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Lightwell-Enhanced Residency Featuring Concrete and Timber Integration in Urban Bangkok

Author:
Jocelyn Arnold
Lightwell-Enhanced Residency Featuring Concrete and Timber Integration in Urban Bangkok

Project in-detail

A central lightwell illuminates the interconnected living and gallery spaces, showcasing a thoughtfully designed fusion of concrete and timber that fosters community engagement within the vibrant context of urban Bangkok.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a central lightwell that enhances natural lighting and encourages communal interaction.
02
A combination of concrete and wood offers a blend of durability and warmth in living spaces.
03
The residence features a spiral staircase that acts as a sculptural centerpiece, enhancing vertical circulation.
04
Art studios are integrated into the living areas to facilitate creative collaboration among residents.
05
Charred wooden shingles provide a unique aesthetic while offering protection against the elements.
The Curious Residency in Bangkok represents a thoughtful integration of architecture, community, and art, designed to foster interaction among its users while enhancing the urban landscape. This mixed-use residency combines living spaces with exhibition areas, creating an environment that encourages both artistic expression and communal engagement. Visually, the project embodies a contemporary aesthetic, characterized by organic forms and a harmonious relationship between its interior and exterior spaces.

The architecture of The Curious Residency is fundamentally about creating a dynamic communal experience. It is carefully curated to blend functionality with artistic inspiration. The entrance serves not just as a threshold but as an introductory gallery, setting the tone for the exploration of art and community that lies within. Upon entering, visitors are immediately drawn into an engaging environment where art is accessible and interactions are encouraged. This design approach signifies a shift from traditional residential spaces to a more collective living experience.

Spatial arrangement plays a crucial role in this project. The emphasis on fluid movement throughout the building is highlighted by multiple levels interconnected through a central spiral staircase. This design serves as both a practical and symbolic element, where circulation is encouraged, and the experience of moving between spaces becomes an integral part of the residency. Common areas are strategically positioned to promote socialization among residents, ensuring that art does not exist in a vacuum but is interwoven with daily life.

The material palette selected for The Curious Residency reflects a commitment to creating warm, inviting environments while ensuring structural integrity. Concrete provides a robust foundation and form, allowing for innovative design features without sacrificing stability. Wood accents add warmth to the interiors, especially in spaces designated for community gatherings and artistic endeavors. Large glass windows punctuate the façade, inviting natural light and creating visual connections with the surrounding urban context, further blurring the lines between inside and outside. Metal elements offer a contemporary touch and contribute to the project's durability.

One of the project’s unique approaches lies in its focus on the concept of a lightwell. This architectural feature is not merely functional; it serves as a central gathering point, drawing sunlight deep into the building and creating a vibrant atmosphere. Its octagonal shape allows for artistic displays while providing a communal area for residents and visitors to engage in conversation or simply enjoy the natural surroundings.

The careful attention to community involvement is a defining characteristic of The Curious Residency. By integrating living quarters with creative workshops and gallery spaces, the design fosters a shared cultural experience. This architectural idea effectively challenges conventional residential concepts by inviting artistic exploration as a fundamental aspect of daily life. It positions the residency as a cultural hub where creativity thrives alongside communal living.

Each element of The Curious Residency contributes to a greater understanding of the role architecture plays in shaping social interactions and cultural experiences. The intention behind the design is clear: to create a nurturing environment that articulates the relationship between art and habitation, while responding to the urban vibrancy of Bangkok.

For those interested in exploring the complexities of The Curious Residency further, reviewing architectural plans, sections, and specific design elements will provide deeper insights into how these architectural ideas come together to form a cohesive and engaging living space. Engaging with this project offers a valuable perspective on how thoughtful architectural design can enhance community connections and artistic expression in an urban setting.
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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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