MLC Salazar (Master of Architecture) | Archi 211 [Tropical Design: Climate and Culture as Form-givers (Building for People: Climate, Culture, Comfort)] WSZ Class
Posted on December 23, 2024
In late October, a group of students from the University of the Philippines taking up Masters in Architecture, embarked on an academic journey to Bangkok, Thailand. This four-day cultural excursion, led by Assistant Professor Xander Lacson, was designed to immerse the students in Bangkok’s architectural landscape and urban culture. The trip’s goal was simple yet ambitious: to study how contemporary architecture can seamlessly blend in adapting to the tropical climate while reflecting local culture. Through a blend of guided tours, site visits, and interviews, the students gained invaluable insights into the delicate balance of community-centered design and environmental sustainability.
Planning for Bangkok: A Cross-Cultural Architectural Study
The trip was first introduced at the start of the semester in ARCH 211. Asst. Prof. Lacson offered his students a unique opportunity to apply the theories of tropical architecture in a real-world context. The focus of this excursion would be two community spaces: The Commons in Bangkok, Thailand, and The Corner House in San Juan, Philippines. Asst. Prof. Lacson explained that the students would be writing a research paper on these two structures, examining their nuances and features in an architectural response to the tropical environment.
After studying The Corner House locally, students eagerly prepared for their overseas journey to The Commons. The excitement was palpable as they prepared for their flight from Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila to Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, each one looking forward to experiencing a different culture and architectural style firsthand.
Arrival in Bangkok
The group gathered at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila for their midnight flight to Bangkok, energized by the thought of the experiences awaiting them. They landed early in the morning at Suvarnabhumi Airport and headed to Bali Suite Silom, a hotel located in one of Bangkok’s vibrant business districts. Silom offered the students their first taste of Thailand’s urban landscape with its sleek skyscrapers and urban spaces, each capturing elements of the city’s rich history and modern ambitions. After a quick rest, the students gathered for a briefing where Asst. Prof. Lacson outlined the research activities and objectives for the week.
Divided into teams, the students were assigned distinct focal points for their studies: one group would analyze materiality and affordance, while the other focused on thermal comfort and ventilation. This collaboration set the tone for the in-depth observations and analyses that would follow in the coming days. With the plans set, the students embarked on their first official site visit that afternoon.
Learning Objectives and Activities
The Bangkok excursion was carefully structured to achieve three main learning objectives:
- Assessing Climatic Impact: Where students will evaluate how Bangkok’s tropical climate impacts architectural requirements and the design program.
- Applying Passive Design Strategies: The students will identify passive design strategies that address specific climate-related challenges key to sustainable tropical architecture.
- Design Evaluation and Adaptation: They were encouraged to analyze or propose architectural designs that integrate climate-adapted, passive design strategies.
To meet these objectives, Asst. Prof. Lacson organized various activities:
- – City and Cultural Tours: Guided tours allowed students to witness Bangkok’s diverse architectural styles and urban life, including visits to traditional landmarks and modern community spaces.
- – Department Visits and Site Surveys: Students conducted on-site case studies and interviews at The Commons, observing practical applications of passive design.
- – University Collaboration: The students visited Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Architecture, where they met with local professors and architecture students.
The Commons Thong Lor
Their first official site visit was to The Commons Thong Lor, a multi-level community space with an open design. This popular structure in Bangkok merges elements of architectural openness and environmental sustainability, that encourage social interaction and emphasize an indoor-outdoor experience. Designed to draw people in and upward, The Commons features a spacious, visible staircase that occupies the majority of the building’s frontage, creating a seamless flow through each level.
Upon arrival, the students were captivated by the vibrant ambiance and thoughtful layout. Each group quickly got to work, with one team assessing the building materials and open-air design, while the other focused on ventilation strategies and natural airflow. As the students explored its different levels, they noted how the space fostered a sense of community, drawing people together in shared, comfortable areas. It is also worth noting how the design balances natural light and ventilation with shading and industrial fans to reduce heat while maintaining a comfortable, air-conditioned atmosphere in some areas. Asst. Prof. Lacson encouraged them to engage with the space, observing its structural and functional elements. The bright lights and vibrant ambiance of The Commons Thong Lor captivated everyone, providing an inspiring start to their research exploration.
visit at the Commons, Thong Lor
relative humidity
Experiencing Bangkok’s Nightlife: Cruising through Night Markets around Silom Saladaeng
In the evening, the group made its way to the Night Markets around Silom, one of Bangkok’s bustling hubs for food, shopping, and nightlife. The students experienced the vibrant energy of Bangkok’s local culture, sampling Thai street food and exploring the colorful stalls along the alley. The lively atmosphere was a stark contrast to the calm ambiance of The Commons, immersing themselves in the spirited environment.
The Commons Saladaeng
The following day, October 25, the students prepared to visit The Commons Saladaeng, another branch of the community-centered space they had explored the previous day. This location presented a unique architectural style compared to Thong Lor, with its distinct character, roof design, and layout that reflected the neighborhood’s character. The students noticed how The Commons Saladaeng retained a minimalist approach while emphasizing adaptability to its surroundings, underscoring how architecture can respond to different urban settings.
Each team continued to analyze aspects relevant to their focused areas. The students noted the architectural contrasts with Thong Lor, observing how each branch responds to the surrounding areas while retaining a common emphasis on openness and the use of communal spaces.
plans before heading out to Chulalongkorn University (Upper Right), One of the students (Chynx Efrheim Bilaw,
conducting site observations (Lower Right)
Chulalongkorn University
Later that day, the students visited Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Architecture, where they were warmly welcomed by Professor Vlado Danailov and Dr. Hyunju Jang. The visit offered the students valuable insight into Thailand’s architectural education and its approach to integrating traditional and modern styles. They were given a tour of the school’s facilities, including the library, common areas, and classrooms, where they saw examples of student projects that exhibited Thai design principles. This inspired the students to consider similar themes in their work. It left a lasting impression and helped them appreciate how deeply rooted cultural values shape architectural practices.
Revisiting The Commons: Final Data Collection and Observations
After the university visit, the students returned to The Commons Thong Lor to gather more data for their research papers. Equipped with tools and survey questionnaires, they observed the space with a more critical eye, recording data on materials, measuring the upper spaces, conducting surveys and interviews with the end users, and observing key design features. Both groups worked through the afternoon, exchanging insights and analyzing how the building fosters a sense of community and sustainability.
design with its mechanical pipings and concrete finish
The final evening brought a special treat, as they were joined by Dr. Ole Sander, an International Rice Research Institute country representative in Thailand who shared his experiences and thoughts on their individual research focus. The students enjoyed traditional dishes while discussing their experiences throughout the tour over dinner at Cabbages and Condoms, a unique Thai restaurant. Founded in the 1980s by Mechai Viravaidya, a former Thai politician and philanthropist, the restaurant was established to promote family planning and HIV/AIDS awareness in Thailand.
The restaurant is more than just a dining establishment.; it is a symbol of social advocacy and history. Its playful pairing of “cabbages” with “condoms” sparks curiosity and breaks the ice on discussions about sensitive topics like safe sex and reproductive health. The restaurant—adorned with quirky condom-themed decorations and historical displays—offers a unique dining experience. It is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists who support socially responsible causes.
Key Architectural Insights from The Commons
During their time at The Commons, the students had the opportunity to meet with Amata Luphaiboon, a native Thai architect and one of the designers behind The Commons and The Corner House. Through this conversation, they gained invaluable architectural insights, which included:
- Encouraging Vertical Movement: Amata tackled the challenge of drawing people to the upper floors by designing a prominent stairwell that encourages upward movement.
- Open-Air Design in a Tropical Climate: Through large skylights, shading, and industrial fans, The Commons effectively maintains comfort without relying on air conditioning.
- Adaptable Social Spaces: Designed to be inclusive, The Commons offers seating that accommodates people of all ages and invites different forms of social interaction.
- Flexible Retail Model: By minimizing kitchen space for vendors, the building allows for a communal dining area that fosters a sense of community.
- Cultural and Historical Sensitivity: The design at Saladaeng subtly pays homage to the history of the Saladaeng neighborhood, reflecting a deep respect for cultural heritage.
- Community-Oriented Design for Diverse Use: Amata emphasized that The Commons was created to cater to various activities, from coffee mornings to evening social gatherings, making it adaptable to urban life.
- Environmental and Cost Efficiency: The open structure reduces energy costs, allowing for a sustainable
Each of these insights left a lasting impression on the students, underscoring the importance of context-specific, environmentally conscious design in an urban setting.
incorporated in the commons.
Exploring Bangkok’s Riverfront and Historical Sites
The third day included a visit to ICON SIAM, a luxurious shopping complex on the Chao Phraya River. This modern retail space, with its architectural grandeur and riverside views, presented a blend of high-end design and cultural representation. The students took a scenic riverboat ride along the Chao Phraya, which allowed them to witness the juxtaposition of historical and modern buildings lining Bangkok’s scenic skyline.
The day culminated in a visit to some of Bangkok’s most iconic historical landmarks: Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha). These sites, with their intricate details, rich symbolism, and architectural harmony, embody the spiritual essence of traditional Thai design. For the students, these landmarks served as a powerful contrast to the contemporary spaces they had visited, offering a comprehensive view of Bangkok’s architectural heritage.
Conclusion
As their time in Bangkok came to a close, the students gathered to reflect on the lessons they had absorbed. From sustainable community spaces to intricate temples, each destination highlighted different facets of Thai architecture, blending innovation with tradition. These experiences provided the students with valuable perspectives on urban design and sustainable development… perspectives they would carry back to the Philippines and into their future architectural endeavors.
This journey not only deepened their appreciation for diverse architectural styles but also taught them the importance of cultural context and community-centered design. They returned home with fresh insights, ready to apply their newfound knowledge to projects that might one day contribute to the architectural landscape in their own communities. For the ARCH 211 class, Bangkok was more than a destination—it was a catalyst for inspiration, learning, and growth in their academic and professional paths.