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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Create An Artist Retreat in Urban Bangkok

Authors:
Siu Woo Wong, Simon Chaw Ming Lee
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Create An Artist Retreat in Urban Bangkok

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles contrasting against expansive glass facades, this urban retreat transforms creative expression into an interactive experience while providing dedicated spaces for artists to live and collaborate.
5 key facts about this project
01
The retreat incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used throughout, promoting sustainability and structural efficiency.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes natural light while creating dynamic interior spaces.
04
Public art installations are integrated into the building's exterior, fostering community engagement.
05
Flexible studio layouts allow artists to adapt their workspaces for various creative practices.
The Bangkok Artist's Retreat is an architectural project designed to serve as a sanctuary for artists and a hub for creative collaboration. Located within the vibrant urban fabric of Bangkok, this retreat merges the concepts of art, community, and sustainability in an innovative architectural solution aimed at enhancing cultural expression. The project represents not only a physical space but also a profound commitment to making art accessible to a wider audience, blurring the lines between public and private engagements with creativity.

Functionality is at the core of the design, with the retreat set to accommodate a variety of artistic practices. This includes dedicated artist studios, workshops, exhibition spaces, and communal areas for collaboration and leisurely social gatherings. The inclusion of these diverse environments allows for a dynamic interplay between individual artistic development and collective community engagement. By fostering interactions among artists, as well as between artists and the public, the retreat creates an ecosystem that nurtures creativity while promoting cultural dialogue within the city.

Important details of the project are rooted in its architectural design and materiality. The structure features an undulating silhouette, characterized by varying floor levels that respond to the urban landscape. This movement creates open terraces that encourage outdoor interaction and provide expansive views of the surrounding environment. Each floor serves a distinct purpose, enhancing the retreat's functionality. The ground floor is strategically designed to include public-facing spaces such as a café and exhibition area, serving as an entry point for visitors and facilitating the flow of foot traffic.

The carefully chosen materials contribute significantly to the building's identity. Concrete is employed for its durability and modern aesthetic, complemented by expansive glass façades that ensure natural light floods interior spaces. Wood elements are thoughtfully integrated into communal areas, providing warmth and an inviting atmosphere. Steel structural components enhance the visual language of contemporary architecture while ensuring the necessary support for the varied spaces within the retreat. The thoughtful amalgamation of these materials speaks to the project’s commitment to both modern design principles and the tactile qualities that make the interior environment inviting.

Unique design approaches within the Bangkok Artist's Retreat include the back street concept, which emphasizes connectivity and accessibility. The project encourages artistic expression to permeate the adjacent public spaces, allowing for installations and activities that engage the community beyond the building’s confines. This thoughtful integration provides artists with both a private sanctuary for creation and a public platform for showcasing their work to a broader audience.

Moreover, the architectural layout fosters flexibility, allowing spaces to adapt to various uses—from intimate workshops to larger public events. This adaptability is integral to the retreat's mission of supporting diverse artistic practices and community interaction. As a result, the design encourages continuous engagement with creativity, making it an essential part of the urban narrative in Bangkok.

The Bangkok Artist's Retreat ultimately represents an evolved understanding of how architecture can shape a community's cultural identity. By thoughtfully considering the interaction between artists, the public, and the built environment, the project exemplifies a holistic approach to architectural design. The retreat serves as a vital cultural landmark that aligns with the spirit of Bangkok, inviting individuals to explore an enriched artistic landscape. For those interested in learning more about the project, including architectural plans, sections, and design philosophies, a detailed presentation awaits your exploration. Dive deeper into the unique architectural ideas and elements that define this significant project in the heart of Bangkok.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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