Projecting Future Heritage: A Hong Kong Archive Past buildings of Hong Kong, ree
Under many constraints, from high population density and a constantly hot and humid climate to post-war social and political conditions, Hong Kongâs everyday buildings are filled with local wisdom and architectural value.Projecting Future Heritage: A Hong Kong Archive presents a roving exhibition of Hong Kong architectural drawings from the post-war period to the 1990s, highlighting their value and calling for recognition of them as âfuture heritage.â The exhibition was first initiated for the Venice Architecture Biennale 2025, before traveling to Bangkok for Bangkok Design Week 2026 in the coming weeks.âWe wanted to bring showcase these seemingly ordinary everyday buildings unique to Hong Kong in an international platform such as Venice, because today many are disappearing. Yet we think they are valuable for because they show the intelligence of building in the incredible density of Hong Kong,â said Ying Zhou, one of the projectâs curators and initiators.âWe also show them in an archive format in Venice because their selection for documentation and archiving underlines these overlooked values. Their recognition as valuable is the first step to their conservation. We are bringing them to Bangkok to share both the archive, as media for communication and exhibition, and also the contents of the archive, which has resonance with the modern-era buildings in Bangkok as well,â Zhou continued. Curator Sunnie S.Y. Lau explained additionally that the idea of the âarchival lensâ has been applied not only to this exhibition but also extended to other overlooked community areas across Hong Kong. âThese informal spatial structures have sustained society, the local economy, and even the climate, yet they rarely appear in official urban planning. Many of them are now threatened by redevelopment and enclosure, such as Cha Kwo Ling, an urban village with a history of at least 400 years. This is why we urgently need to document and share these stories internationally, to build recognition of them as âfuture heritage.âââThis exhibition exists to preserve the stories of these villages, through drawings, films, oral histories, and spatial studies. These materials reveal the role of villages as reservoirs of everyday wisdom, reflecting care for both the past and the diverse futures of the city.ââA final publication is planned to document the full trajectory of the projectâfrom its conception and research in Hong Kong, to the Venice installation, to the roving adaptations in Bangkok and other cities,â Curator Sunnie S.Y. Lau concluded.More information:https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en/bkkdw2026/program/150457
Stormwater Planter Box A rain-absorbing planter offering a local solution to flo
Rain falls, traffic builds, streets floodâan endless loop that city dwellers often wait for the government to fix. But perhaps thereâs another way forward. Stormwater Planter Box, a rain-absorbing planter, offers a new way for people to help respond to flooding.This project is a collaboration between Monash University and a team of lecturers, staff, and students from the Faculty of Architecture, Art and Design at King Mongkutâs Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, including Dr. Chaniporn Thamapanichwat, Limpasilp Sirisakdi, Panyaphat Somngam, Pakin Anuntavachakorn, and Taksaporn Petlai.âThe initial idea came from the planter box as a water-receiving system that helps slow down rainwater before it flows into drains or public infrastructure. This is a recurring issue in many parts of Thailand. When we were invited to design this project, the key challenge was to connect it with the context of Bangkok Design Week and Thai identity.âTo create a rainwater planter that fits Thai everyday life, the team began by surveying neighborhoods, observing, documenting, and photographing common elements found along Bangkokâs sidewalks, such as stone benches, advertising boards, and decorative metal fences.âIf we look at everyday objects in Thai life, a simple example is the marble bench in front of a house. Whatâs interesting is that itâs not only used by people in the householdâpassersby can also sit and rest. We adapted this idea into our design.Another important aspect is aesthetics. We drew from forms that Thai people instantly recognize, such as metal gate patterns. These elements were incorporated into the design, especially in the Phra Nakhon area, where colors and motifs are very distinctive.âBeyond function and appearance, the project required close collaboration with the local community to gather feedback and refine the design.âThe first thing people wanted was for it to be truly usable, not just cool or beautiful. It had to function in real life, as a place to sit, talk, and gather, without drifting too far from the communityâs urban practices. Thatâs why we included a tabletop that can be used for familiar games like chess or checkers.âVisitors passing by Pachimalikhit during Bangkok Design Week 2026 could sit, chat, or play checkers, and also explore the display explaining how the Stormwater Planter Box system works.âThere was already a drainage system beneath the sidewalk. Normally, rainwater would flow directly from buildings into canals or drains. This planter box acts as an intermediate layer between buildings and the canal, helping us test how we can reduce the impact of runoff.âThe good news is that after the festival, the Stormwater Planter Box will remain in place for around one year. This allows the team to test its performance and collect long-term data in preparation for future development.âThis is a shared expectation between our team and Monash University. We want this piece to serve as a prototype that can evolve further. If multiple units are connected, it could work at a larger community scale or even at the district level.For Bangkok residents, this solution opens a new path. Traditionally, flood prevention hasnât been something individuals could address. This project creates an opportunity for one person, one household, or one community to adopt the solution themselves. Even if it helps only a little, it could be the start, and over time, many small points like this could come together to create real impact.âLearn more about Stormwater Planter Box:https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2026/program/150495
Bangkok Design Week 2026 Visitor Guide
6 Key Program11 Day 350+ Programs140+ Venues Throughout The CityBangkok Design Week 2026 returns with the collective energy of people coming together to share ideas and creativity to help the city move forward. Over 11 days, the festival unfolds across Bangkok through 6 key programs, 350+ activities, and 140+ venues, creating opportunities for design to connect with everyday life, business, and communities. It also invites us to explore the city from new perspectives and see how small creative ideas, when brought together, can move the city ahead.This year, Bangkok Design Week 2026 invites everyone to explore 4+1 creative districts across the city. Each area has its own character, stories, and design energy. Design works, activities, and highlight programs are deeply rooted in the local context, people, and everyday life of each neighborhood. Take a look at the concepts, pick your favorite districts, drop your pinsâand head out to collect ideas across the entire city.ð Programs in Charoenkrung â Talat Noihttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2026/program?nbh=280ð Programs in Pak Khlong Talathttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2026/program?nbh=50632ð Programs in Phra Nakhonhttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2026/program?nbh=49828ð Programs in Bang Lamphu â Khaosanhttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2026/program?nbh=106531ð Programs in Other Creative Districtshttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2026/program?nbh=284In a fast-changing world full of challenges, Bangkok Design Week 2026 sends out the DESIGN S/O/S signalâhighlighting design as a powerful tool to help us move forward together, from strengthening the local market and opening global opportunities to shaping a future that is practical and real.This yearâs festival features a wide range of Key Programs, from professional design exhibitions and student-led experiments to international exchanges, business networking, community-driven projects, and lively, accessible activities that bring creative energy to the entire city.Donât miss our partner programsexplore them through the Instagram Tag of Bangkok Design Week!Activities at Bangkok Design Week 2026 take place simultaneously across the city, with many more partner programs waiting to be discovered. To stay up to date, simply check the Instagram Tag of Bangkok Design Week (the rightmost tab), where partner posts are gathered in real time. Youâll find new ideas, must-see programs, and festival atmosphere from many perspectives, making it easier and more enjoyable to explore the festival and catch all the highlights.Explore now ð https://www.instagram.com/bangkokdesignweek/tagged/Weâve gathered all the essential tools to help you explore Bangkok Design Week 2026 smoothly and enjoy every highlightâfrom the official website and planning features to the interactive map and LINE OA. With these tools at hand, youâre all set to navigate the festival with ease and make the most of your experience.Weâve gathered all the essential tools to help you explore Bangkok Design Week 2026 smoothly and enjoy every highlightâfrom the official website and planning features to the interactive map and LINE OA. With these tools at hand, youâre all set to navigate the festival with ease and make the most of your experience.If youâre up for a challenge and want a souvenir to take home, donât miss the Snap & Share game! Just grab a leaflet, head out to explore, take photos with artworks or district highlights, share them on social media, then stop by the information desk to collect a gold district character sticker for your collection.No need to worry about getting lost – BKKDW INFO CENTER are available across all four main districts: CharoenkrungâTalat Noi (Grand Postal Building), Phra Nakhon (Lan Khon Mueang), Pak Khlong Talat (in front of MRT Sanam Chai, Exit 5), and Bang LamphuâKhaosan (in front of New World). The teams are there throughout the festival to help with routes, programs, and any information you need.Bangkok Design Week 2026 is easier to get around than you might think, with free transportation options that make exploring the festival smooth, fun, and continuous throughout the event.ð BKKDW Shuttle ServiceFree shuttle buses connecting the main festival districts, making it easy to move between areas.ðē Bike Bus by BUCAA group cycling activity that is fun, safe, and lets you experience the city along the way.ðą ViaBusA real-time app for tracking public transportation and the BKKDW Shuttle Service.Download information at www.viabus.coðš Travel with ease through our transportation partner Muvmi.Muvmi PromotionNew users: 50% off with code BKKDWNEW (3 rides per person)Existing users: 10% off with code BKKDWMUV (SAVER only, 2 rides per person)Valid in Rattanakosin, Silom, and Wongwian Yai area only.Save this image for later! Whether youâre arriving by BTS, bus, boat, or car, weâve gathered all transportation options and parking spots for all four creative districts, making it easy to plan your visit to Bangkok Design Week 2026.Charoenkrung-Talat Noi is a historic area along the Chao Phraya River, developed alongside Thailandâs first Western-style road. It has evolved into a creative economic district where design connects local identity with contemporary creativity, enhancing business, quality of life, and the areaâs ecosystem.ð Programs in Charoenkrung â Talat Noihttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2026/program?nbh=280Follow the story of Charoenkrung-Talat Noi District : âļ Charoenkrung Creative District > www.facebook.com/CharoenkrungCDâļ Talatnoi Community > www.facebook.com/taladnoijourneyâļ BangRak District Office > www.facebook.com/BangkokBangRakPak Khlong Talat District is a historic commercial area that has grown into Thailandâs iconic flower market. Full of color, forms, and daily rhythms, it inspires creatives to reinterpret traditional knowledge and connect generations through design.ð Programs in Pak Khlong Talathttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en/bkkdw2026/program?nbh=50632Follow the story of Charoenkrung-Talat Noi District : âļ Humans of Flower Market > https://www.facebook.com/manuspakkhlongPhra Nakhon District is Bangkokâs historic old town, filled with heritage architecture and atmosphere. Design revitalizes existing buildings through adaptive reuse for creative activities and small businesses, supporting long-term economic and community growth.ð Programs in Phra Nakhonhttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en/bkkdw2026/program?nbh=49828Follow the story of Phra Nakhon : âļ Urban Ally > https://www.facebook.com/UrbanAlly.SUBang Lamphu – Khaosan is a tourism district blending traditional ways of life with contemporary culture. Design reinterprets local stories, turning history, culture, and everyday life into shared experiences seen from new perspectives.ð Programs in Bang Lamphu – Khaosanhttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2026/program?nbh=106531Follow the story of Bang Lamphu – Khaosan : âļ Sanae Bang Lamphu > https://www.facebook.com/sanaebanglamphuBeyond the main areas, the festival expands across Bangkokâincluding Phrom Phong, Bang Pho, Srinakarin, South Sukhumvit, SamyanâBanthat Thong, Hua Lamphong, Bangkok YaiâWang Derm, and Chatuchakâbringing diverse activities and showcases that spread creative inspiration throughout the city.ð Programs in other districts across Bangkokhttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2026/program?nbh=284Before heading out to explore Bangkok Design Week 2026, take a moment to read these small guidelines. They help ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit while being respectful to others, as every place you visit is a real, living community.During Bangkok Design Week 2026 there may be recording of images and videos throughout the festival, including the collection of registration data which may include your personal information. The collection, processing, and disclosure of personal data are for various purposes as specified below. If you have any questions about the data collection, use, or disclosure of your personal information, the duration for which the office will retain your personal data, the methods of storage and security standards for your personal data, or about your rights regarding personal data, including the right to withdraw consent, you can refer to the Privacy Policy or email the personal data protection officer: dpo@cea.or.thFurthermore, the office and the event organizing team will use still images and videos for the promotion of the festival, and your personal information for coordination in participating in Bangkok Design Week only. If you have further questions, you may inquire at hello.bkkdw@cea.or.th.Read more about the Privacy Policy: www.cea.or.th/th/privacy-policyBangkok Design Week 2026 DESIGN S/O/SFull Program : https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en/bkkdw2026/programð29 January â 8 February 2026Charoenkrung – Talat Noi, Phra Nakhon, Pak Khlong Talat, Bang Lamphu – Khaosan, and others
Bangkok Design Week 2026 has officially begun!
Bangkok Design Week 2026 has officially begun! Now in its 9th year, the festival opens with a lively atmosphere under the theme âDESIGN S/O/S,â which looks at design as a practical tool for responding to the challenges of the city, the economy, and everyday life through collaboration between the public sector, private sector, and creative communities. The opening ceremony was held on 29 January 2026 at TCDC Bangkok, marking the start of BKKDW 2026 and setting out to turn Bangkok into a âcity of opportunitiesâ through design.The festival focuses on three main pillars: Creative Talent, highlighting creative potential; Design Business, linking design with business opportunities; and The District, using design to support and energize local neighborhoods. BKKDW is expected to welcome more than 400,000 visitors from Thailand and abroad, with an estimated economic impact of over 1 billion THB.BKKDW 2026 spreads across Bangkok, covering four main districts, Charoenkrung – Talat Noi, Phra Nakhon, Pak Khlong Talat, and Bang Lamphu – Khaosan, along with more than 140 venues citywide. Hundreds of design programs by Thai and international designers come together to test ideas, take action, and show how design can help cities and people move forward together.
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Bangkok is surrounded by shopping malls, but during Bangkok Design Week 2026, the experience feels different. This is especially true across Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery, and ICONSIAM, where a wide range of design programs take over the spaces.Under the concept SIAM PIWAT CREATIVE POWERHOUSE FOR SUSTAINABLE ART & DESIGN, Siam Piwat positions itself as a platform of opportunity for designers. Creativity is combined with sustainability in many forms, resulting in more than 20 design works and activities this year, including:Siam ParagonDiscover abstract paintings in Between Earth & Light by Jean-Paul Decroix, and explore the new zone NEXTOPIA: A PROTOTYPE FOR WORLD OF TOMORROW, created through collaboration among change-makers, innovators, artists, and environmental advocates.Siam CenterBrowse the art market Sabai Siam â Thai-Style Creative Market, where Thai artists freely express their ideas, and enjoy the pop-up exhibition LUCKY WITH EVERYTHING by Chubby Boy Club.Siam DiscoveryExperience the ancient Lao spirit through contemporary installation art in KHUAN, then continue to MY PAWFECT BUDDIES, an exhibition and pop-up store created especially for animal lovers.ICONSIAMTurn getting lost into discovery with Khlongsan Experience, which invites visitors to explore real locations around Khlong San. Also visit ICONCRAFT X PATTERN.ERS CHOKE-LARB POP UP EXHIBITION, featuring contemporary fashion by five emerging designers from Northern Thailand.These programs represent just part of the creative power of each mall, each with its own distinct identity. Together, they share a common goal: strengthening the creative ecosystem and contributing to Bangkok as a creative city, driving cultural, social, and economic energy.Behind the scenes, Siam Piwat has collaborated with designers, artists, and partners from Thailand and abroad to develop the idea of a platform of opportunity. Shopping malls are transformed into experimental spaces that support the exchange of ideas, experiences, and inspiration across cultures, helping elevate Bangkok onto the international creative stage.After BKKDW, the works will be further developed as prototype models for design and creative practices that consider everyday life, people, and the environment, emphasizing responsible resource use and value creation for local communities.Learn more about SIAM PIWAT CREATIVE POWERHOUSE FOR SUSTAINABLE ART & DESIGN:https://www.siampiwat.com/assets/bangkokdesignweek2026/
Marshall Livehouse Listen to music, sip coffee, dig through vinyl, and rehearseâ a creative playground built for emerging artists.
Despite being called a âlivehouse,â Marshall Livehouse is more than just a music venue, especially during Bangkok Design Week 2026, when the entire building is filled with activities. From talks and live performances to coffee and matcha tasting, vinyl digging, and even group rehearsals with friends, the space becomes a hub of creative energy.Opened in 2025, Marshall Livehouse was launched as a Music and Community Space designed to support a wide range of activities for emerging artists.âWe see our space as a kind of playgroundâa place for artists to release their energy. From the very beginning, Marshall Livehouse was created to support local grassroots and emerging artists in particular, giving them opportunities, rehearsal rooms, performance spaces, and access to world-class musical equipment. We also provide space for exhibitions, workshops, and other creative activities,â said Hataichanok Uttaburanont, Head of Music & Culture at Marshall Livehouse.She explained that this vision aligns perfectly with the return of BKKDW.âWhen we tried to define the position of Marshall Livehouse, we thought of the phrase âthe voice in your head.â For creative people, this represents the process of thinking, developing ideas, and even arguing with yourself. Before any artwork is created, you have many internal conversationsâthis is natural for artists.âThis idea evolved into the concept âUnbridle the Voice in Your Headâ, a space where everyone is encouraged to fully release their inner voice through six specially designed activities for the festival.Dig & Drip â When Vinyl Meets Slow CoffeeIndependent record shops and collectors come together, inviting visitors to dig for rare vinyl – from classic albums to hidden gems – while enjoying slow-bar coffee and music from vinyl records.TALK SESSION âTAPE DJ 101â & DJ ShowcaseA talk on tape culture and tape DJing by DJ TAPE JAM, followed by a showcase exploring new listening experiences through cassette tapes.Thai Matcha Workshop with Jazz Vinyl ShowcaseA hands-on workshop where participants taste and create their own matcha drinks using 19 high-quality Thai base ingredients, paired with live DJs to enhance the experience.Live Performance: âUnbridle the Voice in Your HeadâA packed performance schedule throughout the festival, featuring diverse genres, such as KANEHBOS x NIRAMIT, blending electronic music with traditional Isan instruments like the khaen and phin.Free JamAn open rehearsal room where anyone can drop in to play or practice music, available on a first-come, first-served basis.Unbridled Exhibition by FCCKAn exhibition of special-edition Marshall speaker and amplifier designs created for Chinese New Year by Chengdu-based artist FCCK, alongside a themed paper workshop by Pineapple Print Press.âMost of these are events we already run regularly, but the challenge was curating them to truly connect with BKKDW. We want people to see artists as artists, to understand their work, not just come for fun music.âThailand already has many emerging artists. Even if each artistâs fan base isnât huge, compared to the region, Thai audiences are open and diverse, and very welcoming to new music. We believe itâs only going to get more exciting in the future.âLearn more about Marshall Livehouse here:https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en/bkkdw2026/program/142265