Benchakitti Rain Forest Observatory, Bangkok, Thailand pavilion photos, Southeast Asian architecture
Benchakitti Rain Forest Observatory in Bangkok
14 November 2024
Design: HAS design and research
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Photos by Rungkit Charoenwat
Benchakitti Rain Forest Observatory, Thailand
According to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, Bangkok provides 6.99m² of green space per person, which is below the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended minimum of 9m². Benchakitti Forest Park, located in central Bangkok and opened to the public in 2022, aims to expand Bangkok’s green spaces and introduce a new standard of well-being for residents.
The Benchakitti Rain Forest Observatory serves as an architectural manifesto designed to increase natural environments and reflect Bangkokians’ desire for green spaces. Situated within Benchakitti Forest Park, the observatory is surrounded by wetlands and dense greenery, creating a natural ecosystem filled with the sounds of flowers, birds, and insects—a scene reminiscent of paradise. Founders and architects of HAS Design and Research, Jenchieh Hung and Kulthida Songkittipakdee, developed the Benchakitti Rain Forest Observatory as a harmonious extension of the park, considering it a gift to the people of Bangkok. Their vision was to blend the building seamlessly with nature.
Drawing inspiration from the lush surroundings, Hung and Songkittipakdee designed the observatory to resemble a structure draped in leaves, evoking a floating wetland island or a precious tropical rainforest habitat. This design provides a shared space for local wildlife and visitors alike. The building’s gently undulating shape leads visitors to an upper-level observatory with panoramic park views, while a lower rest area, featuring a water mist system, mimics the wetland environment. This area also serves as a community space for relaxation, yoga, meditation, and family gatherings.
By day, the Benchakitti Rain Forest Observatory merges with the park like a chameleon. Nearly a hundred smart boards in four shades of sustainable green paint allow the structure to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. At night, discreet lighting behind the boards casts a gentle glow, allowing the building to recede into the natural landscape. HAS Design and Research envisions the observatory not just as a functional facility, but as a space that mirrors the characteristics of a tropical rainforest.
In addition to providing shade and shelter, the observatory acts as a gathering place where residents can connect with nature, nurture their well-being, and participate in educational activities. Through this project, HAS Design and Research underscores Bangkok’s commitment to environmental care and a future where urban spaces and nature are interwoven.
Benchakitti Rain Forest Observatory in Bangkok, Thailand – Building Information
Architects: HAS design and research – https://hasdesignandresearch.com/about/
Completion: 2022
Lead architects: Jenchieh Hung, Kulthida Songkittipakdee
Design team: Jenchieh Hung, Kulthida Songkittipakdee, Tapanee Laddahom, Chiwen Chang
Landscape design: Arsom Silp Institute of the Arts
Lighting design: Light Is
Structure consultant: Goldstar Metal Co., Ltd.
Façade consultant: AB&W Innovation Co., Ltd.
Paint: Jorakay
Constructor: Alufence
Site area: 120 sq.m.
Gross built area: 130 sq.m.
Client: The Association of Siamese Architects under Royal Patronage (ASA)
Photography: Rungkit Charoenwat
Benchakitti Rain Forest Observatory, Bangkok, Thailand images / information received 141124
Location: Bangkok, Thailand, southeast Asia
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