in urban developments is a testament to the evolving priorities in modern architecture. The interplay between traditional and modern design elements, as observed in buildings like the Rosewood Hotel and Central Embassy, underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage while embracing contemporary aesthetics. This balance is crucial in maintaining a city's unique identity while adapting to changing times. The architectural journey through Bangkok also emphasized the significance of creating inclusive and accessible urban spaces. The seamless integration of buildings with public transport systems and the creation of vibrant communal spaces reflect a commitment to enhancing the quality of urban life.