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Floating Structure of Transparent Glass and Sustainable Concrete Celebrating Textile Heritage

Authors:
Manuel Alejandro De La O Lacunza, Miguel Francisco GÓmez Brito, Alejandro GutiÉrrez HernÁndez, Berenice PelÁez Suero
Floating Structure of Transparent Glass and Sustainable Concrete Celebrating Textile Heritage
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A floating structure, crafted from transparent glass and robust concrete, integrates educational facilities with a rich textile heritage to create a dynamic hub for fashion and cultural exchange.
5 key facts about this project
01
A floating design integrates educational and exhibition spaces above Lumphini Park's water landscape.
02
Sustainable materials like concrete and glass provide a visual dialogue with the natural environment.
03
Biomimicry influences the building’s shape, reflecting the silk moth’s cocoon.
04
The connection bridge features organic forms, enhancing pedestrian flow between the two buildings.
05
Educational facilities are designed to foster collaboration among students, professionals, and the public.

## Project Overview

Located in Bangkok, Thailand, the Bombyx Mori Fashion Hub aims to establish a significant center for fashion and culture, reflecting the city's rich textile heritage, particularly its association with the silk industry. The design seeks to create a contemporary space that serves both educational and creative purposes, promoting the ongoing evolution of fashion while enhancing the local cultural landscape. The project strategically interfaces with its surroundings by drawing inspiration from the lifecycle of the silk moth, symbolizing transformation and innovation.

## Location and Context

The hub is positioned adjacent to Lumphini Park, a major green area in Bangkok that enhances the project's connection to both urban and natural settings. This prime location fosters an interactive environment, allowing visitors to transition easily between the bustling city and the tranquility of the park. The design integrates these diverse contexts, emphasizing a harmonious relationship with nature and urban vitality.

## Architectural and Material Design

### Building Components

The Bombyx Mori project consists of two primary structures: the Fashion Building and the Lumphini Park Building. The Fashion Building rises 25 stories, designed to function as a comprehensive center for fashion-related activities. It includes classrooms, ateliers, exhibition spaces, and a fashion museum, facilitating diverse educational and cultural experiences. The Lumphini Park Building, designed with a floating concept, features a fashion museum and an auditorium. This innovative approach enables the structure to rest above water, preserving the park's ecosystem while providing critical educational resources.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The design employs a selection of materials that supports its conceptual objectives. Concrete serves as the primary structural element for the floating building, offering stability and durability. Extensive glass facades in the Fashion Building promote natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere while delivering unobstructed views of the landscape. Steel is utilized in the bridge and structural support elements, contributing to structural integrity and design flexibility. Furthermore, landscaping within and around the buildings integrates natural elements, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability and enhancing the ecological value of the site.

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