A Conversation With Smith Obayawat
T
he Office of Bangkok Architects, better known as OBA, are masters of distinctive architectural designs across Thailand and beyond. Founder, Principal and Managing Director of OBA, Smith Obayawat fuses form with function, creating a structure of contemporary sophistication. A wellknown lecturer and leading figure in Thai architecture circles, Smith Obayawat is renowned for his rich portfolio of boutique hotels, commercial properties and exclusive country clubs. He has won numerous awards as well as the design competition for the Thailand Pavilion at Expo Milano 2015. OBA’s services include large-scale urban designs, retail & mixed-use shopping centers, cinema complexes and other entertainment venues, as well as residential developments and luxury resorts. Their projects can be found in over 10 countries, Including
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Thailand, China, Italy, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and the Bahamas. In the Hua Hin area, Smith and OBA have designed the Veranda Residence Hua Hin, currently under construction in Koh Takiab. It is the sixth and latest project he’s done for Veranda. OBA has also designed the Banyan Golf Club and the hotels V-Villas, Villa Maroc & the Veranda Resort and Spa Hua Hin Cha Am. This magazine’s last two issues featured Smith/OBA designed hotels in our monthly “Let’s Stay” feature, the Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit and the Veranda High Resort in Chiang Mai. Built on a grassy incline at the intersection of Sathorn and Rama IV, SO Sofitel Bangkok, some say, is Smith Obayawat’s masterpiece. Like a treasured hardback book with both covers equally intricate, SO Sofitel
Bangkok presents two façades on both major roads. The tower, with differing metallic shades and shifting glazed and solid panels, creates the sensual illusion of curves. In contrast, the tower sits upon a glass, zinc and stone podium with strong, clear definition, surrounded by shallow pools. Lava stone columns rise up at the ground floor entrance. Ascending to the ninthfloor lobby, guests are greeted by panoramic views of Lumpini Park. Both within the podium and the tower, airy three-storey atriums reveal elevated bridges and innovative spaces for relaxation. Higher up, rooftop restaurants, sky terraces and alfresco dining ensure sweeping views of the city and the park below. This month, HOT Magazine is thrilled to sit down with Smith Obayawat to discuss his life, his journey & his passions.
