Thailand Architecture in Steel 3 by Li-Zenn Publishing

THAILAND ARCHITECTURE IN STEEL

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 1

11/24/14 7:26 AM

TINMAN HOUSE

JUNSEKINO ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN The owner’s brief requested a house that has a sense of ‘living in storage’. The main component used to achieve this is the steel structure. Through the material details expressed within space and form, the house provides an experience of living in a library and a shed.

Tinman house consists of three levels that make full usage of the land area. Each level of the house came directly from the owner’s brief. Starting at the ground level is the carport located in the front zone, raised one meter on the first floor is space for all common functions such as the living, dining, kitchen, and home theatre room.

The second floor is where the semi-private zone is located. On this floor is the highlight of the house, the owner’s library and study. As much of the owner’s time is spent working on his research, the library is designed as the center of the house.

The library connects to the upper master bedroom on the third floor with a spiral staircase. Through the double height space is a transparent high wall of bookshelves that transform into a wardrobe in the master bedroom’s walk-in closet area on the upper level. On the third floor there are also two more children’s bedrooms.

The roof structure is lifted and detached from the main structure providing an extended space for a roof deck for the family to relax during their leisure time.

Location Huay Kwang, Bangkok 8

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 8-9

Client Vazzan Tirangkura

Structural Engineer Nares Kamplaew

Area 415 sq. m.

Year 2014 9

11/24/14 7:27 AM

TINMAN HOUSE

JUNSEKINO ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN The owner’s brief requested a house that has a sense of ‘living in storage’. The main component used to achieve this is the steel structure. Through the material details expressed within space and form, the house provides an experience of living in a library and a shed.

Tinman house consists of three levels that make full usage of the land area. Each level of the house came directly from the owner’s brief. Starting at the ground level is the carport located in the front zone, raised one meter on the first floor is space for all common functions such as the living, dining, kitchen, and home theatre room.

The second floor is where the semi-private zone is located. On this floor is the highlight of the house, the owner’s library and study. As much of the owner’s time is spent working on his research, the library is designed as the center of the house.

The library connects to the upper master bedroom on the third floor with a spiral staircase. Through the double height space is a transparent high wall of bookshelves that transform into a wardrobe in the master bedroom’s walk-in closet area on the upper level. On the third floor there are also two more children’s bedrooms.

The roof structure is lifted and detached from the main structure providing an extended space for a roof deck for the family to relax during their leisure time.

Location Huay Kwang, Bangkok 8

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 8-9

Client Vazzan Tirangkura

Structural Engineer Nares Kamplaew

Area 415 sq. m.

Year 2014 9

11/24/14 7:27 AM

1

1

2

12

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 12-13

2

The primary colors in living area contrast with the black exterior A semi-private zone

13

11/24/14 7:27 AM

1

1

2

12

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 12-13

2

The primary colors in living area contrast with the black exterior A semi-private zone

13

11/24/14 7:27 AM

BAAN DAMNOEN MAGLA

Baan Damnoen is situated on a corner at the intersection of two canals near the Floating Market in Damnoen Saduak, Ratchaburi - one hour’s drive from Bangkok.

The house is a vacation house for a family who want to spend their holidays in the natural setting that they had grown up with. The design was influenced by the observation of local construction, the richness of wood texture, the interplay of light and shadow, the tectonic structure of stacked boat storage on the canals, along with concerns of environmental impact in a tropical climate.

The house layout is parallel to the main canal providing all the rooms with a panoramic view to the canal on one side and the fruit orchards on the other side. The layout also orientates north-south to allow through ventilation. The mass breaks into two volumes with the in-between space functioning as a main entrance and multipurpose space for semi outdoor activities. This in-between space allows the activities to flow from outdoor to indoor and vice versa. The daytime living spaces are on the lower level and nighttime bedrooms are on the second floor reflecting the traditional technique to shield the heat from the sun during daytime activities.

On the canal side is situated a large terrace elevated 1 meter above the ground as a semi-outdoor space. The terrace space is enclosed with a wooden fin wall and folding doors to give security to the inhabitants while enjoying the outdoor lifestyle resembling a traditional Thai house.

As the existing wooden house on the site was in ruin, the client decided to demolish and utilize the remaining wood for the new house. In combination with wood, the house exploits contemporary materials such as steel and concrete to substitute and extend the limits of a traditional wooden structure. The construction materials are local materials and the construction methods are inspired from traditional wooden construction. Concrete columns lift the wooden floor up 1.5 meters to allow a light touch on the ground and to protect from flooding and animals. Steel beams are used instead of concrete beams to achieve a lightness of structure and to reflect the traditional wooden construction method. The wood components from the existing house and new wood are re-organized to fit into the concrete and steel structure to shape the interior space. The different type, age and color of the wood combine to impart the space with textural richness. The roof material uses domestically produced terracotta tiles. The steel beams allow the roof to cantilever 2 meters to protect from strong sunlight and rain on the wall surfaces. All materials except the concrete columns are recyclable.

In contrast to artificial light and air conditioning the design uses passive design techniques as a main strategy. The house is enclosed with vertical wooden slats that loosely define the interior space to allow natural ventilation and form a protective enclosure for security. The wood enclosure is constructed to be seen from both sides in a single execution, as is common in Thai traditional construction. From the outside the surfaces appear solid but the interior, defined by the surface of the wood structural details, looks lighter and transparent. The wood enclosure is a device to filter the light to create various tones of shadow to the space. As in a traditional Thai lifestyle the different tones of shadow determine different functions and activities within the house.

Location Damnoen Saduak, Ratchaburi 16

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 16-17

Client Usawadee Srisuchart

Structural Engineer Powerline Engineering

Area 380 sq. m.

Year 2009 17

11/24/14 7:28 AM

BAAN DAMNOEN MAGLA

Baan Damnoen is situated on a corner at the intersection of two canals near the Floating Market in Damnoen Saduak, Ratchaburi - one hour’s drive from Bangkok.

The house is a vacation house for a family who want to spend their holidays in the natural setting that they had grown up with. The design was influenced by the observation of local construction, the richness of wood texture, the interplay of light and shadow, the tectonic structure of stacked boat storage on the canals, along with concerns of environmental impact in a tropical climate.

The house layout is parallel to the main canal providing all the rooms with a panoramic view to the canal on one side and the fruit orchards on the other side. The layout also orientates north-south to allow through ventilation. The mass breaks into two volumes with the in-between space functioning as a main entrance and multipurpose space for semi outdoor activities. This in-between space allows the activities to flow from outdoor to indoor and vice versa. The daytime living spaces are on the lower level and nighttime bedrooms are on the second floor reflecting the traditional technique to shield the heat from the sun during daytime activities.

On the canal side is situated a large terrace elevated 1 meter above the ground as a semi-outdoor space. The terrace space is enclosed with a wooden fin wall and folding doors to give security to the inhabitants while enjoying the outdoor lifestyle resembling a traditional Thai house.

As the existing wooden house on the site was in ruin, the client decided to demolish and utilize the remaining wood for the new house. In combination with wood, the house exploits contemporary materials such as steel and concrete to substitute and extend the limits of a traditional wooden structure. The construction materials are local materials and the construction methods are inspired from traditional wooden construction. Concrete columns lift the wooden floor up 1.5 meters to allow a light touch on the ground and to protect from flooding and animals. Steel beams are used instead of concrete beams to achieve a lightness of structure and to reflect the traditional wooden construction method. The wood components from the existing house and new wood are re-organized to fit into the concrete and steel structure to shape the interior space. The different type, age and color of the wood combine to impart the space with textural richness. The roof material uses domestically produced terracotta tiles. The steel beams allow the roof to cantilever 2 meters to protect from strong sunlight and rain on the wall surfaces. All materials except the concrete columns are recyclable.

In contrast to artificial light and air conditioning the design uses passive design techniques as a main strategy. The house is enclosed with vertical wooden slats that loosely define the interior space to allow natural ventilation and form a protective enclosure for security. The wood enclosure is constructed to be seen from both sides in a single execution, as is common in Thai traditional construction. From the outside the surfaces appear solid but the interior, defined by the surface of the wood structural details, looks lighter and transparent. The wood enclosure is a device to filter the light to create various tones of shadow to the space. As in a traditional Thai lifestyle the different tones of shadow determine different functions and activities within the house.

Location Damnoen Saduak, Ratchaburi 16

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 16-17

Client Usawadee Srisuchart

Structural Engineer Powerline Engineering

Area 380 sq. m.

Year 2009 17

11/24/14 7:28 AM

First Floor Plan

Layout

Second Floor Plan

Elevation

Section

18

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 18-19

19

11/24/14 7:28 AM

First Floor Plan

Layout

Second Floor Plan

Elevation

Section

18

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 18-19

19

11/24/14 7:28 AM

BAAN MOUNT KAL D_KWA

This home features a relaxing atmosphere surrounded by a warm, natural environment only a few minutes drive from the center of Chiang Mai. The modest, triangle shaped lot challenged the designers to create a modern home that keeps the natural environment intact.

The building has been separated into two parts; a private area accommodating the office, kitchen, bedroom and closet, and a second more public area with a living room and open library that connects to a wide balcony around the house.

Steel, wood and glass have been used as the main components. Steel H beams have been used for the main structure of the building because of the unique possibilities of this construction technique. The steel structural parts use factory designed connections that emphasize the stable character of architecture. The solid elements of the architecture are formed using concrete walls with a gloss finish.

The design embraces the truth of the materials, with very little decoration, in order to match the natural context of the site. The climate is that of a forest and mountain which creates high humidity. This makes it important to adopt a technique that addresses the steel’s corrosion. The architect has resolved this problem by using rust as part of the building’s aesthetic. The rust becomes a highlight of the building, and has influenced the material selection of other building components. This has resulted in an aesthetic that harmonizes with the environment when viewing into the house from outside and when inside looking out.

Location Mueang, Chiang Mai

24

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 24-25

Client Kal Wilaimethanan

Structural Engineer Chat Gen Construction & Design

Area 75 sq. m.

Year 2013 25

11/24/14 7:28 AM

BAAN MOUNT KAL D_KWA

This home features a relaxing atmosphere surrounded by a warm, natural environment only a few minutes drive from the center of Chiang Mai. The modest, triangle shaped lot challenged the designers to create a modern home that keeps the natural environment intact.

The building has been separated into two parts; a private area accommodating the office, kitchen, bedroom and closet, and a second more public area with a living room and open library that connects to a wide balcony around the house.

Steel, wood and glass have been used as the main components. Steel H beams have been used for the main structure of the building because of the unique possibilities of this construction technique. The steel structural parts use factory designed connections that emphasize the stable character of architecture. The solid elements of the architecture are formed using concrete walls with a gloss finish.

The design embraces the truth of the materials, with very little decoration, in order to match the natural context of the site. The climate is that of a forest and mountain which creates high humidity. This makes it important to adopt a technique that addresses the steel’s corrosion. The architect has resolved this problem by using rust as part of the building’s aesthetic. The rust becomes a highlight of the building, and has influenced the material selection of other building components. This has resulted in an aesthetic that harmonizes with the environment when viewing into the house from outside and when inside looking out.

Location Mueang, Chiang Mai

24

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 24-25

Client Kal Wilaimethanan

Structural Engineer Chat Gen Construction & Design

Area 75 sq. m.

Year 2013 25

11/24/14 7:28 AM

Inner Circulation

28

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 28-29

29

11/24/14 7:29 AM

Inner Circulation

28

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 28-29

29

11/24/14 7:29 AM

HOUSE NO.3 STUDIO MW

Rachaprasong Skylink junction is the starting point of a new elevated walkway route which links two commercial districts. The project involved creating new junction space by renovating a section of the existing elevated walkway which provides access to and from the Skytrain system. The project consisted of two parts; the junction area, and the bridge link area.

The design concept of the junction area not only re-shaped and widened the existing walkway to be a functional junction area but also acted to create a sophisticated ambience with improved circulation flows for the surrounding office and commercial buildings. This area will become the new transition space and the new meeting point of the district.

The second part, the bridge link area, connects from the newly developed junction area to a high-end retail and commercial building to act as the entrance to the Skylink project. The walkway’s steel roof structure was fabricated to smoothly curve upwards creating a high soffit space. This effect not only creates a welcoming entrance space but also generates a smooth continuity from the junction to the bridge link area.

A steel structure was selected for this project for 3 key reasons. Firstly, to minimize the depth of the roof structure in relation to the width of the walkway’s span. Secondly, to aesthetically differentiate the development from other parts of the skywalk. This was achieved by the use of a filleted corner steel member that is continuous between the floor structure and the roof structure. These steel members act as the main spine of the entire area. Thirdly, because of a limited construction period. As the walkway was operational during the day safety protection needed to be provided during that period. This restricted the main construction period to night time. As such all steel members were pre-fabricated in a factory then installed on site at night.

Location Prawet, Bangkok

32

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 32-33

Client Woranol Sattayavinij

Structural Engineer -

Area 400 sq. m.

Year 2014 33

11/24/14 7:29 AM

HOUSE NO.3 STUDIO MW

Rachaprasong Skylink junction is the starting point of a new elevated walkway route which links two commercial districts. The project involved creating new junction space by renovating a section of the existing elevated walkway which provides access to and from the Skytrain system. The project consisted of two parts; the junction area, and the bridge link area.

The design concept of the junction area not only re-shaped and widened the existing walkway to be a functional junction area but also acted to create a sophisticated ambience with improved circulation flows for the surrounding office and commercial buildings. This area will become the new transition space and the new meeting point of the district.

The second part, the bridge link area, connects from the newly developed junction area to a high-end retail and commercial building to act as the entrance to the Skylink project. The walkway’s steel roof structure was fabricated to smoothly curve upwards creating a high soffit space. This effect not only creates a welcoming entrance space but also generates a smooth continuity from the junction to the bridge link area.

A steel structure was selected for this project for 3 key reasons. Firstly, to minimize the depth of the roof structure in relation to the width of the walkway’s span. Secondly, to aesthetically differentiate the development from other parts of the skywalk. This was achieved by the use of a filleted corner steel member that is continuous between the floor structure and the roof structure. These steel members act as the main spine of the entire area. Thirdly, because of a limited construction period. As the walkway was operational during the day safety protection needed to be provided during that period. This restricted the main construction period to night time. As such all steel members were pre-fabricated in a factory then installed on site at night.

Location Prawet, Bangkok

32

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 32-33

Client Woranol Sattayavinij

Structural Engineer -

Area 400 sq. m.

Year 2014 33

11/24/14 7:29 AM

First Floor Plan

Second Floor Plan

Elevation

34

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 34-35

35

11/24/14 7:29 AM

First Floor Plan

Second Floor Plan

Elevation

34

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 34-35

35

11/24/14 7:29 AM

LENZ RESIDENCE SODA (THAILAND)

Architecturally, the design concept was drawn from the site and situation. Located on the edge of the Loch Palm reservoir and golf course, the site is positioned between two geometrically flat, level surfaces and is an edge site – between water and earth. A moment of tension occurs where the two meet – before the wind and metaphysical forces create a ‘fold’ in space. The structure is inspired by, and is seamlessly fused with the landscape - rather than an unyielding, dispassionate object forced into its surroundings.

The design is a ‘topographical dialogue’, a collision between the flat placid reservoir and the flat golfing fairways of green grass resulting in an origami like form of folding planes. There are no windows, only spaces between folded massing. The angular lines carry the eye through the internal spaces, across the lake and beyond to the distant Red mountains beyond the lake.

To accomplish the unique architectural angular planes, surface kinetic, cantilevered roofs and long spans, a steel truss structural system was chosen both for the long span capabilities and light weight construction. Seventy-five metric tons of mild steel wide flange sections, rafters and purlins were fabricated into four main triangular wall trusses which cantilever outwards and touch the earth at only four points.

Triangular roof trusses brace the outward thrust of the four main wall trusses. All steel trusses were fabricated on the ground and craned into place. Steel rafters and purlins provide anchoring for the exterior cladding and interior finishes.

The plan is essentially three triangles joined at the center, creating four triangulated courtyards at the perimeter. The house is split-level creating terraced internal spaces and an infinity edged pool.

The angular roof shapes form dramatic interior spaces and a tropical living style with all internal rooms open-able to the garden and pool terraces. The living room and master bedroom are placed at the two lake corners; both have front terraces and project over the water’s edge. The second bedroom also fronts the pool terrace.

The third bedroom is within a dynamic triangulated and sky-lit space and with views of the lake. The upper level fourth bedroom has views over the angular roof to the lake and mountains. A wine cellar, gym and mechanical spaces are located on the lower level.

The exterior is clad in kiln fired cement shakes. Large pivoting doors and windows open entirely to the lake and are clear tempered glass in a powder coat finish aluminum frame. The saltwater pools are hand cast Thai tiles trimmed in polished black stone. The interiors are fitted with teak paneled cabinets and doors, Shiva black granite tops and tile flooring. State of the art electrical and mechanical systems are provided and lighting systems are automated.

Location Kathu, Phuket

40

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 40-41

Client Christopher Lenz

Structural Engineer Steelhouse Construction

Area 790 sq. m.

Year 2014 41

11/24/14 7:30 AM

LENZ RESIDENCE SODA (THAILAND)

Architecturally, the design concept was drawn from the site and situation. Located on the edge of the Loch Palm reservoir and golf course, the site is positioned between two geometrically flat, level surfaces and is an edge site – between water and earth. A moment of tension occurs where the two meet – before the wind and metaphysical forces create a ‘fold’ in space. The structure is inspired by, and is seamlessly fused with the landscape - rather than an unyielding, dispassionate object forced into its surroundings.

The design is a ‘topographical dialogue’, a collision between the flat placid reservoir and the flat golfing fairways of green grass resulting in an origami like form of folding planes. There are no windows, only spaces between folded massing. The angular lines carry the eye through the internal spaces, across the lake and beyond to the distant Red mountains beyond the lake.

To accomplish the unique architectural angular planes, surface kinetic, cantilevered roofs and long spans, a steel truss structural system was chosen both for the long span capabilities and light weight construction. Seventy-five metric tons of mild steel wide flange sections, rafters and purlins were fabricated into four main triangular wall trusses which cantilever outwards and touch the earth at only four points.

Triangular roof trusses brace the outward thrust of the four main wall trusses. All steel trusses were fabricated on the ground and craned into place. Steel rafters and purlins provide anchoring for the exterior cladding and interior finishes.

The plan is essentially three triangles joined at the center, creating four triangulated courtyards at the perimeter. The house is split-level creating terraced internal spaces and an infinity edged pool.

The angular roof shapes form dramatic interior spaces and a tropical living style with all internal rooms open-able to the garden and pool terraces. The living room and master bedroom are placed at the two lake corners; both have front terraces and project over the water’s edge. The second bedroom also fronts the pool terrace.

The third bedroom is within a dynamic triangulated and sky-lit space and with views of the lake. The upper level fourth bedroom has views over the angular roof to the lake and mountains. A wine cellar, gym and mechanical spaces are located on the lower level.

The exterior is clad in kiln fired cement shakes. Large pivoting doors and windows open entirely to the lake and are clear tempered glass in a powder coat finish aluminum frame. The saltwater pools are hand cast Thai tiles trimmed in polished black stone. The interiors are fitted with teak paneled cabinets and doors, Shiva black granite tops and tile flooring. State of the art electrical and mechanical systems are provided and lighting systems are automated.

Location Kathu, Phuket

40

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 40-41

Client Christopher Lenz

Structural Engineer Steelhouse Construction

Area 790 sq. m.

Year 2014 41

11/24/14 7:30 AM

First Floor Plan Second Floor Plan

Roof Floor Plan

Elevation

42

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 42-43

43

11/24/14 7:30 AM

First Floor Plan Second Floor Plan

Roof Floor Plan

Elevation

42

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 42-43

43

11/24/14 7:30 AM

BAAN CHAIYOCHAIYA KYAINUICHAN

Patana Gallery is a gathering space for architects, designers, and artists at Rangsit University, 30 minutes north of Bangkok. This 3-story building occupies a 550 square-meter footprint in front of the original 9-story Art & Design, Architecture, and Digital Art building on campus and is directly connected on the first and third floors. Because Patana Gallery acts as a main artery to existing classrooms and lecture halls, ideas of pedestrian movement and environmental interaction directed our design process. Formally, the building is a large, graphic box; a container for the work and activities of the students. A spacious outdoor walkway cuts through the building, serving as a main artery for students, instructors, staff, and visitors. This walkway is surrounded by glass-enclosed gallery spaces (as well as other informal gathering spaces) so the pedestrian experience is both active and aesthetic. The building is equally proportioned between conditioned space and un-conditioned shelter - gathering natural breezes and providing shade was a primary design priority since we wanted the students to spend their free time within the public spaces of the building.

These ideas of movement, ventilation, and spatial fluidity also informed our choice of materials. A skin of double-layered powder coated expanded steel mesh lightly envelopes the building. The screen is black on one side, and white on the other exaggerating the resulting moirĂŠ pattern that dances and walks with you as you move through the space. Depending on your relationship to the building (whether at ground level, above, direct or diagonally) this skin takes on varying levels of translucency and color-- at times black, at times, white, at times, grey.

The steel structure was chosen primarily for two reasons-- swift construction (total construction time was 8 months, per request of the client) and visual slenderness.

All walls are framed with lightweight steel members to further reduce the dead loads on the structure. The steel wide flange structure is regular and rhythmic, reinforcing this idea of a simple container. The lateral brace frames are hidden within the walls, except at the staircase, the single diagonal line in the building draws the main circulation up and down past the gallery spaces. Here the cross bracing is moved to the edge of the building skin and is configured to act also as the stair stringer.

Mid span joints at columns were unavoidable given the floor spacing of the existing building. Rather than wasting material we used the joints as an opportunity to create small niches at eye level on the second floor.

Since the building is much lower than its neighbors, the roof is considered as a fifth façade and designed to express its own visual character. Mechanical and plumbing systems were located elsewhere within the building so that roof could house a generous garden of wild, indigenous grasses which peek over the posttensioned concrete slab. In the spring, on a breezy day, flowers fall from the roof, and in the summer the sprinklers create the feeling of rain.

Location Chaiya, Surat Thani

48

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 48-49

Client Apinan Makchuay

Structural Engineer Apinan Makchuay

Area 420 sq.m.

Year 2010 49

11/24/14 7:31 AM

BAAN CHAIYOCHAIYA KYAINUICHAN

Patana Gallery is a gathering space for architects, designers, and artists at Rangsit University, 30 minutes north of Bangkok. This 3-story building occupies a 550 square-meter footprint in front of the original 9-story Art & Design, Architecture, and Digital Art building on campus and is directly connected on the first and third floors. Because Patana Gallery acts as a main artery to existing classrooms and lecture halls, ideas of pedestrian movement and environmental interaction directed our design process. Formally, the building is a large, graphic box; a container for the work and activities of the students. A spacious outdoor walkway cuts through the building, serving as a main artery for students, instructors, staff, and visitors. This walkway is surrounded by glass-enclosed gallery spaces (as well as other informal gathering spaces) so the pedestrian experience is both active and aesthetic. The building is equally proportioned between conditioned space and un-conditioned shelter - gathering natural breezes and providing shade was a primary design priority since we wanted the students to spend their free time within the public spaces of the building.

These ideas of movement, ventilation, and spatial fluidity also informed our choice of materials. A skin of double-layered powder coated expanded steel mesh lightly envelopes the building. The screen is black on one side, and white on the other exaggerating the resulting moirĂŠ pattern that dances and walks with you as you move through the space. Depending on your relationship to the building (whether at ground level, above, direct or diagonally) this skin takes on varying levels of translucency and color-- at times black, at times, white, at times, grey.

The steel structure was chosen primarily for two reasons-- swift construction (total construction time was 8 months, per request of the client) and visual slenderness.

All walls are framed with lightweight steel members to further reduce the dead loads on the structure. The steel wide flange structure is regular and rhythmic, reinforcing this idea of a simple container. The lateral brace frames are hidden within the walls, except at the staircase, the single diagonal line in the building draws the main circulation up and down past the gallery spaces. Here the cross bracing is moved to the edge of the building skin and is configured to act also as the stair stringer.

Mid span joints at columns were unavoidable given the floor spacing of the existing building. Rather than wasting material we used the joints as an opportunity to create small niches at eye level on the second floor.

Since the building is much lower than its neighbors, the roof is considered as a fifth façade and designed to express its own visual character. Mechanical and plumbing systems were located elsewhere within the building so that roof could house a generous garden of wild, indigenous grasses which peek over the posttensioned concrete slab. In the spring, on a breezy day, flowers fall from the roof, and in the summer the sprinklers create the feeling of rain.

Location Chaiya, Surat Thani

48

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 48-49

Client Apinan Makchuay

Structural Engineer Apinan Makchuay

Area 420 sq.m.

Year 2010 49

11/24/14 7:31 AM

Layout

Eleveation

Ground Florr Plan

Section

50

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 50-51

51

11/24/14 7:31 AM

Layout

Eleveation

Ground Florr Plan

Section

50

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 50-51

51

11/24/14 7:31 AM

STILT HOUSE

RESEARCH STUDIO PANIN Severely affected by the flood that inundated Bangkok in 2011, the Panin family decided on a fresh start. They would dismantle their 40-year-old house and build their lives anew.

With five old banyan trees scattered around the site, the planning decision was simple. The house would be spaced among the trees. As the owners consist of two generations needing their own spaces that could be simultaneously separated and joined, the house is configured as two buildings enclosing a courtyard dominated by a giant banyan tree. They may fully appear at certain moments, and then slowly recede into the shade of the trees.

The decision to raise the house on stilts was simple. It allows the family to spend more time outdoors, with the trees as an essential part of their daily activities. Having been rid of most extraneous belongings after the flood, the family simply find delightfulness in feeling light and free. Small spatial units are connected by an open air ‘corridor’ that also acts as living space. Whether private or public, all activities would be interconnected and accommodated in these settings. All spatial units are cross ventilated and accessible through this living corridor, which can’t be closed off, gently enticing the inhabitants to come into contact with the natural settings around them. Going in and out, up and down, simply become one continuous action that is never clearly divided or distinguished.

And for all these reasons, the use of steel as both structure and decorative elements is not a choice, but a determination from the start. The house is not to be grown from the ground up, but needs to float as if it is placed lightly onto the ground.

To make the house light, open and free, steel structures hold each space in place while vaguely demarcating boundaries. Spaces, in this case, are both boundless and framed. Steel structure becomes both functional and symbolic, signifying the sense of lightness and freedom each and every space emits.

With its steel structure, the house is not stylized in a sense that signifies authorship. Simply looking familiar, yet different, the house is not an architectural revolution that offers a radical language. It simply acts as a background for habits and rituals. It does not come alive by the way it looks, but by the way its elements operate within the surrounding landscape. Space, light and air, three elements that seem so readily familiar that we often forget, work together to create a setting that rightly belongs to both the inhabitants and its location.

Location Bang Khen, Bangkok

56

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 56-57

Client Ornsiri & Anan Panin

Structural Engineer Peerapong Jaiputsa

Area 300 sq. m.

Year 2012 57

11/24/14 7:32 AM

STILT HOUSE

RESEARCH STUDIO PANIN Severely affected by the flood that inundated Bangkok in 2011, the Panin family decided on a fresh start. They would dismantle their 40-year-old house and build their lives anew.

With five old banyan trees scattered around the site, the planning decision was simple. The house would be spaced among the trees. As the owners consist of two generations needing their own spaces that could be simultaneously separated and joined, the house is configured as two buildings enclosing a courtyard dominated by a giant banyan tree. They may fully appear at certain moments, and then slowly recede into the shade of the trees.

The decision to raise the house on stilts was simple. It allows the family to spend more time outdoors, with the trees as an essential part of their daily activities. Having been rid of most extraneous belongings after the flood, the family simply find delightfulness in feeling light and free. Small spatial units are connected by an open air ‘corridor’ that also acts as living space. Whether private or public, all activities would be interconnected and accommodated in these settings. All spatial units are cross ventilated and accessible through this living corridor, which can’t be closed off, gently enticing the inhabitants to come into contact with the natural settings around them. Going in and out, up and down, simply become one continuous action that is never clearly divided or distinguished.

And for all these reasons, the use of steel as both structure and decorative elements is not a choice, but a determination from the start. The house is not to be grown from the ground up, but needs to float as if it is placed lightly onto the ground.

To make the house light, open and free, steel structures hold each space in place while vaguely demarcating boundaries. Spaces, in this case, are both boundless and framed. Steel structure becomes both functional and symbolic, signifying the sense of lightness and freedom each and every space emits.

With its steel structure, the house is not stylized in a sense that signifies authorship. Simply looking familiar, yet different, the house is not an architectural revolution that offers a radical language. It simply acts as a background for habits and rituals. It does not come alive by the way it looks, but by the way its elements operate within the surrounding landscape. Space, light and air, three elements that seem so readily familiar that we often forget, work together to create a setting that rightly belongs to both the inhabitants and its location.

Location Bang Khen, Bangkok

56

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 56-57

Client Ornsiri & Anan Panin

Structural Engineer Peerapong Jaiputsa

Area 300 sq. m.

Year 2012 57

11/24/14 7:32 AM

First Floor Plan

Elevation

58

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 58-59

Second Floor Plan

Section

59

11/24/14 7:32 AM

First Floor Plan

Elevation

58

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 58-59

Second Floor Plan

Section

59

11/24/14 7:32 AM

AFFECTED SHED THINGSMATTER

Affected Shed is a family house in a suburban community the homeowners once described as ‘without character’. It’s an ordinary program in an ordinary place, and the economics of the local building industry largely dictate an ordinary construction method. Nevertheless, the clients aspired to an extraordinary home to raise their family.

The house is split between two masonry structures. Main living spaces and bedrooms are in the larger structure, with service areas and guest bedrooms in the smaller one. A two-story blade of circulation slices through both buildings, pinning them together while cutting up the interior spaces of each. Placing the main entrance in the lesser building, and the staircase between the two buildings, ensures that residents often pass through the semi-outdoor middle zone, with its steel staircase and bright green floor.

Acute angles turn courts between the wings into visually interesting spaces, and interfere with rectangular room layouts to generate a zone of unusual nooks and crannies, with concealed cabinets and hiding spots meant to capture a child’s imagination. In the stair hall, fiber cement wall panels give way to a steel frame that holds louvers open in a dynamic pattern. From inside the hall, the louvers direct vision downwards to the garden and lawn. Viewed from other parts of the house and grounds, the wall of louvers is calculated to draw the viewer’s eye into the house itself, and away from the ordinary surroundings.

Expanded metal screens wrap parts of the upper floor, cultivating a patina of ever-changing shadows to animate the facades, and reducing the visual weight of plain cement walls. Windows are optimized for views not of the neighborhood outside, but of other parts of the house and garden. Walls of frosted polycarbonate flood both ends of the circulation zone with light, while reducing the outside world to a colorful, blurry abstraction.

Location Phra Khanong, Bangkok 64

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 64-65

Client Jittra Cheng

Structural Engineer Sumate Assavavimol

Area 340 sq. m.

Year 2013 65

11/24/14 7:33 AM

AFFECTED SHED THINGSMATTER

Affected Shed is a family house in a suburban community the homeowners once described as ‘without character’. It’s an ordinary program in an ordinary place, and the economics of the local building industry largely dictate an ordinary construction method. Nevertheless, the clients aspired to an extraordinary home to raise their family.

The house is split between two masonry structures. Main living spaces and bedrooms are in the larger structure, with service areas and guest bedrooms in the smaller one. A two-story blade of circulation slices through both buildings, pinning them together while cutting up the interior spaces of each. Placing the main entrance in the lesser building, and the staircase between the two buildings, ensures that residents often pass through the semi-outdoor middle zone, with its steel staircase and bright green floor.

Acute angles turn courts between the wings into visually interesting spaces, and interfere with rectangular room layouts to generate a zone of unusual nooks and crannies, with concealed cabinets and hiding spots meant to capture a child’s imagination. In the stair hall, fiber cement wall panels give way to a steel frame that holds louvers open in a dynamic pattern. From inside the hall, the louvers direct vision downwards to the garden and lawn. Viewed from other parts of the house and grounds, the wall of louvers is calculated to draw the viewer’s eye into the house itself, and away from the ordinary surroundings.

Expanded metal screens wrap parts of the upper floor, cultivating a patina of ever-changing shadows to animate the facades, and reducing the visual weight of plain cement walls. Windows are optimized for views not of the neighborhood outside, but of other parts of the house and garden. Walls of frosted polycarbonate flood both ends of the circulation zone with light, while reducing the outside world to a colorful, blurry abstraction.

Location Phra Khanong, Bangkok 64

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 64-65

Client Jittra Cheng

Structural Engineer Sumate Assavavimol

Area 340 sq. m.

Year 2013 65

11/24/14 7:33 AM

68

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 68-69

69

11/24/14 7:33 AM

68

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 68-69

69

11/24/14 7:33 AM

KENKOON FURNITURE GALLERY CHAT ARCHITECTS

Kenkoon is a well-known Thai manufacturer of beautiful modern outdoor furniture.

Their collections are minimalist, utilizing simple materials of teak wood, stainless steel, and canvas.

They acquired an old house situated in the middle of a lush garden, which they transformed into an ‘oasis’ gallery in the middle of Bangkok. The existing concrete building, a quirky early 70’s brutalist concrete house with a protruding front stair core, is sheathed in a facetted skin of recycled wood slats salvaged from old Kenkoon patio chairs (wooden slats make up the seat and backing). It forms a new architectural skin literally composed of the company’s own furniture components.

To reduce cost and promote local craftsmanship the façade is installed by the company’s own furniture craftsman. The design allows the woodworkers to share their ideas on form. Stainless steel cables are threaded through each wood slat creating a wooden veil-like facade. The facets of the façade are created so the tenon end of each wood slat can be exposed and celebrated, showing that this unique architectural façade was once a piece of the company’s own joinery furniture. The result is a facetted façade with light filtering lines inspired by the leafy strips of the palm tree branches on site.

Another major component is the sidewalk gallery, which will showcase select furniture pieces and create an urban interface since the building is set so far into the site. Here, the architecture utilizes another of Kenkoon’s furniture materials, stainless steel. But in this case, special reflective ‘mirror’ stainless steel tubes are used to reflect the surrounding environment. From inside the garden, the thin vertical lines reflect the green foliage, making the showroom bleed into the garden.

From the street, the stainless strips, along with the glass panes, reflect the passing cars and superimpose them onto the view of the gardens behind. It is a surreal layered effect, collapsing furniture onto the garden, and the garden onto the street.

Thus, the combination of the ‘thinness’ and ‘reflectivity’ of Kenkoon’s steel members are used to create spatial boundaries that both separate and unite architectural zones.

Location Wattana, Bangkok

72

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 72-73

Client Kenkoon Outdoor Furniture

Structural Engineer Sarawut Yuanteng

Area 300 sq. m.

Year 2013 73

11/24/14 7:34 AM

KENKOON FURNITURE GALLERY CHAT ARCHITECTS

Kenkoon is a well-known Thai manufacturer of beautiful modern outdoor furniture.

Their collections are minimalist, utilizing simple materials of teak wood, stainless steel, and canvas.

They acquired an old house situated in the middle of a lush garden, which they transformed into an ‘oasis’ gallery in the middle of Bangkok. The existing concrete building, a quirky early 70’s brutalist concrete house with a protruding front stair core, is sheathed in a facetted skin of recycled wood slats salvaged from old Kenkoon patio chairs (wooden slats make up the seat and backing). It forms a new architectural skin literally composed of the company’s own furniture components.

To reduce cost and promote local craftsmanship the façade is installed by the company’s own furniture craftsman. The design allows the woodworkers to share their ideas on form. Stainless steel cables are threaded through each wood slat creating a wooden veil-like facade. The facets of the façade are created so the tenon end of each wood slat can be exposed and celebrated, showing that this unique architectural façade was once a piece of the company’s own joinery furniture. The result is a facetted façade with light filtering lines inspired by the leafy strips of the palm tree branches on site.

Another major component is the sidewalk gallery, which will showcase select furniture pieces and create an urban interface since the building is set so far into the site. Here, the architecture utilizes another of Kenkoon’s furniture materials, stainless steel. But in this case, special reflective ‘mirror’ stainless steel tubes are used to reflect the surrounding environment. From inside the garden, the thin vertical lines reflect the green foliage, making the showroom bleed into the garden.

From the street, the stainless strips, along with the glass panes, reflect the passing cars and superimpose them onto the view of the gardens behind. It is a surreal layered effect, collapsing furniture onto the garden, and the garden onto the street.

Thus, the combination of the ‘thinness’ and ‘reflectivity’ of Kenkoon’s steel members are used to create spatial boundaries that both separate and unite architectural zones.

Location Wattana, Bangkok

72

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 72-73

Client Kenkoon Outdoor Furniture

Structural Engineer Sarawut Yuanteng

Area 300 sq. m.

Year 2013 73

11/24/14 7:34 AM

Plan

74

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 74-75

75

11/24/14 7:34 AM

Plan

74

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 74-75

75

11/24/14 7:34 AM

MARQUE SALE OFFICE PALMER & TURNER (THAILAND)

Rachaprasong Skylink junction is the starting point of a new elevated walkway route which links two commercial districts. The project involved creating new junction space by renovating a section of the existing elevated walkway which provides access to and from the Skytrain system. The project consisted of two parts; the junction area, and the bridge link area.

The design concept of the junction area not only re-shaped and widened the existing walkway to be a functional junction area but also acted to create a sophisticated ambience with improved circulation flows for the surrounding office and commercial buildings. This area will become the new transition space and the new meeting point of the district.

The second part, the bridge link area, connects from the newly developed junction area to a high-end retail and commercial building to act as the entrance to the Skylink project. The walkway’s steel roof structure was fabricated to smoothly curve upwards creating a high soffit space. This effect not only creates a welcoming entrance space but also generates a smooth continuity from the junction to the bridge link area.

A steel structure was selected for this project for 3 key reasons. Firstly, to minimize the depth of the roof structure in relation to the width of the walkway’s span. Secondly, to aesthetically differentiate the development from other parts of the skywalk. This was achieved by the use of a filleted corner steel member that is continuous between the floor structure and the roof structure. These steel members act as the main spine of the entire area. Thirdly, because of a limited construction period. As the walkway was operational during the day safety protection needed to be provided during that period. This restricted the main construction period to night time. As such all steel members were pre-fabricated in a factory then installed on site at night.

Location Wattana, Bangkok

80

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 80-81

Client Gaysorn Realty

Structural Engineer KCS & Associates

Area 800 sq. m.

Year 2013 81

11/24/14 7:34 AM

MARQUE SALE OFFICE PALMER & TURNER (THAILAND)

Rachaprasong Skylink junction is the starting point of a new elevated walkway route which links two commercial districts. The project involved creating new junction space by renovating a section of the existing elevated walkway which provides access to and from the Skytrain system. The project consisted of two parts; the junction area, and the bridge link area.

The design concept of the junction area not only re-shaped and widened the existing walkway to be a functional junction area but also acted to create a sophisticated ambience with improved circulation flows for the surrounding office and commercial buildings. This area will become the new transition space and the new meeting point of the district.

The second part, the bridge link area, connects from the newly developed junction area to a high-end retail and commercial building to act as the entrance to the Skylink project. The walkway’s steel roof structure was fabricated to smoothly curve upwards creating a high soffit space. This effect not only creates a welcoming entrance space but also generates a smooth continuity from the junction to the bridge link area.

A steel structure was selected for this project for 3 key reasons. Firstly, to minimize the depth of the roof structure in relation to the width of the walkway’s span. Secondly, to aesthetically differentiate the development from other parts of the skywalk. This was achieved by the use of a filleted corner steel member that is continuous between the floor structure and the roof structure. These steel members act as the main spine of the entire area. Thirdly, because of a limited construction period. As the walkway was operational during the day safety protection needed to be provided during that period. This restricted the main construction period to night time. As such all steel members were pre-fabricated in a factory then installed on site at night.

Location Wattana, Bangkok

80

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 80-81

Client Gaysorn Realty

Structural Engineer KCS & Associates

Area 800 sq. m.

Year 2013 81

11/24/14 7:34 AM

Layout Plan

Elevation

84

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 84-85

Isometric

Section

85

11/24/14 7:35 AM

Layout Plan

Elevation

84

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 84-85

Isometric

Section

85

11/24/14 7:35 AM

P LANDSCAPE OFFICE BUILDING P LANDSCAPE

In search of a larger studio space to accommodate an improved work environment that fosters creativity, team work, and growth, P Landscape chanced upon an old warehouse structure located in a charming residential neighborhood with convenient access to downtown Bangkok. Once used to store heavy machinery and vehicles, this was an open structure with high ceilings that offered a generous volume with the potential for renovation into the office space envisioned by this internationally renowned landscape design studio.

To imbue a more holistic interconnection between the creative individuals at P Landscape, the workplace design was inspired by the goal to create a space that engaged creativity and interaction, while maintaining a strong sense of individuality and unique style that defines the firm’s vision and core values. Here, the opportunity to offer spaces for staff to work in a comfortable and engaging environment, conduct workshops and meetings, and even socialize in a healthy and vibrant atmosphere, was key to the design.

Owing to the limited timeframe within which the renovation project had to be completed, it was not feasible to design with a concrete structure. Thus, a steel structure became the preferred design solution. The retrofitting of a new steel structure within the existing building showcases the architect’s variation on modern industrial design and reveals the true character of the materiality used. Exposed steel I-beams form the studio spaces, thus allowing for larger openings through the reduction of solid walls and bulky structures. These openings in turn allow more natural light to filter into the interior spaces resulting in higher visibility and connectivity.

The interior renovation features the addition of a second level on steel framing with flexible spaces for design studios to engage with each other and also personalized workstations for each individual. The core of the design studio space is formed by a central double-height open atrium that enhances visual flow and circulation and encourages staff to interact more through the sharing of work process, resources, and ideas, as well as the programming of office-wide activities that promote active learning.

Combined with the exposed steel structure, extensive glass openings allow for views to the lush green gardens created by the landscape architecture and horticulturist teams. This juxtaposition of hard and soft elements brings about a sense of intimacy and contemporary design to the once defunct industrial structure. An asphalt parking space that once surrounded the structure is converted in parts into green spaces such as the distinct walled entry gardens, a signature design of the firm. Additions of these vital green areas as well as of art, ornamentation, and vibrant colors and textures within the modern industrial office space help create a more pleasant work and play environment for the staff to engage within.

Location Wattana, Bangkok

88

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 88-89

Client P Landscape

Structural Engineer Actec

Area 985 sq. m.

Year 2011 89

11/24/14 7:35 AM

P LANDSCAPE OFFICE BUILDING P LANDSCAPE

In search of a larger studio space to accommodate an improved work environment that fosters creativity, team work, and growth, P Landscape chanced upon an old warehouse structure located in a charming residential neighborhood with convenient access to downtown Bangkok. Once used to store heavy machinery and vehicles, this was an open structure with high ceilings that offered a generous volume with the potential for renovation into the office space envisioned by this internationally renowned landscape design studio.

To imbue a more holistic interconnection between the creative individuals at P Landscape, the workplace design was inspired by the goal to create a space that engaged creativity and interaction, while maintaining a strong sense of individuality and unique style that defines the firm’s vision and core values. Here, the opportunity to offer spaces for staff to work in a comfortable and engaging environment, conduct workshops and meetings, and even socialize in a healthy and vibrant atmosphere, was key to the design.

Owing to the limited timeframe within which the renovation project had to be completed, it was not feasible to design with a concrete structure. Thus, a steel structure became the preferred design solution. The retrofitting of a new steel structure within the existing building showcases the architect’s variation on modern industrial design and reveals the true character of the materiality used. Exposed steel I-beams form the studio spaces, thus allowing for larger openings through the reduction of solid walls and bulky structures. These openings in turn allow more natural light to filter into the interior spaces resulting in higher visibility and connectivity.

The interior renovation features the addition of a second level on steel framing with flexible spaces for design studios to engage with each other and also personalized workstations for each individual. The core of the design studio space is formed by a central double-height open atrium that enhances visual flow and circulation and encourages staff to interact more through the sharing of work process, resources, and ideas, as well as the programming of office-wide activities that promote active learning.

Combined with the exposed steel structure, extensive glass openings allow for views to the lush green gardens created by the landscape architecture and horticulturist teams. This juxtaposition of hard and soft elements brings about a sense of intimacy and contemporary design to the once defunct industrial structure. An asphalt parking space that once surrounded the structure is converted in parts into green spaces such as the distinct walled entry gardens, a signature design of the firm. Additions of these vital green areas as well as of art, ornamentation, and vibrant colors and textures within the modern industrial office space help create a more pleasant work and play environment for the staff to engage within.

Location Wattana, Bangkok

88

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 88-89

Client P Landscape

Structural Engineer Actec

Area 985 sq. m.

Year 2011 89

11/24/14 7:35 AM

Chain pullers as decorative elements

94

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 94-95

95

11/24/14 7:36 AM

Chain pullers as decorative elements

94

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 94-95

95

11/24/14 7:36 AM

PAKKRED OFFICE GEODESIC DESIGN

This architectural design studio is situated on a 16 x 24 meter plot of land oriented north-south. On the east side is an unpleasant vacant lot; on the west is a 10-yearold house with a small lush garden. On the street side, an old rain tree branches over the full width of the plot. The new building is set on the plot's east side, behind the tree, creating an open space on the west side.

The building is dictated by a 4 meter span and standard 6 meter long steel parts, most of the interior walls are clear glass to make the rooms feel larger. The eastern exterior wall is solid to block the view of the adjoining vacant lot. To connect with the outdoor space, large openings fill the western elevation, which is 6 meters high by 16 meters long and faces the afternoon sun. A large sun protection panel is designed to protect the interior from heat and extreme light as the west wing embraces the outdoor garden view. The ground floor has been raised 1.2 meters and is used as storage space, for maintenance, the dispersal of heat, and to prevent damage from future floods in the monsoon season.

The steel skeleton and steel-deck flooring kept the construction site clean and shortened the time the tree was disturbed. Solid walls are made of lightweight bricks and concrete covered wire mesh panel with foam core. Exposed metal floor planks become the ceiling. All windows are low-emissivity glass. To experiment with solar energy, solar panels feed electricity directly into the building.

Location Pakkred, Nonthaburi

96

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 96-97

Client Geodesic Design

Structural Engineer Apichart Yutanon

Area 220 sq. m.

Year 2013 97

11/24/14 7:36 AM

PAKKRED OFFICE GEODESIC DESIGN

This architectural design studio is situated on a 16 x 24 meter plot of land oriented north-south. On the east side is an unpleasant vacant lot; on the west is a 10-yearold house with a small lush garden. On the street side, an old rain tree branches over the full width of the plot. The new building is set on the plot's east side, behind the tree, creating an open space on the west side.

The building is dictated by a 4 meter span and standard 6 meter long steel parts, most of the interior walls are clear glass to make the rooms feel larger. The eastern exterior wall is solid to block the view of the adjoining vacant lot. To connect with the outdoor space, large openings fill the western elevation, which is 6 meters high by 16 meters long and faces the afternoon sun. A large sun protection panel is designed to protect the interior from heat and extreme light as the west wing embraces the outdoor garden view. The ground floor has been raised 1.2 meters and is used as storage space, for maintenance, the dispersal of heat, and to prevent damage from future floods in the monsoon season.

The steel skeleton and steel-deck flooring kept the construction site clean and shortened the time the tree was disturbed. Solid walls are made of lightweight bricks and concrete covered wire mesh panel with foam core. Exposed metal floor planks become the ceiling. All windows are low-emissivity glass. To experiment with solar energy, solar panels feed electricity directly into the building.

Location Pakkred, Nonthaburi

96

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 96-97

Client Geodesic Design

Structural Engineer Apichart Yutanon

Area 220 sq. m.

Year 2013 97

11/24/14 7:36 AM

100

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 100-101

101

11/24/14 7:37 AM

100

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 100-101

101

11/24/14 7:37 AM

NAT HEAD OFFICE M SPACE

The project was commissioned by Nat Motor Sales. The company sells Honda motorcycles and has more than 30 branches in northeastern Thailand. Originally, the owner expressed a wish to build a structure that would symbolically represent the corporate head office, and convey the company’s core principles and management direction. The building was required to enhance the image of local entrepreneurial spirits, most often seen in the simple shop-houses in the various provincial districts.

The project is located in a provincial town of Udonthani, an important commercial and trade center for countries in the Mekong river region. The site is situated on an intersection of a major highway between Udonthani International Airport and the town center. Taking the nature of the company’s business into account, a steel structure was designed like a steel bridge connecting two main roads. This gradually elevates to open up a public space underneath. The building envelope provides 1,500 square meters and houses the showroom, Big Bike service center, café, public plaza on the lower level, office space, exhibition hall, meeting room and library.

Symbolizing the movement of a motorcycle, the folded planes converge and twist away from each other. Each folded plane that converges creates a new functional space, whereas the area that is left unfolded creates a semi open multipurpose area. The large, cantilevered roof offers protection from strong sunlight and rain, and creates shaded areas for the public outdoor space below. The second fold is twisted back into the intersection, creating a form that resembles a motorcycle making a sharp turn at top speed before overshooting, with the axis pointing toward Nongprachak, an important public park and symbol of Udonthani.

The building’s characteristics are defined through three main materials. The outer shells are made of aluminium composite that reflects light of various spectrums depending on the time of day. Most vivid is the red-orange color of the stained concrete planks used on the plaza, which showcases the ground’s original soil color, the same soil of Baan Chiang ceramic ware dating from 5,000 years ago. The inner side provides a continuous surface from floor to wall and ceiling. The material entirely absorbs light and shadow, while creating strong contrast with the bright, reflective exterior light. The long stripe of the shell looks like a road that runs straight, cantilevers into the air, and then folds back to the building body like an aircraft wing.

The building consists of a steel structure with prefabricated components in order to conform to the construction period in Thailand’s monsoon season. Building parts were produced from a temporary on-site factory at the same time as the construction of the building foundation. This allowed a tight project schedule, reduction of construction waste and controlled the number of skilled laborers and inspectors. The open-shaft columns work like a hub feeding electricity, water, acoustics and lighting to the outdoor activities area. The connectivity points are accessible from each column, making it both convenient and cost-effective to maintain in the long-term.

Location Mueang, Udonthani

104

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 104-105

Client Nat Motor Sales

Structural Engineer Building Construction Management, U Plus Consultants

Area 1,500 sq. m.

Year 2013 105

11/24/14 7:37 AM

NAT HEAD OFFICE M SPACE

The project was commissioned by Nat Motor Sales. The company sells Honda motorcycles and has more than 30 branches in northeastern Thailand. Originally, the owner expressed a wish to build a structure that would symbolically represent the corporate head office, and convey the company’s core principles and management direction. The building was required to enhance the image of local entrepreneurial spirits, most often seen in the simple shop-houses in the various provincial districts.

The project is located in a provincial town of Udonthani, an important commercial and trade center for countries in the Mekong river region. The site is situated on an intersection of a major highway between Udonthani International Airport and the town center. Taking the nature of the company’s business into account, a steel structure was designed like a steel bridge connecting two main roads. This gradually elevates to open up a public space underneath. The building envelope provides 1,500 square meters and houses the showroom, Big Bike service center, café, public plaza on the lower level, office space, exhibition hall, meeting room and library.

Symbolizing the movement of a motorcycle, the folded planes converge and twist away from each other. Each folded plane that converges creates a new functional space, whereas the area that is left unfolded creates a semi open multipurpose area. The large, cantilevered roof offers protection from strong sunlight and rain, and creates shaded areas for the public outdoor space below. The second fold is twisted back into the intersection, creating a form that resembles a motorcycle making a sharp turn at top speed before overshooting, with the axis pointing toward Nongprachak, an important public park and symbol of Udonthani.

The building’s characteristics are defined through three main materials. The outer shells are made of aluminium composite that reflects light of various spectrums depending on the time of day. Most vivid is the red-orange color of the stained concrete planks used on the plaza, which showcases the ground’s original soil color, the same soil of Baan Chiang ceramic ware dating from 5,000 years ago. The inner side provides a continuous surface from floor to wall and ceiling. The material entirely absorbs light and shadow, while creating strong contrast with the bright, reflective exterior light. The long stripe of the shell looks like a road that runs straight, cantilevers into the air, and then folds back to the building body like an aircraft wing.

The building consists of a steel structure with prefabricated components in order to conform to the construction period in Thailand’s monsoon season. Building parts were produced from a temporary on-site factory at the same time as the construction of the building foundation. This allowed a tight project schedule, reduction of construction waste and controlled the number of skilled laborers and inspectors. The open-shaft columns work like a hub feeding electricity, water, acoustics and lighting to the outdoor activities area. The connectivity points are accessible from each column, making it both convenient and cost-effective to maintain in the long-term.

Location Mueang, Udonthani

104

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 104-105

Client Nat Motor Sales

Structural Engineer Building Construction Management, U Plus Consultants

Area 1,500 sq. m.

Year 2013 105

11/24/14 7:37 AM

View from highway intersection

108

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 108-109

109

11/24/14 7:38 AM

View from highway intersection

108

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 108-109

109

11/24/14 7:38 AM

S CONSTRUCTION METAPHOR DESIGN STUDIO

The Bangkok-based studio Metaphor designed the new office space for steelworks and construction company, S. Associate Construction, in the Suan Luang district of the Thai capital. The project consists of the addition of a 400 square meter office space inside what was originally a steel factory, now partially used as a manufacturing unit for various metal parts and storage. In order to separate the office space from the vast factory area ‘an architecture within an architecture’ was created. Consisting of a steel structure on the mezzanine floor that has a geometric, faceted appearance finished in dark tones reminiscent of unpolished steel. The challenge was to design a new architecture with a strong character, but within the original context.

Ancient steel mills and the mechanical equipment of the past inspired the concept of S-Construction office. Metaphor utilized the combination of wood and steel in the design through observation of a hammer, a standard tool that has two major components, ‘steel and wood’. While the steel part of a hammer is intended to perform the hard work, the wooden handle is gently crafted to come into contact with the human hand. With this observation, Metaphor created an office space that highlights the strong sense of steel in the exterior contrasting the softness of wood in the interior.

Inside the office, the dark and austere atmosphere (decorated in a style reminiscent of old industrial spaces) is somewhat softened by the use of natural wood on the walls and leather on the furniture, while new openings were created on the building’s outer shell to admit more natural light. Black wood is used on the exterior to represent the sense of usage through time and heat combustion. The rest of the factory facilities were kept intact, although some tasteful alterations have been made: for example, the massive rails of the factory’s overhead crane have been given a copper finish, thus transforming them into shiny decorative elements.

Location Prawet, Bangkok

112

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 112-113

Client S. Associate Construction

Structural Engineer S. Associate Construction

Area 400 sq.m.

Year 2013 113

11/24/14 7:38 AM

S CONSTRUCTION METAPHOR DESIGN STUDIO

The Bangkok-based studio Metaphor designed the new office space for steelworks and construction company, S. Associate Construction, in the Suan Luang district of the Thai capital. The project consists of the addition of a 400 square meter office space inside what was originally a steel factory, now partially used as a manufacturing unit for various metal parts and storage. In order to separate the office space from the vast factory area ‘an architecture within an architecture’ was created. Consisting of a steel structure on the mezzanine floor that has a geometric, faceted appearance finished in dark tones reminiscent of unpolished steel. The challenge was to design a new architecture with a strong character, but within the original context.

Ancient steel mills and the mechanical equipment of the past inspired the concept of S-Construction office. Metaphor utilized the combination of wood and steel in the design through observation of a hammer, a standard tool that has two major components, ‘steel and wood’. While the steel part of a hammer is intended to perform the hard work, the wooden handle is gently crafted to come into contact with the human hand. With this observation, Metaphor created an office space that highlights the strong sense of steel in the exterior contrasting the softness of wood in the interior.

Inside the office, the dark and austere atmosphere (decorated in a style reminiscent of old industrial spaces) is somewhat softened by the use of natural wood on the walls and leather on the furniture, while new openings were created on the building’s outer shell to admit more natural light. Black wood is used on the exterior to represent the sense of usage through time and heat combustion. The rest of the factory facilities were kept intact, although some tasteful alterations have been made: for example, the massive rails of the factory’s overhead crane have been given a copper finish, thus transforming them into shiny decorative elements.

Location Prawet, Bangkok

112

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 112-113

Client S. Associate Construction

Structural Engineer S. Associate Construction

Area 400 sq.m.

Year 2013 113

11/24/14 7:38 AM

120

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 120-121

121

11/24/14 7:39 AM

120

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 120-121

121

11/24/14 7:39 AM

WALLLASIA OFFICE BUILDING WALLASIA

Townhouses can be considered the Asian cousin of the British terraced house. They are also afflicted by similar weaknesses in terms of their limited opportunities to cross-ventilate and connect to the surrounding environment. This on-going renovation by Suriya Umpansiriratana of his own home and studio, tries to redress these issues by opening up the interior to the outside, and bringing nature inside. The project comprises two typical townhouse units, situated back-to-back. The architect has merged them together to form a long and narrow space, turning the backyards into a central courtyard space.

The building is punctured by pockets of open space, including a one-metre-wide corridor traversing the entire length of one side of the first floor. The narrow corridor space alternates with larger hallways to further assist the movement of airflow inside the house. The journey afforded by the house begins even before one reaches the front door, as the tree in the front courtyard branches out to form a lush canopy over the narrow two-lane street, announcing the house even from a distance.

The frontage itself is starkly different to the adjoining rows of identical plaster wall townhouses, as the old façade has been demolished and in its place is a doublestorey screen of black expanded metal, its rawness softened by the even taller layer of foliage. The open-air front courtyard enveloped in greenery is a transition zone, as once inside the studio space, the light dims dramatically. The cooler indoor temperature is achieved by blocking off the tropical sunlight and having many small ponds; the soft light and coolness are effective in creating a comfortable atmosphere for the body. But the climactic moment is the central courtyard flooded with light and air, with droplets of water trickling down through the hanging pot plants, the floor made of perforated steel panels suspended above a fish pond. It is to represent a miniature micro cosmos, with water below and the sky above, in addition to rocks and plants, a space at once brightly lit yet subdued due to the steel elements in black, at once open and yet enclosed and completely private.

Small roof terraces on the attic floor level are located in unlikely places, such as among the tree branches at the front of the house, shaded and camouflaged by the leaves, or elevated at the back of the house with a view of the neighbourhood’s roofline. These unexpected sitting areas offer the kind of delight to be found in tree houses or children’s hiding places, there is the sense of calmness from being high up and hidden, but also of adventure. In addition to the physical connection to the exterior, the visual connection has also been carefully considered, with sightlines trained towards existing trees and greenery in the neighbourhood. Being surrounded and infused with nature, even if in a compact form, this house presents a much more sympathetic model of affordable urban living.

Location Bueng Kum, Bangkok

122

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 122-123

Client Walllasia

Structural Engineer -

Area - sq. m.

Year 2014 123

11/24/14 7:39 AM

WALLLASIA OFFICE BUILDING WALLASIA

Townhouses can be considered the Asian cousin of the British terraced house. They are also afflicted by similar weaknesses in terms of their limited opportunities to cross-ventilate and connect to the surrounding environment. This on-going renovation by Suriya Umpansiriratana of his own home and studio, tries to redress these issues by opening up the interior to the outside, and bringing nature inside. The project comprises two typical townhouse units, situated back-to-back. The architect has merged them together to form a long and narrow space, turning the backyards into a central courtyard space.

The building is punctured by pockets of open space, including a one-metre-wide corridor traversing the entire length of one side of the first floor. The narrow corridor space alternates with larger hallways to further assist the movement of airflow inside the house. The journey afforded by the house begins even before one reaches the front door, as the tree in the front courtyard branches out to form a lush canopy over the narrow two-lane street, announcing the house even from a distance.

The frontage itself is starkly different to the adjoining rows of identical plaster wall townhouses, as the old façade has been demolished and in its place is a doublestorey screen of black expanded metal, its rawness softened by the even taller layer of foliage. The open-air front courtyard enveloped in greenery is a transition zone, as once inside the studio space, the light dims dramatically. The cooler indoor temperature is achieved by blocking off the tropical sunlight and having many small ponds; the soft light and coolness are effective in creating a comfortable atmosphere for the body. But the climactic moment is the central courtyard flooded with light and air, with droplets of water trickling down through the hanging pot plants, the floor made of perforated steel panels suspended above a fish pond. It is to represent a miniature micro cosmos, with water below and the sky above, in addition to rocks and plants, a space at once brightly lit yet subdued due to the steel elements in black, at once open and yet enclosed and completely private.

Small roof terraces on the attic floor level are located in unlikely places, such as among the tree branches at the front of the house, shaded and camouflaged by the leaves, or elevated at the back of the house with a view of the neighbourhood’s roofline. These unexpected sitting areas offer the kind of delight to be found in tree houses or children’s hiding places, there is the sense of calmness from being high up and hidden, but also of adventure. In addition to the physical connection to the exterior, the visual connection has also been carefully considered, with sightlines trained towards existing trees and greenery in the neighbourhood. Being surrounded and infused with nature, even if in a compact form, this house presents a much more sympathetic model of affordable urban living.

Location Bueng Kum, Bangkok

122

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 122-123

Client Walllasia

Structural Engineer -

Area - sq. m.

Year 2014 123

11/24/14 7:39 AM

Section

Ground Floor Plan

Master Plan

Second Floor Plan

office voids and wind

Attic Floor Plan

124

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 124-125

125

11/24/14 7:39 AM

Section

Ground Floor Plan

Master Plan

Second Floor Plan

office voids and wind

Attic Floor Plan

124

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 124-125

125

11/24/14 7:39 AM

RIGHTMAN DESIGN PARK RIGHT MAN

Rachaprasong Skylink junction is the starting point of a new elevated walkway route which links two commercial districts. The project involved creating new junction space by renovating a section of the existing elevated walkway which provides access to and from the Skytrain system. The project consisted of two parts; the junction area, and the bridge link area.

The design concept of the junction area not only re-shaped and widened the existing walkway to be a functional junction area but also acted to create a sophisticated ambience with improved circulation flows for the surrounding office and commercial buildings. This area will become the new transition space and the new meeting point of the district.

The second part, the bridge link area, connects from the newly developed junction area to a high-end retail and commercial building to act as the entrance to the Skylink project. The walkway’s steel roof structure was fabricated to smoothly curve upwards creating a high soffit space. This effect not only creates a welcoming entrance space but also generates a smooth continuity from the junction to the bridge link area.

A steel structure was selected for this project for 3 key reasons. Firstly, to minimize the depth of the roof structure in relation to the width of the walkway’s span. Secondly, to aesthetically differentiate the development from other parts of the skywalk. This was achieved by the use of a filleted corner steel member that is continuous between the floor structure and the roof structure. These steel members act as the main spine of the entire area. Thirdly, because of a limited construction period. As the walkway was operational during the day safety protection needed to be provided during that period. This restricted the main construction period to night time. As such all steel members were pre-fabricated in a factory then installed on site at night.

Location Prawet, Bangkok

132

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 132-133

Client Upathum Nisitsukchareon

Structural Engineer KCS & Associates

Area 3,000 sq. m.

Year 2011 133

11/24/14 7:40 AM

RIGHTMAN DESIGN PARK RIGHT MAN

Rachaprasong Skylink junction is the starting point of a new elevated walkway route which links two commercial districts. The project involved creating new junction space by renovating a section of the existing elevated walkway which provides access to and from the Skytrain system. The project consisted of two parts; the junction area, and the bridge link area.

The design concept of the junction area not only re-shaped and widened the existing walkway to be a functional junction area but also acted to create a sophisticated ambience with improved circulation flows for the surrounding office and commercial buildings. This area will become the new transition space and the new meeting point of the district.

The second part, the bridge link area, connects from the newly developed junction area to a high-end retail and commercial building to act as the entrance to the Skylink project. The walkway’s steel roof structure was fabricated to smoothly curve upwards creating a high soffit space. This effect not only creates a welcoming entrance space but also generates a smooth continuity from the junction to the bridge link area.

A steel structure was selected for this project for 3 key reasons. Firstly, to minimize the depth of the roof structure in relation to the width of the walkway’s span. Secondly, to aesthetically differentiate the development from other parts of the skywalk. This was achieved by the use of a filleted corner steel member that is continuous between the floor structure and the roof structure. These steel members act as the main spine of the entire area. Thirdly, because of a limited construction period. As the walkway was operational during the day safety protection needed to be provided during that period. This restricted the main construction period to night time. As such all steel members were pre-fabricated in a factory then installed on site at night.

Location Prawet, Bangkok

132

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 132-133

Client Upathum Nisitsukchareon

Structural Engineer KCS & Associates

Area 3,000 sq. m.

Year 2011 133

11/24/14 7:40 AM

136

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 136-137

137

11/24/14 7:41 AM

136

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 136-137

137

11/24/14 7:41 AM

SIAM COUNTRY CLUB WATERSIDE THE OFFICE OF BANGKOK ARCHITECT (OBA)

Rachaprasong Skylink junction is the starting point of a new elevated walkway route which links two commercial districts. The project involved creating new junction space by renovating a section of the existing elevated walkway which provides access to and from the Skytrain system. The project consisted of two parts; the junction area, and the bridge link area.

The design concept of the junction area not only re-shaped and widened the existing walkway to be a functional junction area but also acted to create a sophisticated ambience with improved circulation flows for the surrounding office and commercial buildings. This area will become the new transition space and the new meeting point of the district.

The second part, the bridge link area, connects from the newly developed junction area to a high-end retail and commercial building to act as the entrance to the Skylink project. The walkway’s steel roof structure was fabricated to smoothly curve upwards creating a high soffit space. This effect not only creates a welcoming entrance space but also generates a smooth continuity from the junction to the bridge link area.

A steel structure was selected for this project for 3 key reasons. Firstly, to minimize the depth of the roof structure in relation to the width of the walkway’s span. Secondly, to aesthetically differentiate the development from other parts of the skywalk. This was achieved by the use of a filleted corner steel member that is continuous between the floor structure and the roof structure. These steel members act as the main spine of the entire area. Thirdly, because of a limited construction period. As the walkway was operational during the day safety protection needed to be provided during that period. This restricted the main construction period to night time. As such all steel members were pre-fabricated in a factory then installed on site at night.

Location Ploenchit Road, Bangkok 140

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 140-141

Client Gaysorn Realty

Structural Engineer KCS & Associates

Area 800 sq. m.

Year 2013 141

11/24/14 7:41 AM

SIAM COUNTRY CLUB WATERSIDE THE OFFICE OF BANGKOK ARCHITECT (OBA)

Rachaprasong Skylink junction is the starting point of a new elevated walkway route which links two commercial districts. The project involved creating new junction space by renovating a section of the existing elevated walkway which provides access to and from the Skytrain system. The project consisted of two parts; the junction area, and the bridge link area.

The design concept of the junction area not only re-shaped and widened the existing walkway to be a functional junction area but also acted to create a sophisticated ambience with improved circulation flows for the surrounding office and commercial buildings. This area will become the new transition space and the new meeting point of the district.

The second part, the bridge link area, connects from the newly developed junction area to a high-end retail and commercial building to act as the entrance to the Skylink project. The walkway’s steel roof structure was fabricated to smoothly curve upwards creating a high soffit space. This effect not only creates a welcoming entrance space but also generates a smooth continuity from the junction to the bridge link area.

A steel structure was selected for this project for 3 key reasons. Firstly, to minimize the depth of the roof structure in relation to the width of the walkway’s span. Secondly, to aesthetically differentiate the development from other parts of the skywalk. This was achieved by the use of a filleted corner steel member that is continuous between the floor structure and the roof structure. These steel members act as the main spine of the entire area. Thirdly, because of a limited construction period. As the walkway was operational during the day safety protection needed to be provided during that period. This restricted the main construction period to night time. As such all steel members were pre-fabricated in a factory then installed on site at night.

Location Ploenchit Road, Bangkok 140

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 140-141

Client Gaysorn Realty

Structural Engineer KCS & Associates

Area 800 sq. m.

Year 2013 141

11/24/14 7:41 AM

144

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 144-145

145

11/24/14 7:41 AM

144

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 144-145

145

11/24/14 7:41 AM

THE GRAND PINKLAO CLUBHOUSE OFFICE AT

The Grand Pinklao project is a luxury real estate development located on Borommaratchonnani Road, the main road to the west of Thailand. The Grand Pinklao Clubhouse is located in front of the developments main gateway and is highly visible from the main road. The building program includes multipurpose space and offices on the first level, while a sales office, swimming pool and fitness facility is located on the second level.

The developer required the new building to be unique and easily seen from the main road. So the building has been positioned on the top of a 2 meter high landscape with the building extending up to the 12 meter height limit.

The main program of the building is oriented along the main road so as to be clearly seen. The other program such as swimming pool and mechanical plant is placed along a north-south direction to form an L shape in plan.

The building axis also matches with the suitable solar orientation in South-East Asia. The narrow sides of the building face the sun on the east and west sides, on the west a 4.5 meter roof overhang protects the building from direct sunlight, increasing its energy efficiency. The building layout faces onto both the main road and the housing project within the development. The landscaping has been designed to lead visitors to the clubhouse from inside the housing project.

In order to make the building a gateway to the housing project, the building uses a post tension structure to form a 7.5 meter cantilever on both the front and back of the building. The exterior building skin on the second level is clear glass in order to show the activities inside. Functions that require privacy, such as toilets and meeting rooms, are covered with an irregular brick wall clad with stone. The resulting overall aesthetic is a glass box sitting on a stone base.

The building is composed of 3 types of structure. A post and beam structure is used to support the ground floor plate and swimming pool. The second level uses a post tension structure for the long cantilever and the main columns stop at the second floor plate. From the second floor to the roof of the building, a steel structure is used to make the glass box float. This utilizes a post tension steel structure to make a thin roof that is still capable of carrying the roof weight. To heighten the effect, the steel columns are blended into the aluminium mullions. With the steel structure, the roof has a 4.5 meter shading cantilever and combined with the second floor 7.5 meter cantilever there is a total cantilever of 12 meters.

Location Thawiwatthana, Bangkok 148

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 148-149

Client Krungthepland

Structural Engineer Sarawut Yuanteng

Area 1,000 sq. m.

Year 2013 149

11/24/14 7:42 AM

THE GRAND PINKLAO CLUBHOUSE OFFICE AT

The Grand Pinklao project is a luxury real estate development located on Borommaratchonnani Road, the main road to the west of Thailand. The Grand Pinklao Clubhouse is located in front of the developments main gateway and is highly visible from the main road. The building program includes multipurpose space and offices on the first level, while a sales office, swimming pool and fitness facility is located on the second level.

The developer required the new building to be unique and easily seen from the main road. So the building has been positioned on the top of a 2 meter high landscape with the building extending up to the 12 meter height limit.

The main program of the building is oriented along the main road so as to be clearly seen. The other program such as swimming pool and mechanical plant is placed along a north-south direction to form an L shape in plan.

The building axis also matches with the suitable solar orientation in South-East Asia. The narrow sides of the building face the sun on the east and west sides, on the west a 4.5 meter roof overhang protects the building from direct sunlight, increasing its energy efficiency. The building layout faces onto both the main road and the housing project within the development. The landscaping has been designed to lead visitors to the clubhouse from inside the housing project.

In order to make the building a gateway to the housing project, the building uses a post tension structure to form a 7.5 meter cantilever on both the front and back of the building. The exterior building skin on the second level is clear glass in order to show the activities inside. Functions that require privacy, such as toilets and meeting rooms, are covered with an irregular brick wall clad with stone. The resulting overall aesthetic is a glass box sitting on a stone base.

The building is composed of 3 types of structure. A post and beam structure is used to support the ground floor plate and swimming pool. The second level uses a post tension structure for the long cantilever and the main columns stop at the second floor plate. From the second floor to the roof of the building, a steel structure is used to make the glass box float. This utilizes a post tension steel structure to make a thin roof that is still capable of carrying the roof weight. To heighten the effect, the steel columns are blended into the aluminium mullions. With the steel structure, the roof has a 4.5 meter shading cantilever and combined with the second floor 7.5 meter cantilever there is a total cantilever of 12 meters.

Location Thawiwatthana, Bangkok 148

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 148-149

Client Krungthepland

Structural Engineer Sarawut Yuanteng

Area 1,000 sq. m.

Year 2013 149

11/24/14 7:42 AM

Second Floor Plan

Ground Floor Plan

Elevation

Section

150

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 150-151

151

11/24/14 7:42 AM

Second Floor Plan

Ground Floor Plan

Elevation

Section

150

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 150-151

151

11/24/14 7:42 AM

HABITIA H-CLUB IDIN ARCHITECTS

Located within the seaside context and rich natural ecology of the Bang Khun Thain mangrove beach on Bangkok’s outskirts, Habitia-H Club facilities function as a recreational clubhouse and a gateway entrance for the ‘Sansiri’ housing estate. The club is a single level building with a 300 square meter floor area situated on a 1,750 square meter site. The owner’s requirement was for the dual functions of a leisure center and main gateway to be combined to create impact. Combining these two very different functions and resolving the links between private and public, and indoor and outdoor, became the central condition to be resolved.

To cope with the problem of spatial arrangement, the architects experimented with the concept of a planar twist. After in-depth studies they arrived at a large simple twisted form that resolved all the functional requirements. Inspired by the gentle curve of the beach along the mangrove forest, the architects designed a concrete shell structure that served as an entrance and clubhouse to the housing estate, transforming the building into a single curvilinear form. However, construction proved to be a challenging process. The construction technique selected utilized reinforced concrete casting with GRP panels (glass reinforced plastic) to create a smooth curvilinear structure.

The facilities of this building include a living area, a swimming pool, and a fitness room. An open-plan arrangement with an inside out approach allows ventilation and semi-outdoor space. A reflection pool creates a relaxing atmosphere and expands the perception of space. The characteristics of the wooden stakes found throughout the coastal area were employed as landscape elements, interior columns, and pillars for the metal lattice covering the terrace. The intriguing form of the mangroves was selected to create a pattern for the carbon steel square tube structure. This part of the steel structure uses a metal lattice to create semi-transparency for the semioutdoor area and transform it into both a functional and visually interesting space.

Location Bang Khun Thian, Bangkok 156

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 156-157

Client Sansiri

Structural Engineer Engineer CT23

Area 302 sq. m.

Year 2013 157

11/24/14 7:43 AM

HABITIA H-CLUB IDIN ARCHITECTS

Located within the seaside context and rich natural ecology of the Bang Khun Thain mangrove beach on Bangkok’s outskirts, Habitia-H Club facilities function as a recreational clubhouse and a gateway entrance for the ‘Sansiri’ housing estate. The club is a single level building with a 300 square meter floor area situated on a 1,750 square meter site. The owner’s requirement was for the dual functions of a leisure center and main gateway to be combined to create impact. Combining these two very different functions and resolving the links between private and public, and indoor and outdoor, became the central condition to be resolved.

To cope with the problem of spatial arrangement, the architects experimented with the concept of a planar twist. After in-depth studies they arrived at a large simple twisted form that resolved all the functional requirements. Inspired by the gentle curve of the beach along the mangrove forest, the architects designed a concrete shell structure that served as an entrance and clubhouse to the housing estate, transforming the building into a single curvilinear form. However, construction proved to be a challenging process. The construction technique selected utilized reinforced concrete casting with GRP panels (glass reinforced plastic) to create a smooth curvilinear structure.

The facilities of this building include a living area, a swimming pool, and a fitness room. An open-plan arrangement with an inside out approach allows ventilation and semi-outdoor space. A reflection pool creates a relaxing atmosphere and expands the perception of space. The characteristics of the wooden stakes found throughout the coastal area were employed as landscape elements, interior columns, and pillars for the metal lattice covering the terrace. The intriguing form of the mangroves was selected to create a pattern for the carbon steel square tube structure. This part of the steel structure uses a metal lattice to create semi-transparency for the semioutdoor area and transform it into both a functional and visually interesting space.

Location Bang Khun Thian, Bangkok 156

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 156-157

Client Sansiri

Structural Engineer Engineer CT23

Area 302 sq. m.

Year 2013 157

11/24/14 7:43 AM

160

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 160-161

161

11/24/14 7:43 AM

160

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 160-161

161

11/24/14 7:43 AM

BANGKOK TREE HOUSE NUNTAPONG YINDEEKHUN

Rachaprasong Skylink junction is the starting point of a new elevated walkway route which links two commercial districts. The project involved creating new junction space by renovating a section of the existing elevated walkway which provides access to and from the Skytrain system. The project consisted of two parts; the junction area, and the bridge link area.

The design concept of the junction area not only re-shaped and widened the existing walkway to be a functional junction area but also acted to create a sophisticated ambience with improved circulation flows for the surrounding office and commercial buildings. This area will become the new transition space and the new meeting point of the district.

The second part, the bridge link area, connects from the newly developed junction area to a high-end retail and commercial building to act as the entrance to the Skylink project. The walkway’s steel roof structure was fabricated to smoothly curve upwards creating a high soffit space. This effect not only creates a welcoming entrance space but also generates a smooth continuity from the junction to the bridge link area.

A steel structure was selected for this project for 3 key reasons. Firstly, to minimize the depth of the roof structure in relation to the width of the walkway’s span. Secondly, to aesthetically differentiate the development from other parts of the skywalk. This was achieved by the use of a filleted corner steel member that is continuous between the floor structure and the roof structure. These steel members act as the main spine of the entire area. Thirdly, because of a limited construction period. As the walkway was operational during the day safety protection needed to be provided during that period. This restricted the main construction period to night time. As such all steel members were pre-fabricated in a factory then installed on site at night.

Location Bang Khun Thian, Bangkok 164

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 164-165

Client Jirayu Tulyanond

Structural Engineer Suwatcha Yindeekhun

Area 1,180 sq. m.

Year 2013 165

11/24/14 7:43 AM

BANGKOK TREE HOUSE NUNTAPONG YINDEEKHUN

Rachaprasong Skylink junction is the starting point of a new elevated walkway route which links two commercial districts. The project involved creating new junction space by renovating a section of the existing elevated walkway which provides access to and from the Skytrain system. The project consisted of two parts; the junction area, and the bridge link area.

The design concept of the junction area not only re-shaped and widened the existing walkway to be a functional junction area but also acted to create a sophisticated ambience with improved circulation flows for the surrounding office and commercial buildings. This area will become the new transition space and the new meeting point of the district.

The second part, the bridge link area, connects from the newly developed junction area to a high-end retail and commercial building to act as the entrance to the Skylink project. The walkway’s steel roof structure was fabricated to smoothly curve upwards creating a high soffit space. This effect not only creates a welcoming entrance space but also generates a smooth continuity from the junction to the bridge link area.

A steel structure was selected for this project for 3 key reasons. Firstly, to minimize the depth of the roof structure in relation to the width of the walkway’s span. Secondly, to aesthetically differentiate the development from other parts of the skywalk. This was achieved by the use of a filleted corner steel member that is continuous between the floor structure and the roof structure. These steel members act as the main spine of the entire area. Thirdly, because of a limited construction period. As the walkway was operational during the day safety protection needed to be provided during that period. This restricted the main construction period to night time. As such all steel members were pre-fabricated in a factory then installed on site at night.

Location Bang Khun Thian, Bangkok 164

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 164-165

Client Jirayu Tulyanond

Structural Engineer Suwatcha Yindeekhun

Area 1,180 sq. m.

Year 2013 165

11/24/14 7:43 AM

170

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 170-171

171

11/24/14 7:44 AM

170

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 170-171

171

11/24/14 7:44 AM

THE BOX PARK RDM DESIGN GROUP

The Box Park is located on Sri Soonthon Road in the Talang District of Phuket. It is a renovation project converting an existing building into boutique rental space with a built area of 650 square meters. Fundamental to the project was the owner’s requirement to increase the rental space of the original building, which was single level with unknown structural information. In addition, the budget and timeframes were an important challenge to the project.

Shipping containers were selected as the best solution to solve the problems of load, budget and time. Designed to show the true strength of raw materials, the assembly of six shipping containers was precisely designed to integrate with the concrete structure. The ground floor area was designed to be a pool table showroom with one shipping container used in the interior decoration as an owner’s office. Two shipping containers were added to the front to create a space for two rental shops with a private stair access. Another two large containers were placed on the second floor to penetrate the concrete structure and offer 4 rental spaces. A metal sheet roof structure was added to cover the exterior panels in order to reduce heat gain.

With its location on the major road to the upper west coast of the Phuket province, bright colors were used to dominate the project and enhance its liveliness. The use of color makes the project easily recognizable, increasing the developments visibility and appeal.

Location Talang, Phuket

174

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 174-175

Client Mazen & Metharat Kinj

Structural Engineer Sirikorn Chankaew

Area 650 sq. m.

Year 2013 175

11/24/14 7:44 AM

THE BOX PARK RDM DESIGN GROUP

The Box Park is located on Sri Soonthon Road in the Talang District of Phuket. It is a renovation project converting an existing building into boutique rental space with a built area of 650 square meters. Fundamental to the project was the owner’s requirement to increase the rental space of the original building, which was single level with unknown structural information. In addition, the budget and timeframes were an important challenge to the project.

Shipping containers were selected as the best solution to solve the problems of load, budget and time. Designed to show the true strength of raw materials, the assembly of six shipping containers was precisely designed to integrate with the concrete structure. The ground floor area was designed to be a pool table showroom with one shipping container used in the interior decoration as an owner’s office. Two shipping containers were added to the front to create a space for two rental shops with a private stair access. Another two large containers were placed on the second floor to penetrate the concrete structure and offer 4 rental spaces. A metal sheet roof structure was added to cover the exterior panels in order to reduce heat gain.

With its location on the major road to the upper west coast of the Phuket province, bright colors were used to dominate the project and enhance its liveliness. The use of color makes the project easily recognizable, increasing the developments visibility and appeal.

Location Talang, Phuket

174

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 174-175

Client Mazen & Metharat Kinj

Structural Engineer Sirikorn Chankaew

Area 650 sq. m.

Year 2013 175

11/24/14 7:44 AM

Second Floor Plan

Diagram

Ground Floor Plan

Elevation

Section

176

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 176-177

177

11/24/14 7:45 AM

Second Floor Plan

Diagram

Ground Floor Plan

Elevation

Section

176

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 176-177

177

11/24/14 7:45 AM

X2 RIVER KWAI AGALIGO STUDIO

X2 River Kwai is located on the most beautiful stretch of the Kwai Noi River in Kanchanaburi. With a spectacular backdrop of mountain ranges and clear blue skies, the resort boasts a breath-taking river view. Rice paddies, sugar cane plantations, local temples, and small villages surround the grounds. The resort facilities offer accommodation along with a restaurant and bistro with an outdoor deck, a library, and an infinity swimming pool.

The province of Kanchanaburi played many important roles during the Thai-Burmese conflict of the past centuries. It was a place where ethnic tribes lived in thick jungle and also a site for mining activities. The town became widely recognized after the Second World War, when Japanese soldiers used it as a base camp for the prisoners of war to construct the notorious Thai-Burma Railway and the well-known bridge over the River Kwai. This memoir was later featured in the 1957 Hollywood film, ‘The Bridge on the River Kwai’. Consequently, ‘The Railway Man,’ was produced in 2014 to recite the historical event.

The resort is a collaboration between the owner and the architect. The design theme took inspiration from Kanchanaburi’s unique history combined with the essence of its location near the historic railway, bridge, and river. The result is an avant-garde design that embraces the local character. In creating the sense of place, the architecture of X2 River Kwai adopted a ‘light structure’ concept for the project. Light timber and bamboo structures are commonly seen on local houses, rafts, and bridges. Light steel structural trusses are seen on local factories, mining equipment, and on the bridge over the River Kwai itself. With the triangulated steel members, this type of system gives the freedom to build structures that almost ‘float in the air’. This quality of floating is used to create the sense of place and to imbue X2 River Kwai with a special experience. LuXe Cabin guests can enjoy the panoramic view of the River Kwai from their ‘flying’ decks that stretch into the vast nature while Pool Xide Cabin guests can rest on private ‘raft’ terraces and soak their feet in the infinity pools.

Location Mueang, Kanchanaburi 182

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 182-183

Client Gekko Industries

Structural Engineer M-SQUARE Engineering & Management

Area 3,023 sq. m.

Year 2014 183

11/24/14 7:46 AM

X2 RIVER KWAI AGALIGO STUDIO

X2 River Kwai is located on the most beautiful stretch of the Kwai Noi River in Kanchanaburi. With a spectacular backdrop of mountain ranges and clear blue skies, the resort boasts a breath-taking river view. Rice paddies, sugar cane plantations, local temples, and small villages surround the grounds. The resort facilities offer accommodation along with a restaurant and bistro with an outdoor deck, a library, and an infinity swimming pool.

The province of Kanchanaburi played many important roles during the Thai-Burmese conflict of the past centuries. It was a place where ethnic tribes lived in thick jungle and also a site for mining activities. The town became widely recognized after the Second World War, when Japanese soldiers used it as a base camp for the prisoners of war to construct the notorious Thai-Burma Railway and the well-known bridge over the River Kwai. This memoir was later featured in the 1957 Hollywood film, ‘The Bridge on the River Kwai’. Consequently, ‘The Railway Man,’ was produced in 2014 to recite the historical event.

The resort is a collaboration between the owner and the architect. The design theme took inspiration from Kanchanaburi’s unique history combined with the essence of its location near the historic railway, bridge, and river. The result is an avant-garde design that embraces the local character. In creating the sense of place, the architecture of X2 River Kwai adopted a ‘light structure’ concept for the project. Light timber and bamboo structures are commonly seen on local houses, rafts, and bridges. Light steel structural trusses are seen on local factories, mining equipment, and on the bridge over the River Kwai itself. With the triangulated steel members, this type of system gives the freedom to build structures that almost ‘float in the air’. This quality of floating is used to create the sense of place and to imbue X2 River Kwai with a special experience. LuXe Cabin guests can enjoy the panoramic view of the River Kwai from their ‘flying’ decks that stretch into the vast nature while Pool Xide Cabin guests can rest on private ‘raft’ terraces and soak their feet in the infinity pools.

Location Mueang, Kanchanaburi 182

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 182-183

Client Gekko Industries

Structural Engineer M-SQUARE Engineering & Management

Area 3,023 sq. m.

Year 2014 183

11/24/14 7:46 AM

188

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 188-189

189

11/24/14 7:46 AM

188

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 188-189

189

11/24/14 7:46 AM

THRIVE THE HOSTEL NUZEN

Thrive the Hostel was started by young owners with a vision to create a unique hostel experience. The designers shared the desire to discover a unique solution for the business. At the outset the phrase ‘a hostel factory for the coolest people to live in’ was used as the design inspiration.

Traces of the existing building structure and skin were examined to provide a design starting point. Elements drawing on steel bridges, train stations, and a mix of 80s and 90s edgy architecture also served as inspiration. This research prompted the decision to retain traces of the building skin while using new forms that draw on the character of factory machinery. A variety of steel types and sizes were used to respond to the aesthetic concept. Elements such as the floors and column steel work along with wooden elements salvaged during demolition were utilized. The resulting architecture sees new shapes dancing on an old structure, telling a story of renewal.

Throughout the project, design coincided with the construction process. During demolition the structure was observed and understood, and the concept evolved, and the correct solutions found their place. The design theme and strong organic shape of the factory machinery, combined with the original design phrase, to create a clear physical expression to each space. Concern was taken to control the design so as not to destroy the original building.

Throughout the project there was strong support from the contractor and steel technician. All parties worked closely together to discover the potential of steel architecture. Difficult details were resolved through the technical knowledge and support of the steel contractors who put forth solutions as problems were discovered on site.

Location Rama IV Road, Bangkok 190

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 190-191

Client Mee Mit Dee

Structural Engineer Sommanat Kaewpraphak

Area 790 sq. m.

Year 2013 191

11/24/14 7:46 AM

THRIVE THE HOSTEL NUZEN

Thrive the Hostel was started by young owners with a vision to create a unique hostel experience. The designers shared the desire to discover a unique solution for the business. At the outset the phrase ‘a hostel factory for the coolest people to live in’ was used as the design inspiration.

Traces of the existing building structure and skin were examined to provide a design starting point. Elements drawing on steel bridges, train stations, and a mix of 80s and 90s edgy architecture also served as inspiration. This research prompted the decision to retain traces of the building skin while using new forms that draw on the character of factory machinery. A variety of steel types and sizes were used to respond to the aesthetic concept. Elements such as the floors and column steel work along with wooden elements salvaged during demolition were utilized. The resulting architecture sees new shapes dancing on an old structure, telling a story of renewal.

Throughout the project, design coincided with the construction process. During demolition the structure was observed and understood, and the concept evolved, and the correct solutions found their place. The design theme and strong organic shape of the factory machinery, combined with the original design phrase, to create a clear physical expression to each space. Concern was taken to control the design so as not to destroy the original building.

Throughout the project there was strong support from the contractor and steel technician. All parties worked closely together to discover the potential of steel architecture. Difficult details were resolved through the technical knowledge and support of the steel contractors who put forth solutions as problems were discovered on site.

Location Rama IV Road, Bangkok 190

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 190-191

Client Mee Mit Dee

Structural Engineer Sommanat Kaewpraphak

Area 790 sq. m.

Year 2013 191

11/24/14 7:46 AM

Ceiling Third Floor Plan

Lobby Celing Plan

Skin Detail and Wall Section

Stair and Railing Section

194

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 194-195

Detail

195

11/24/14 7:47 AM

Ceiling Third Floor Plan

Lobby Celing Plan

Skin Detail and Wall Section

Stair and Railing Section

194

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 194-195

Detail

195

11/24/14 7:47 AM

THE NANDA HERITAGE HOTEL CHAT ARCHITECTS AND VAROOT SAMALAPA

The Nanda Heritage Hotel sits between two opposing worlds. It’s front faces a highspeed 6-lane on-ramp that feeds one of Bangkok’s major river bridges. The back of the hotel butts up against the 100-year-old historic Puri-nayok shantytown.

In order to fuse these two worlds together the hotel adopts a strategy of creating a ‘building within a building’. One old and the other one new, one solid and the other one light, one concrete and the other one steel and wood.

This is an architecture of accretion, imprecision, improvisation, adaptability, and inherent contrasts; it is unequivocally ‘Bangkokian’.

The perimeter is a dark concrete outer shell filled with guest rooms. Its monumental six and a half story street elevation, with its horizontal ‘speed’ lines (which are functional drip edges), responds to the freeway scale and pace of the bridge onramp. These lines are also inspired by the tangles of electrical and telephone lines that are strewn above the sidewalk, absorbing the ‘messiness’ into the elevation, rather than ignoring them.

As the building ‘turns the corner’ into the side alley, its height dips to 4 levels in order to match the scale of the shop houses throughout the neighborhood. The detail of the building also responds to this urban shift - the horizontal drip edges that line the street elevation are turned 90 degrees, becoming vertical markers that acknowledge the ‘koo-hah’, or party-wall module, of the neighboring shophouses.

On the rear elevation, a portion of the building is pulled down to two stories in order to frame the neighborhood mango tree garden and shantytown roof scape.

The dark exterior zone of the building also acts as a buffer that protects the ‘secret’ courtyard at the center of the building from the noise and pollution. Once visitors walk through the wood-lined tunnel at the sidewalk of this outer shell, they enter another world. One encounters a meandering open-air circulation court, designed as a ‘continuation’ of the shantytown’s labyrinthine streets, but twists and turns in section rather than in plan.

The solidity of the dark guest room shell is contrasted by the lightness of the courtyard structure. The space is composed of thin white steel scaffolding that stitch the salvaged wood fragments together. Inspired by shantytown residents who scour the city for leftover building materials, the courtyard is likewise made up of ‘found objects’. Components of the owner’s original 100-year-old teak wood family home - doors and windows, wall siding, floorboards, staircase, handrails, and ventilation panels - were disassembled and recombined to create a hybrid space of old and new. This strategy of scavenging found objects and improvisation in design is a valuable lesson learned from the Shantytown neighbors, who out of necessity create their wonderful homemade architecture in much the same way.

Location Phra Nakorn, Bangkok

200

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 200-201

Client Nanda Heritage Hotel

Structural Engineer Boonsaeng Siriratchuwong

Area 4,000 sq. m.

Year 2014 201

11/24/14 7:47 AM

THE NANDA HERITAGE HOTEL CHAT ARCHITECTS AND VAROOT SAMALAPA

The Nanda Heritage Hotel sits between two opposing worlds. It’s front faces a highspeed 6-lane on-ramp that feeds one of Bangkok’s major river bridges. The back of the hotel butts up against the 100-year-old historic Puri-nayok shantytown.

In order to fuse these two worlds together the hotel adopts a strategy of creating a ‘building within a building’. One old and the other one new, one solid and the other one light, one concrete and the other one steel and wood.

This is an architecture of accretion, imprecision, improvisation, adaptability, and inherent contrasts; it is unequivocally ‘Bangkokian’.

The perimeter is a dark concrete outer shell filled with guest rooms. Its monumental six and a half story street elevation, with its horizontal ‘speed’ lines (which are functional drip edges), responds to the freeway scale and pace of the bridge onramp. These lines are also inspired by the tangles of electrical and telephone lines that are strewn above the sidewalk, absorbing the ‘messiness’ into the elevation, rather than ignoring them.

As the building ‘turns the corner’ into the side alley, its height dips to 4 levels in order to match the scale of the shop houses throughout the neighborhood. The detail of the building also responds to this urban shift - the horizontal drip edges that line the street elevation are turned 90 degrees, becoming vertical markers that acknowledge the ‘koo-hah’, or party-wall module, of the neighboring shophouses.

On the rear elevation, a portion of the building is pulled down to two stories in order to frame the neighborhood mango tree garden and shantytown roof scape.

The dark exterior zone of the building also acts as a buffer that protects the ‘secret’ courtyard at the center of the building from the noise and pollution. Once visitors walk through the wood-lined tunnel at the sidewalk of this outer shell, they enter another world. One encounters a meandering open-air circulation court, designed as a ‘continuation’ of the shantytown’s labyrinthine streets, but twists and turns in section rather than in plan.

The solidity of the dark guest room shell is contrasted by the lightness of the courtyard structure. The space is composed of thin white steel scaffolding that stitch the salvaged wood fragments together. Inspired by shantytown residents who scour the city for leftover building materials, the courtyard is likewise made up of ‘found objects’. Components of the owner’s original 100-year-old teak wood family home - doors and windows, wall siding, floorboards, staircase, handrails, and ventilation panels - were disassembled and recombined to create a hybrid space of old and new. This strategy of scavenging found objects and improvisation in design is a valuable lesson learned from the Shantytown neighbors, who out of necessity create their wonderful homemade architecture in much the same way.

Location Phra Nakorn, Bangkok

200

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 200-201

Client Nanda Heritage Hotel

Structural Engineer Boonsaeng Siriratchuwong

Area 4,000 sq. m.

Year 2014 201

11/24/14 7:47 AM

206

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 206-207

207

11/24/14 7:48 AM

206

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 206-207

207

11/24/14 7:48 AM

T136 – GREYHOUND CAFÉ THE CIRCLE STUDIOTOFU

Greyhound Café The Circle is a modification of a steel structure that has been meticulously adjusted using a number of material and construction techniques. After a deliberate design and construction process on the existing building structure, the office building was converted into a loft space containing vibrant activities day and night, and is now the largest of the Greyhound Cafés. Unlike other Greyhound branches located inside shopping malls, this building is stand-alone with the space activated independently of other tenants.

By considering the bar counter as a key program element, a hierarchy of space was created in order to establish the bar counter as a central node within the restaurant. Instead of providing a bar counter in the limited space of the existing 242 square meter building, the bar counter was enlarged from a furniture scale to an architectural scale. This effectively corresponded to the brief’s requirement for a 400 square meter area. Being more than a typical bar, the building was designed in the middle of the site, which embraces the hierarchy of the counter where it not only performs as the serving area, but also contains service areas including kitchen, toilets and staff room.

Greyhound Café has a concern for both practicality and the aesthetic perception of space. Each component required a solution that has been elaborated through process and deliberately forms the space for customers. The building required a curtain to reduce the strong west afternoon sun, but this would obstruct the visual connection between inside and out, which directly impacts the customer experience. To retain the visibility of space, a steel structure clad with rusting perforated steel is used as a shading device and continues as a building skin. Corresponding to the Greyhound aesthetic, a pressing technique was used to meticulously create different textures on steel sheet according to the weight applied. For Greyhound Cafe The Circle the pressing pattern mimics the pattern of a typical canvas canopy, a common characteristic of bars and bistro restaurants. Instead of preventing the steel roof from corrosion, rust was considered an aesthetic that results from the unique characteristic of the material, and one that redefines the material through time.

To enhance the customer’s visibility, a long-span structure was used with the connecting joints to columns located along the site boundary. The steel structure is covered by woven steel sheet and layered by transparent polycarbonate that allows natural light to penetrate through the waffle structure and vitalize the space beneath.

Location Ratchapruek Road, Bangkok 208

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 208-209

Client Greyhound Café

Structural Engineer Uplus Consultants

Area 513 sq. m.

Year 2012 209

11/24/14 7:48 AM

T136 – GREYHOUND CAFÉ THE CIRCLE STUDIOTOFU

Greyhound Café The Circle is a modification of a steel structure that has been meticulously adjusted using a number of material and construction techniques. After a deliberate design and construction process on the existing building structure, the office building was converted into a loft space containing vibrant activities day and night, and is now the largest of the Greyhound Cafés. Unlike other Greyhound branches located inside shopping malls, this building is stand-alone with the space activated independently of other tenants.

By considering the bar counter as a key program element, a hierarchy of space was created in order to establish the bar counter as a central node within the restaurant. Instead of providing a bar counter in the limited space of the existing 242 square meter building, the bar counter was enlarged from a furniture scale to an architectural scale. This effectively corresponded to the brief’s requirement for a 400 square meter area. Being more than a typical bar, the building was designed in the middle of the site, which embraces the hierarchy of the counter where it not only performs as the serving area, but also contains service areas including kitchen, toilets and staff room.

Greyhound Café has a concern for both practicality and the aesthetic perception of space. Each component required a solution that has been elaborated through process and deliberately forms the space for customers. The building required a curtain to reduce the strong west afternoon sun, but this would obstruct the visual connection between inside and out, which directly impacts the customer experience. To retain the visibility of space, a steel structure clad with rusting perforated steel is used as a shading device and continues as a building skin. Corresponding to the Greyhound aesthetic, a pressing technique was used to meticulously create different textures on steel sheet according to the weight applied. For Greyhound Cafe The Circle the pressing pattern mimics the pattern of a typical canvas canopy, a common characteristic of bars and bistro restaurants. Instead of preventing the steel roof from corrosion, rust was considered an aesthetic that results from the unique characteristic of the material, and one that redefines the material through time.

To enhance the customer’s visibility, a long-span structure was used with the connecting joints to columns located along the site boundary. The steel structure is covered by woven steel sheet and layered by transparent polycarbonate that allows natural light to penetrate through the waffle structure and vitalize the space beneath.

Location Ratchapruek Road, Bangkok 208

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 208-209

Client Greyhound Café

Structural Engineer Uplus Consultants

Area 513 sq. m.

Year 2012 209

11/24/14 7:48 AM

Ground Florr Plan

Mezzanine Floor Plan

Elevation

Section

M

E

Existing

Existing+Loft window

Existing+Loft window+Bar building

Existing+Loft window+Bar building+Super canopy

Existing+Loft window+Bar building+Super canopy +Hanging roof

All design features in Sun condition

N

All design features in Raining condition

Assembly

M

E

N

View from south, outdoor seatings under steel waffle roof overlap into interior space party in order to make a space better connection.

Existing+Loft window+Bar building

Existing+Loft window+Bar building+Super canopy

210

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 210-211

Existing+Loft window+Bar building+Super canopy +Hanging roof

All design features in Sun condition

All design features in Raining condition

Assembly

211

11/24/14 7:49 AM

Ground Florr Plan

Mezzanine Floor Plan

Elevation

Section

M

E

Existing

Existing+Loft window

Existing+Loft window+Bar building

Existing+Loft window+Bar building+Super canopy

Existing+Loft window+Bar building+Super canopy +Hanging roof

All design features in Sun condition

N

All design features in Raining condition

Assembly

M

E

N

View from south, outdoor seatings under steel waffle roof overlap into interior space party in order to make a space better connection.

Existing+Loft window+Bar building

Existing+Loft window+Bar building+Super canopy

210

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 210-211

Existing+Loft window+Bar building+Super canopy +Hanging roof

All design features in Sun condition

All design features in Raining condition

Assembly

211

11/24/14 7:49 AM

MET BANGKOK BISTRO STUDIO STORAGE

Located on the busy Ratchapruek Road in Bangkok, the ‘MET BANGKOK’ restaurant offers Thai fusion food and a cocktail bar. MET, short for ‘Metropolis’, suggests both a flourishing city and a place to meet.

The concept behind the massed structure was derived from an industrial theme.

The interior elements are a blend of raw materials, black metal, rusted steel, charcoal walls and hardwood surfaces. An open plan layout was chosen to create a space that can be seen as a whole. The restaurant is divided into two levels: the ground floor with dining area, bar and kitchen, and a mezzanine floor with more private seating and the impressive vertical garden, ‘Prai’, that leads up a steel staircase.

Clear glass doors and windows are installed to mark the boundary between indoor and outdoor, allowing passers-by to see inside the restaurant. Entry via the ground floor leads to the dining space and a marble cocktail bar with a seven-meter ceiling. This made it important to manage the lighting. Huge ‘Dear Ingo’ pendant lights by Ron Gilad and naked bulbs have been used to illuminate the ceiling for added warmth and ambience. The large expanse of graffiti painted brick wall, provided by Thai artists, enhances the theme by referencing the restaurant’s name, Metropolitan. The idea hints back to the 70’s when people think of innovation and modernization.

In the dining area seating is organized to give flexibility to the grouping of tables for communal eating, an approach that reflects the sharing nature of a Thai style menu. Black steel frame partitions act as dividers that help to create the more private spaces while maintaining a sense of natural flow across the open-plan design.

Location Ratchaphruek Road, Bangkok 214

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 214-215

Client Kanonchine Bangkok

Structural Engineer -

Area 330 sq. m.

Year 2014 215

11/24/14 7:49 AM

MET BANGKOK BISTRO STUDIO STORAGE

Located on the busy Ratchapruek Road in Bangkok, the ‘MET BANGKOK’ restaurant offers Thai fusion food and a cocktail bar. MET, short for ‘Metropolis’, suggests both a flourishing city and a place to meet.

The concept behind the massed structure was derived from an industrial theme.

The interior elements are a blend of raw materials, black metal, rusted steel, charcoal walls and hardwood surfaces. An open plan layout was chosen to create a space that can be seen as a whole. The restaurant is divided into two levels: the ground floor with dining area, bar and kitchen, and a mezzanine floor with more private seating and the impressive vertical garden, ‘Prai’, that leads up a steel staircase.

Clear glass doors and windows are installed to mark the boundary between indoor and outdoor, allowing passers-by to see inside the restaurant. Entry via the ground floor leads to the dining space and a marble cocktail bar with a seven-meter ceiling. This made it important to manage the lighting. Huge ‘Dear Ingo’ pendant lights by Ron Gilad and naked bulbs have been used to illuminate the ceiling for added warmth and ambience. The large expanse of graffiti painted brick wall, provided by Thai artists, enhances the theme by referencing the restaurant’s name, Metropolitan. The idea hints back to the 70’s when people think of innovation and modernization.

In the dining area seating is organized to give flexibility to the grouping of tables for communal eating, an approach that reflects the sharing nature of a Thai style menu. Black steel frame partitions act as dividers that help to create the more private spaces while maintaining a sense of natural flow across the open-plan design.

Location Ratchaphruek Road, Bangkok 214

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 214-215

Client Kanonchine Bangkok

Structural Engineer -

Area 330 sq. m.

Year 2014 215

11/24/14 7:49 AM

218

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 218-219

219

11/24/14 7:50 AM

218

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 218-219

219

11/24/14 7:50 AM

SIAM SQUARE ONE

THE OFFICE OF BANGKOK ARCHITECT (OBA) Located in the heart of Siam Square, one of Bangkok’s trendiest shopping districts, next to a university campus, the Siam Square One project reveals the design competition-winning proposal for Chulalongkorn University's development.

The intention of the project is to dissolve the boundary between the public realm and private property. In order to achieve this the building was designed to be a passage. A gentle-sloped walkway is designed as the main walking street connecting the sky train interchange station platform to the street level inside Siam Square.

The project's main target group ranges from high school students to college students. These users embrace energetic, lively, non-uniform, and unorthodox attributes. These characteristics determined the 'Deconstruction' concept of the architecture. This is represented through a variety of circulation routes, dynamic spaces within the building, and the overall architectural language that produces the energy and reflects the diverse characteristics of youth.

The building is separated into 4 blocks to allow natural ventilation. The consequence of this separation and the open-air concept is reminiscent of the original Siam Square ambience, but also created an opportunity to insert multi-level landscape courtyards within the building. The 2 underground levels occupied by small shops are air-conditioned, while the main 7 levels above are open-air.

Location Siam Square Shopping District, Bangkok 222

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 222-223

Client -

Structural Engineer -

Area 70,000 sq. m.

Year 2014 223

11/24/14 7:50 AM

SIAM SQUARE ONE

THE OFFICE OF BANGKOK ARCHITECT (OBA) Located in the heart of Siam Square, one of Bangkok’s trendiest shopping districts, next to a university campus, the Siam Square One project reveals the design competition-winning proposal for Chulalongkorn University's development.

The intention of the project is to dissolve the boundary between the public realm and private property. In order to achieve this the building was designed to be a passage. A gentle-sloped walkway is designed as the main walking street connecting the sky train interchange station platform to the street level inside Siam Square.

The project's main target group ranges from high school students to college students. These users embrace energetic, lively, non-uniform, and unorthodox attributes. These characteristics determined the 'Deconstruction' concept of the architecture. This is represented through a variety of circulation routes, dynamic spaces within the building, and the overall architectural language that produces the energy and reflects the diverse characteristics of youth.

The building is separated into 4 blocks to allow natural ventilation. The consequence of this separation and the open-air concept is reminiscent of the original Siam Square ambience, but also created an opportunity to insert multi-level landscape courtyards within the building. The 2 underground levels occupied by small shops are air-conditioned, while the main 7 levels above are open-air.

Location Siam Square Shopping District, Bangkok 222

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 222-223

Client -

Structural Engineer -

Area 70,000 sq. m.

Year 2014 223

11/24/14 7:50 AM

4

2

1

2

1

2

1 1

1

2

2

2

+42.97

+37.78 +34.10 +30.20 +25.20 +20.20 +15.20 +10.20 +5.20 +0.60 -3.90 -7.90

+35.20 +30.20 +25.20 +20.20 +15.20 +10.20 +5.20 +0.60

224

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 224-225

225

11/24/14 7:50 AM

4

2

1

2

1

2

1 1

1

2

2

2

+42.97

+37.78 +34.10 +30.20 +25.20 +20.20 +15.20 +10.20 +5.20 +0.60 -3.90 -7.90

+35.20 +30.20 +25.20 +20.20 +15.20 +10.20 +5.20 +0.60

224

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 224-225

225

11/24/14 7:50 AM

SEACON BANGKAE ARCHITECTS 49

Under new ownership, this worn out shopping center located in the southwest of Bangkok was transformed into a new mall. Both the façade and the interior were remodeled creating a completely new image for the building. The innovative façade generates a new vibe for the surrounding area, with the appealing design and use of bright color attracting shoppers.

As this was a renovation project, most of the existing structure had to be preserved. In addition, a limited budget influenced many of the design decisions. The architects and engineers ensured appropriate construction methods were adopted, while confirming the existing structure was capable of taking the new façade load.

Early in the design phase it was discovered that the existing hollow precast concrete walls weren’t strong enough to hold up the new façade, so additional support was needed. Steel was selected due to its durable and lightweight qualities. Vertical supporting steel members were inserted behind the precast wall to strengthen the structure. Orange painted aluminium composite panel was used for the façade, allowing the building to be visible from a distance. Gaps between different panels were intentionally formed to enable light into the building interior. The resulting undulating façade lightens the building as a whole and enhances the atmosphere of the surrounding area.

Location Petchkasem Road, Bangkok 230

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 230-231

Client Seacon Development

Structural Engineer CEDA

Area 2,000-3,000 sq. m.

Year 2013 231

11/24/14 7:51 AM

SEACON BANGKAE ARCHITECTS 49

Under new ownership, this worn out shopping center located in the southwest of Bangkok was transformed into a new mall. Both the façade and the interior were remodeled creating a completely new image for the building. The innovative façade generates a new vibe for the surrounding area, with the appealing design and use of bright color attracting shoppers.

As this was a renovation project, most of the existing structure had to be preserved. In addition, a limited budget influenced many of the design decisions. The architects and engineers ensured appropriate construction methods were adopted, while confirming the existing structure was capable of taking the new façade load.

Early in the design phase it was discovered that the existing hollow precast concrete walls weren’t strong enough to hold up the new façade, so additional support was needed. Steel was selected due to its durable and lightweight qualities. Vertical supporting steel members were inserted behind the precast wall to strengthen the structure. Orange painted aluminium composite panel was used for the façade, allowing the building to be visible from a distance. Gaps between different panels were intentionally formed to enable light into the building interior. The resulting undulating façade lightens the building as a whole and enhances the atmosphere of the surrounding area.

Location Petchkasem Road, Bangkok 230

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 230-231

Client Seacon Development

Structural Engineer CEDA

Area 2,000-3,000 sq. m.

Year 2013 231

11/24/14 7:51 AM

232

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 232-233

233

11/24/14 7:51 AM

232

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 232-233

233

11/24/14 7:51 AM

STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER SUPERMACHINE STUDIO

SAC (Student Activity Center) is one of the most challenging projects that Supermachine studio has undertaken for Bangkok University. Not only due to the complexity of the program but also because the 2,200 square meter project required the reuse of an existing dormitory building.

SAC consists of diverse facility space, mainly for out-of-classroom activities. The program includes a photo studio, music rehearsal room, Thai dance club, over 20 faculty rooms, meeting rooms, and a cheer leader training hall.

The entire program had to be accommodated into the existing structure of a building that was not originally designed for this purpose. The old building was a 32 compact room dormitory inserted with 12 compact courtyards. The 90-meter long building was low, dark and damaged from the great Thailand flood of 2011. The main operation was to merge 2 gable roofs into a new single roof with a new structure to make the space more liveable for the increasing number of users. The outer skin of the building was re-clad with a single material - cedar shingles. Half of the inner spaces were kept intact but repainted systematically, the existing corridor is yellow while 4 of the voids are modified, made public and painted different colors; purple, green, pink and turquoise. Natural light is brought in through the void skylights to ensure that the new space is bright. At the rear end of the building is a completely new structure, as it has to house the BU POM POM club. The 16 meter high gym is the new training ground for the famous cheerleader team of Bangkok University.

Given the nickname ‘Toblerone’ during development, SAC has been transformed from a simple program dorm into a complex programmed public building compressed into one long form.

Location Bangkok University, Rangsit Campus, Pathumthani 238

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 238-239

Client Bangkok University

Structural Engineer Thai Obayashi

Area 2,200 sq. m.

Year 2013 239

11/24/14 7:52 AM

STUDENT ACTIVITY CENTER SUPERMACHINE STUDIO

SAC (Student Activity Center) is one of the most challenging projects that Supermachine studio has undertaken for Bangkok University. Not only due to the complexity of the program but also because the 2,200 square meter project required the reuse of an existing dormitory building.

SAC consists of diverse facility space, mainly for out-of-classroom activities. The program includes a photo studio, music rehearsal room, Thai dance club, over 20 faculty rooms, meeting rooms, and a cheer leader training hall.

The entire program had to be accommodated into the existing structure of a building that was not originally designed for this purpose. The old building was a 32 compact room dormitory inserted with 12 compact courtyards. The 90-meter long building was low, dark and damaged from the great Thailand flood of 2011. The main operation was to merge 2 gable roofs into a new single roof with a new structure to make the space more liveable for the increasing number of users. The outer skin of the building was re-clad with a single material - cedar shingles. Half of the inner spaces were kept intact but repainted systematically, the existing corridor is yellow while 4 of the voids are modified, made public and painted different colors; purple, green, pink and turquoise. Natural light is brought in through the void skylights to ensure that the new space is bright. At the rear end of the building is a completely new structure, as it has to house the BU POM POM club. The 16 meter high gym is the new training ground for the famous cheerleader team of Bangkok University.

Given the nickname ‘Toblerone’ during development, SAC has been transformed from a simple program dorm into a complex programmed public building compressed into one long form.

Location Bangkok University, Rangsit Campus, Pathumthani 238

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 238-239

Client Bangkok University

Structural Engineer Thai Obayashi

Area 2,200 sq. m.

Year 2013 239

11/24/14 7:52 AM

Ground Floor Plan

Second Floor Plan

240

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 240-241

241

11/24/14 7:52 AM

Ground Floor Plan

Second Floor Plan

240

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 240-241

241

11/24/14 7:52 AM

THE KUKRIT INSTITUTE DE-SIGN SCIENCE

The Kukrit Institute serves people of all ages and its large spatial volume accommodates diverse public activities and movement. The building encompasses the flexibility of a modern structure alongside the concept of a unitized system that characterizes traditional Thai art, craft and architecture. The space responds to free movement and accessibility from all three sides of the site with the main focus on the side adjacent a public park. Triangular in shape, the buildings and the site echo each other’s elements from the details of the aluminium fins to the spatial parcels of indoor landscaping. The Thai appreciation of triangular shapes is expressed in many everyday objects and is articulated here in the strong shape of the building.

The institute comprises two semi-enclosed buildings: the main exhibition building, and a 200-seat auditorium. Long-span structures are used in places where gatherings take place. The steel structure makes various openings in the roof possible in order to bring light down to the ground floor indoor gardens from openings in the first floor terraces. Inner courtyards connecting the floors resemble indoor courtyard spaces in traditional Thai houses and create atmospheric scenes. The merging of the indoor and the outdoor space was achieved by blurring the edges of the building with openings in the roof, walls and floors. Sharp and luminous steel materials elusively reflect and camouflage the building’s geometry in both sunlight and under artificial lighting. One of the large roof openings loosely defines an external room for the statue of M.R. Kukrit Pramoj that overlooks the public park at the junction of two major pedestrian routes.

Composite materials such as custom-made resin shells, copper-color aluminium panels and multi-shaded green acrylic tiles used respectively on columns, roof and exterior fins follow the traditional Thai architectural concept of prefabricated components. Primary architectural elements such as exterior aluminium fins, stepped ceilings, glass and aluminium exhibition rooms and the building's terraces are arranged to respond to the simple arrangement of grid lines and roof trusses. Patterns visible on these elements emphasize the simplicity and standard building products.

Maintenance and replacement of these materials will be straightforward.

Steel structures are hidden inside the trapezoidal pattern of the aluminium fins that become ‘translucent skins’ along the perimeter of the building. Following the same trapezoidal patterns, these supporting structures are kept to a minimum and are supported by an occasional ‘touch’ between the columns and the roof steel trusses. The concept of ‘skin’ is matched by lightness in terms of construction and is also a concession to the practicality of steel-based materials that cleanly and efficiently shade the building during the day and shimmer with light reflections at night. The building moves with changing times using simple composite and steel structures and materials in place of wood while still addressing the everlasting Thai notion of flexibility of social space in the built environment.

Location Sathorn, Bangkok

246

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 246-247

Client Kukrit 80 Foundation

Structural Engineer SEATEC

Area 4,210 sq. m.

Year 2011 247

11/24/14 7:53 AM

THE KUKRIT INSTITUTE DE-SIGN SCIENCE

The Kukrit Institute serves people of all ages and its large spatial volume accommodates diverse public activities and movement. The building encompasses the flexibility of a modern structure alongside the concept of a unitized system that characterizes traditional Thai art, craft and architecture. The space responds to free movement and accessibility from all three sides of the site with the main focus on the side adjacent a public park. Triangular in shape, the buildings and the site echo each other’s elements from the details of the aluminium fins to the spatial parcels of indoor landscaping. The Thai appreciation of triangular shapes is expressed in many everyday objects and is articulated here in the strong shape of the building.

The institute comprises two semi-enclosed buildings: the main exhibition building, and a 200-seat auditorium. Long-span structures are used in places where gatherings take place. The steel structure makes various openings in the roof possible in order to bring light down to the ground floor indoor gardens from openings in the first floor terraces. Inner courtyards connecting the floors resemble indoor courtyard spaces in traditional Thai houses and create atmospheric scenes. The merging of the indoor and the outdoor space was achieved by blurring the edges of the building with openings in the roof, walls and floors. Sharp and luminous steel materials elusively reflect and camouflage the building’s geometry in both sunlight and under artificial lighting. One of the large roof openings loosely defines an external room for the statue of M.R. Kukrit Pramoj that overlooks the public park at the junction of two major pedestrian routes.

Composite materials such as custom-made resin shells, copper-color aluminium panels and multi-shaded green acrylic tiles used respectively on columns, roof and exterior fins follow the traditional Thai architectural concept of prefabricated components. Primary architectural elements such as exterior aluminium fins, stepped ceilings, glass and aluminium exhibition rooms and the building's terraces are arranged to respond to the simple arrangement of grid lines and roof trusses. Patterns visible on these elements emphasize the simplicity and standard building products.

Maintenance and replacement of these materials will be straightforward.

Steel structures are hidden inside the trapezoidal pattern of the aluminium fins that become ‘translucent skins’ along the perimeter of the building. Following the same trapezoidal patterns, these supporting structures are kept to a minimum and are supported by an occasional ‘touch’ between the columns and the roof steel trusses. The concept of ‘skin’ is matched by lightness in terms of construction and is also a concession to the practicality of steel-based materials that cleanly and efficiently shade the building during the day and shimmer with light reflections at night. The building moves with changing times using simple composite and steel structures and materials in place of wood while still addressing the everlasting Thai notion of flexibility of social space in the built environment.

Location Sathorn, Bangkok

246

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 246-247

Client Kukrit 80 Foundation

Structural Engineer SEATEC

Area 4,210 sq. m.

Year 2011 247

11/24/14 7:53 AM

Floor Plan

Elevation

Section

Detail

248

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 248-249

249

11/24/14 7:53 AM

Floor Plan

Elevation

Section

Detail

248

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 248-249

249

11/24/14 7:53 AM

SASABHUMI INTERNATIONAL LEARNING CENTER (SILC) ARCHITECTS 49

The Sasabhumi International Learning Centre is set in the tranquil and natural environment of Thanoon, Phang-nga, on a site ornamented with flora. The project program consists of a reception lobby, classrooms and seaside accommodation for teachers. The site has a predominantly flat topography that extends from the beach, and is a protected ‘Sea Turtle Sanctuary’ where sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. A spectacular range of flourishing plants are scattered throughout the site and the design intention was to respect the natural setting and devise a layout and design that coincided with the site’s remarkable ecosystem.

The first 100 meters of shoreline is constrained by a setback and therefore is building-free, creating a peaceful and serene beachfront. All vegetation was retained, as was the moderately sloping and recessed topography. Beyond the 100m setback begins a cluster of delicate buildings that provide accommodation for the teachers. The classrooms and reception building are nestled among clusters of trees that provide acoustic barriers and light screening between the buildings. The strategic positioning also ensures the least possible impact on the beachfront area, both visually and physically. The buildings were laid out behind one another in order to form wind barriers for each other so as to reduce the effects of the strong ocean gusts.

Since the sea turtle is a symbolic icon of the site’s natural environment, it was used in the design concept of the reception lobby roof. Although a wide span roof, the structure did not employ the use of roof trusses but rather a series of steel tube roof struts inspired by traditional bridge construction methods found in Bhutan. The steel structure is proudly exposed, emulating the branches of a tree like those that surround the building. Beyond the reception lobby, the path leads towards the cluster of classroom buildings that seamlessly blend in among the site’s vegetation. The result is a learning centre resting in a nature reserve inhabited by rare and diverse plants, which through conservation have become a unique symbol of the site.

Location Takua Thung, Phang-nga.

254

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 254-255

Client Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration of Chulalongkorn University

Structural Engineer Architectural Engineering 49

Area 5,900 sq. m.

Year 2014 255

11/24/14 7:54 AM

SASABHUMI INTERNATIONAL LEARNING CENTER (SILC) ARCHITECTS 49

The Sasabhumi International Learning Centre is set in the tranquil and natural environment of Thanoon, Phang-nga, on a site ornamented with flora. The project program consists of a reception lobby, classrooms and seaside accommodation for teachers. The site has a predominantly flat topography that extends from the beach, and is a protected ‘Sea Turtle Sanctuary’ where sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. A spectacular range of flourishing plants are scattered throughout the site and the design intention was to respect the natural setting and devise a layout and design that coincided with the site’s remarkable ecosystem.

The first 100 meters of shoreline is constrained by a setback and therefore is building-free, creating a peaceful and serene beachfront. All vegetation was retained, as was the moderately sloping and recessed topography. Beyond the 100m setback begins a cluster of delicate buildings that provide accommodation for the teachers. The classrooms and reception building are nestled among clusters of trees that provide acoustic barriers and light screening between the buildings. The strategic positioning also ensures the least possible impact on the beachfront area, both visually and physically. The buildings were laid out behind one another in order to form wind barriers for each other so as to reduce the effects of the strong ocean gusts.

Since the sea turtle is a symbolic icon of the site’s natural environment, it was used in the design concept of the reception lobby roof. Although a wide span roof, the structure did not employ the use of roof trusses but rather a series of steel tube roof struts inspired by traditional bridge construction methods found in Bhutan. The steel structure is proudly exposed, emulating the branches of a tree like those that surround the building. Beyond the reception lobby, the path leads towards the cluster of classroom buildings that seamlessly blend in among the site’s vegetation. The result is a learning centre resting in a nature reserve inhabited by rare and diverse plants, which through conservation have become a unique symbol of the site.

Location Takua Thung, Phang-nga.

254

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 254-255

Client Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Administration of Chulalongkorn University

Structural Engineer Architectural Engineering 49

Area 5,900 sq. m.

Year 2014 255

11/24/14 7:54 AM

260

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 260-261

261

11/24/14 7:55 AM

260

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 260-261

261

11/24/14 7:55 AM

MINGMONGKOL GREENPARK ARCHITECT 49

Ming Mongkol Green Park implements the ‘Sustainable Living’ philosophy developed under the Royal Initiative of His Majesty the King. This philosophy is most clearly portrayed in The King’s 84th Anniversary Memorial Hall and the OTOP Kiosk.

In these buildings the structural components act as aesthetic elements alongside the other architectural components. The façades were designed to reveal the steel structure within, simultaneously expressing their double function of strength and beauty.

From the early design stages minimizing energy consumption was a key concern.

By applying a second skin façade of vertical fins, solar heat gain has been significantly reduced; this in turn reduces the requirement for cooling within the building.

In addition, the creation of a high ceiling space allows any internal heat gain to be collected and discharged through a stack effect. To supplement this effect, natural ventilation is introduced through doors across the space.

The designers had a strong intention to integrate function, aesthetics and sustainability seamlessly into the project. The result is a highly efficient building that clearly articulates its core philosophy.

Location Thap Kwang, Saraburi

262

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 262-263

Client Siam City Cement

Structural Engineer Architectural Engineering 49

Area 693.50 sq. m.

Year 2013 263

11/24/14 7:55 AM

MINGMONGKOL GREENPARK ARCHITECT 49

Ming Mongkol Green Park implements the ‘Sustainable Living’ philosophy developed under the Royal Initiative of His Majesty the King. This philosophy is most clearly portrayed in The King’s 84th Anniversary Memorial Hall and the OTOP Kiosk.

In these buildings the structural components act as aesthetic elements alongside the other architectural components. The façades were designed to reveal the steel structure within, simultaneously expressing their double function of strength and beauty.

From the early design stages minimizing energy consumption was a key concern.

By applying a second skin façade of vertical fins, solar heat gain has been significantly reduced; this in turn reduces the requirement for cooling within the building.

In addition, the creation of a high ceiling space allows any internal heat gain to be collected and discharged through a stack effect. To supplement this effect, natural ventilation is introduced through doors across the space.

The designers had a strong intention to integrate function, aesthetics and sustainability seamlessly into the project. The result is a highly efficient building that clearly articulates its core philosophy.

Location Thap Kwang, Saraburi

262

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 262-263

Client Siam City Cement

Structural Engineer Architectural Engineering 49

Area 693.50 sq. m.

Year 2013 263

11/24/14 7:55 AM

Roof Floor Plan

First Floor Plan

Elevation

Section

Detail

266

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 266-267

267

11/24/14 7:55 AM

Roof Floor Plan

First Floor Plan

Elevation

Section

Detail

266

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 266-267

267

11/24/14 7:55 AM

PHISITKUL PAVILION, WAT CHOLLAPRATARN RANGSARIT VORRARAT SUPACHOKE ARCHITECT

Phisitkul Pavilion (Phisitkul Kiosk) is located near the old water well in the southern area of Wat Chollapratarn Rangsarit. The Phisitkul family built it in remembrance of Mr. Songkiet Phisitkul. Following his intention, the kiosk was devotedly given to the temple as a social contribution for educational use and religious services.

The architect depicts the implementation of the 4 Types Lotus Philosophy from the Buddhist scriptures as the core design concept.

The architecture itself contains fewer detail elements than is typical in traditional religious architecture. It reflects the modern trend toward a plain white color and simple decoration in order to allow the heart of its structure, the steel column & beam system, to present a softer character through its curves & joints.

By employing a steel structure the building’s internal space embodies a feeling of lightness, as space is connected through the voids within the steel structure.

A series of windows allow both direct light and indirect natural light reflected from the surrounding pond to enhance the relationship between shadow and light, lotus and water, strengthening the core design concept.

Location Pak Kret, Nonthaburi

270

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 270-271

Client Phisitkul Family

Structural Engineer VSCT Engineering

Area 384.80 sq. m.

Year 2013 271

11/24/14 7:56 AM

PHISITKUL PAVILION, WAT CHOLLAPRATARN RANGSARIT VORRARAT SUPACHOKE ARCHITECT

Phisitkul Pavilion (Phisitkul Kiosk) is located near the old water well in the southern area of Wat Chollapratarn Rangsarit. The Phisitkul family built it in remembrance of Mr. Songkiet Phisitkul. Following his intention, the kiosk was devotedly given to the temple as a social contribution for educational use and religious services.

The architect depicts the implementation of the 4 Types Lotus Philosophy from the Buddhist scriptures as the core design concept.

The architecture itself contains fewer detail elements than is typical in traditional religious architecture. It reflects the modern trend toward a plain white color and simple decoration in order to allow the heart of its structure, the steel column & beam system, to present a softer character through its curves & joints.

By employing a steel structure the building’s internal space embodies a feeling of lightness, as space is connected through the voids within the steel structure.

A series of windows allow both direct light and indirect natural light reflected from the surrounding pond to enhance the relationship between shadow and light, lotus and water, strengthening the core design concept.

Location Pak Kret, Nonthaburi

270

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 270-271

Client Phisitkul Family

Structural Engineer VSCT Engineering

Area 384.80 sq. m.

Year 2013 271

11/24/14 7:56 AM

VSa

Project : Phisitkul Pavillion ( Phisitkul Kiosk)

Project : Phisitkul Pavillion ( Phisitkul Kiosk)

274

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 274-275

Vorrarat Supachoke Architect Company Limited

VSa

Vorrarat Supachoke Architect Company Limited

275

11/24/14 7:56 AM

VSa

Project : Phisitkul Pavillion ( Phisitkul Kiosk)

Project : Phisitkul Pavillion ( Phisitkul Kiosk)

274

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 274-275

Vorrarat Supachoke Architect Company Limited

VSa

Vorrarat Supachoke Architect Company Limited

275

11/24/14 7:56 AM

PRINCE MAHIDOL HALL ARCHITECTS 49

The design priority for Prince Mahidol Hall was the creation of a symbolic landmark structure for Mahidol University. The brief required a cultural venue with full functional capabilities to host diverse events from symphonic concerts and performances to international level conferences. The structure of the human body and the skeleton of a leaf inspired the building’s unique architectural form. Overlaying this conceptual backbone is the delicacy of traditional Thai architecture. The auditorium is designed to be a column-free space with a high clearance ceiling. This extra space not only houses special stage equipment but is also a method to achieve the optimal acoustic conditions.

Steel was selected to support the large concert hall because of its efficiency in achieving the long spans required. Due to the enormous scale of the steel roof, structural engineers designed prefabricated rectangular tube rafters using 25-millimeter thick steel plates. Angular steel columns attached to reinforced concrete columns support these huge rafters. Due to the curved plan and sloped roof, each and every column span has its own unique dimension, which made it more convenient for the roof structure to be installed on site with mobile cranes. The span had to be measured precisely before the installation process, as the symmetry of the roof required an exact connection between rafters. Each roof panel contains straight steel purlins installed at different angles to create a gentle twisting effect and a dramatic form. Cross bracing is also added to each panel to increase strength in the structure.

The lobby was designed to show off its steel structure of stairs and elevated corridors that circulate through the different levels. The corridors are hung on steel rods from steel rafters in order to create a column free space along both sides of the lobby. When viewed from outside, through the curtain glass wall, the stairs and corridors appear as light steel structures floating in a glass box.

Prince Mahidol Hall marks an emblematic structure and landmark to Mahidol University. The long span steel rib design maximizes the interior space where the skeleton of the building is made visible from both the exterior and interior views.

With the help of theatre consultants and acoustic specialists, the hall was designed to create the highest acoustic quality possible. The spectacular design and function has allowed the hall to gain a growing international reputation that attracts worldclass guest performances.

278

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 278-279

Location Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), Phutthamonthon, Nakhonpathom

Client Mahidol University

Structural Engineer Architectural Engineering 49

Area 31,500 sq. m.

Year 2014 279

11/24/14 7:57 AM

PRINCE MAHIDOL HALL ARCHITECTS 49

The design priority for Prince Mahidol Hall was the creation of a symbolic landmark structure for Mahidol University. The brief required a cultural venue with full functional capabilities to host diverse events from symphonic concerts and performances to international level conferences. The structure of the human body and the skeleton of a leaf inspired the building’s unique architectural form. Overlaying this conceptual backbone is the delicacy of traditional Thai architecture. The auditorium is designed to be a column-free space with a high clearance ceiling. This extra space not only houses special stage equipment but is also a method to achieve the optimal acoustic conditions.

Steel was selected to support the large concert hall because of its efficiency in achieving the long spans required. Due to the enormous scale of the steel roof, structural engineers designed prefabricated rectangular tube rafters using 25-millimeter thick steel plates. Angular steel columns attached to reinforced concrete columns support these huge rafters. Due to the curved plan and sloped roof, each and every column span has its own unique dimension, which made it more convenient for the roof structure to be installed on site with mobile cranes. The span had to be measured precisely before the installation process, as the symmetry of the roof required an exact connection between rafters. Each roof panel contains straight steel purlins installed at different angles to create a gentle twisting effect and a dramatic form. Cross bracing is also added to each panel to increase strength in the structure.

The lobby was designed to show off its steel structure of stairs and elevated corridors that circulate through the different levels. The corridors are hung on steel rods from steel rafters in order to create a column free space along both sides of the lobby. When viewed from outside, through the curtain glass wall, the stairs and corridors appear as light steel structures floating in a glass box.

Prince Mahidol Hall marks an emblematic structure and landmark to Mahidol University. The long span steel rib design maximizes the interior space where the skeleton of the building is made visible from both the exterior and interior views.

With the help of theatre consultants and acoustic specialists, the hall was designed to create the highest acoustic quality possible. The spectacular design and function has allowed the hall to gain a growing international reputation that attracts worldclass guest performances.

278

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 278-279

Location Mahidol University (Salaya Campus), Phutthamonthon, Nakhonpathom

Client Mahidol University

Structural Engineer Architectural Engineering 49

Area 31,500 sq. m.

Year 2014 279

11/24/14 7:57 AM

1st Floor Plan

Layout

2nd Floor Plan

Elevation

3rd Floor Plan

Section

Elevation

280

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 280-281

281

11/24/14 7:58 AM

1st Floor Plan

Layout

2nd Floor Plan

Elevation

3rd Floor Plan

Section

Elevation

280

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 280-281

281

11/24/14 7:58 AM

THE MRT PURPLE LINE PROJECT, BANG YAI-BANG SUE SECTION DESIGN CONCEPTS

The MRT Purple Line will be running from the new Transportation Hub in Bang Sue to the western suburb of Bangkok in Bang Yai. It will cover a distance of 23 kilometers with 16 main stations that include Khlong Bang Phai, Talad Bang Yai, Phra Nang Klao Bridge, Nonthaburi Civic Center, Ministry of Public Health, and Tao Poon, which is the interchange station with the MRT Blue Line.

Although the main structure of the Purple Line stations consist of predominantly heavy concrete viaduct construction, steel structures have been used extensively for roofing on both the platform and concourse levels. Steel allows a maximum span from a minimum amount of material; therefore it was suitable for the roof structure and glass wall support structure at the station’s entrance. The simple steel structure also reduces the massive appearance of the station.

Location Purple Line, Bangkok - Nonthaburi 286

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 286-287

Client Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), Ministry of Transport

Structural Engineer Asian Engineering Consultants Corp., P B ASIA, Pacific Consultants International, Thai Engineering Consultants, DE-Consult Deutsche EisenbahnConsulting GmbH, Wisit Engineering Consultants

Area Interchange Station 22,500 sq.m., Intermediate Station 7,300 sq.m.

Year 2015

287

11/24/14 7:58 AM

THE MRT PURPLE LINE PROJECT, BANG YAI-BANG SUE SECTION DESIGN CONCEPTS

The MRT Purple Line will be running from the new Transportation Hub in Bang Sue to the western suburb of Bangkok in Bang Yai. It will cover a distance of 23 kilometers with 16 main stations that include Khlong Bang Phai, Talad Bang Yai, Phra Nang Klao Bridge, Nonthaburi Civic Center, Ministry of Public Health, and Tao Poon, which is the interchange station with the MRT Blue Line.

Although the main structure of the Purple Line stations consist of predominantly heavy concrete viaduct construction, steel structures have been used extensively for roofing on both the platform and concourse levels. Steel allows a maximum span from a minimum amount of material; therefore it was suitable for the roof structure and glass wall support structure at the station’s entrance. The simple steel structure also reduces the massive appearance of the station.

Location Purple Line, Bangkok - Nonthaburi 286

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 286-287

Client Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), Ministry of Transport

Structural Engineer Asian Engineering Consultants Corp., P B ASIA, Pacific Consultants International, Thai Engineering Consultants, DE-Consult Deutsche EisenbahnConsulting GmbH, Wisit Engineering Consultants

Area Interchange Station 22,500 sq.m., Intermediate Station 7,300 sq.m.

Year 2015

287

11/24/14 7:58 AM

Typical section drawings of MRTA Purple Line Station

288

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 288-289

289

11/24/14 7:58 AM

Typical section drawings of MRTA Purple Line Station

288

Thailand Architecture in Steel 3.indd 288-289

289

11/24/14 7:58 AM