DESIGN / Living ASEAN - Inspiring Tropical Lifestyle

Vin Varavarn Architects / Adapting Ordinary Materials to Achieve Architectural Excellence

By livingasean
September 13, 2017
CULTURE,DESIGN,HAPPENING,PEOPLE,SPECIAL SCOOP

This September the second Room x Living ASEAN Design Talk will be held under the title “ASEAN Architecture Design,” featuring a Thai architect and recipient of world-class awards from many institutions, M.L. Varudh Varavarn, founder of the firm Vin Varavarn Architects (VVA).

/// Myanmar ///
Story: Nawapat D. /// Photography: Spaceshift Studio, Courtesy of Vin Varavarn Architects

M.L. Varudh will take the stage to share his knowledge and inspirational design concepts under the heading “ASEAN Architecture Design.” Also featured will be Jeremiah Pitakwong, managing editor of the Baan Lae Suan magazine group, come to give his insights and impressions from many years of architectural photojournalism around the ASEAN region, with the topic “10 ASEAN Houses.”

VVA is a small firm, but its design works are widely recognized both in Thailand and abroad. M.L. Varudh’s philosophy is the company’s driving force, and stresses functional utility for building occupants and careful selection of construction materials with a view to their potential. Another point is that a designer should avoid making his ego central to the work simply to create a personal signature that people will remember. All this allows VVA’s design work to be versatile and adaptable to various challenges and environmental contexts while at the same time creating works of outstanding function and beauty.

Vin Varavarn Architects — Bann Huay San Yaw- Post Disaster School, Chiang Rai, Thailand (Photographs: Spaceshift Studio)

One project helping both to build a name for the architect himself and add to Thailand’s prominence in the architectural world is Bann Huay San Yaw Witthaya School, one of 9 “por dee por dee (appropriate)” classroom structures built through the Design for Disasters (D4D) relief program for schools damaged in the 6.3 Chiang Rai earthquake of May 5, 2014.

This gabled school building’s primary design requirement was to keep it safe from future earthquake damage. Additionally, the architects focused on using easily obtainable and local materials and facilitating full use of space both inside and outside the building, which holds three classrooms arranged lengthwise at the same level. To save structural costs and also to fit the slope on which it’s built, the building has a multipurpose tai thun open area below.

Walls and roof of the primary structure are constructed of single pieces of steel, which helps protect against sun and rain. Its outstanding adaptation of ordinary materials resulted in this design winning Italy’s International Biennial Barbara Cappochin Architecture 2017 Grand Prize and a High Commendation at Berlin’s 2016 World Architecture Festival Awards, while in the United Kingdom it was shortlisted for the 2016 Architectural Review School Awards.

VVA’s outstanding architectural design work is not by any means limited to Bann Huay San Yaw Witthaya School. Interested in getting a deep look at architectural design? Come listen to M.L. Varudh discuss his design concepts at “Room x Living ASEAN Design Talk vol.2 (Myanmar): ASEAN Architecture Design,” at Myanmar Build & Decor in Myanmar Event Park (MEP), Yangon, Myanmar on September 29, 2017, from 09.45 until 10.30 AM, with no admission charge. You’ll soon be able to get more details at livingasean.com and www.baanlaesuan.com/designtalk.

Link : https://web.facebook.com/VinVaravarnArchitectsLimited/

Amazing Craftwork at the SACICT Innovative Craft Gallery

By livingasean
August 7, 2017
CULTURE,DESIGN,SPECIAL SCOOP,SPOTLIGHT

The official opening for the SACICT Innovative Craft Gallery has arrived, as Support Arts and Crafts International Center of Thailand continues its hallmark support of village-based folkcraft combined with modern design trends to produce eye-popping work and build lasting careers.

/// Thailand ///

The Gallery is located on the second floor of the main SACICT building in Bang Sai, Ayutthaya. Entering the reception area we’re treated to visions from the book SACICT Craft Trend 2018, with a fascinating arrangement of social craft network presentations illustrating the book’s high points. Each of the products on display in the “Mass X Clusivity” exhibit has a story to tell. The “Digital Detoxing” section shows us designs that bring harmony to today’s changing world.

Décor and tasteful arrangement create harmonious connections between displays. We follow the production steps of these innovative crafts as skills are brought to bear and traditional knowledge applied, culminating in their appearance on the national stage – the IICF (International Innovative Craft Fair) or the Innovative Craft Award competition, for instance – as they gain widespread recognition and interest. It’s hard to find a more remarkable collection of unique and finely crafted pieces than here at the Gallery.

Under the heading “Benjarong” (primary colors), the Thai Navatasilp exhibit shows us a perfect balance of skill, traditional knowledge, lifestyle, and modernity. Here are works that define and extend the meaning of the term, such as “Plaa Gat” (fish bite) by Witsarut Angkhahawanit and masterpieces produced by acclaimed Thai artist Wasinburi “Tiw” Suphanich-Woraphat.

Interested in creating great works of your own? Want to learn about the thought process, or the physical construction of craftwork? Get news about the Gallery’s activities through Support Arts and Crafts International Center of Thailand, at www.sacict.or.th or www.facebook.com/SACICTGallery.

10 Products with Cool Designs From SACICT Craft Trend 2018

By livingasean
August 7, 2017
CULTURE,DESIGN,SACICT Craft Trend 2018,SPECIAL SCOOP,SPOTLIGHT

From the book SACICT Craft Trend 2018, published by Support Arts and Crafts International Center of Thailand, we take 10 pieces that combine some very hip design with contemporary materials and production and startlingly traditional folk elements. Let’s see what’s there . . .

/// Thailand ///

1. Ceramic plate inscribed with traditional local fabric patterns, by Wit’s Collection adapts the intricate details of a cloth-based pattern to create a chic ceramic work with an eclectic tribal style.

2. The “Raindrop Hanging Lamp” by PATAPiAN: an imaginative blend of old materials, traditionally woven bamboo and moulded brass, formed into raindrop shapes. Great to mix and match with any style.

3. “Takra” multipurpose tray by Thinkk Studio and a wicker-weaving group at Baan Chang in Ang Thong Province: material is woven into small frames. This adds a new dimension to wicker work, since the technique was previously used only for large pieces of furniture. The innovation comes from a new generation of designers working with old-time artisans in SACICT’s Thai Navatasilp Project, which has received wide acclaim.

4. Jackets of woven fabric by Trimode Studio and an U-Thong quilting group in Suphanburi Province use plain woven fabric patterned with new designs simplifying an elaborate tribal style. Here excessive detail is smoothed out to give a contemporary look while using a traditional hand-stitching technique, another bit of folk knowledge preserved by SACICT’s Thai Navatasilp Project.

5. The Landscape Pot Box by TRIMODE DESIGN and a mango woodworking group in Hang Dong, Chiang Mai Province: a multipurpose storage box inspired by natural landscapes. The lids of these mango wood boxes are made from colored resin with a texture resembling natural stone. Here the touch of nature is combined with a smooth, very minimalist design.

6. “Tribida,” by Trimode Studio and a twine-weaving group of Ban Laem Yang, Nakhon Sawan Province is a movable set of storage drawers with interesting shape, color, and materials. The lightweight drawers come in a number of patterns and are woven from baling twine, for yet another attractive product from Thai Navatasilp.

7. The “Needle Chair” by British designer Veega Tankun adapts and extends a traditional silk weaving technique to create a new type of easy chair cushion. This cushion softens the chair frame for a gentler, more modern look while adding a new, truly charming dimension to chair design.

8. “Khrae Tray,” by Thinkk Studio and a wicker-weaving group in Baan Chang, Ang Thong Province, is a multi-purpose tray that got its inspiration from dwarf bamboo, its small bamboo slats charmingly set in a black steel frame. It can be put to all sorts of uses, including as a support for food dishes, or as a tea set tray.

9. The Line Tote Bag by Thinkk Studio and a natural-cloth-dyeing community enterprise group at Nong Bua Dang in Chaiyaphum Province is a shoulder bag with an intriguing shape, made of stylishly dyed woven fabric and adorned with simple, attractive monochromatic graphics and patterns that add to its contemporary look. This, too, is a Thai Navatasilp product.

10. “Mon Mai,” by Thinkk Studio and a natural-dyeing community enterprise group in Nong Bua Daeng, Chaiyaphum Province: these beautiful woven mudmee silk patterns are warm and modern, with reduced pattern detail suggestive of fashionable graphic art. The natural dyes give a gentle feeling reminiscent of pastels. Another proud example of SACICT’s Thai Navatasilp Project.

These ten craft art pieces use traditional Thai handicraft techniques adapted by leading designers to create stylish products, many of which are either still on display or in the inventory at SACICT Concept in Bang Sai, Ayutthaya Province. For further information, visit www.sacict.or.th or keep current with the news at www.facebook.com/sacict.

Craft Trend Book 2018

By livingasean
August 1, 2017
CULTURE,DESIGN,SACICT Craft Trend 2018,SPECIAL SCOOP,SPOTLIGHT

SACICT Craft Trend 2018, the most recent book in an annual limited-edition line published by SUPPORT Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand, is a collection of analyses of new trends in handicrafts written by highly knowledgeable people in design circles.

/// Thailand ///

Amphawan Phichalai, Director of SACICT and the book’s producer, puts it this way: “Handicraft development in the modern age has to keep pace with rapidly changing patterns in technology and the world itself. The crafts world needs to put these new technologies to use in connecting and creating networks of people with similar interests who can help each other in development, application, and boundless transmission of knowledge.”

This is the primary concept dealt with in this year’s “Social CRAFT Network” section as it examines the role of technology in this era, when it is such an essential part of people’s lives, putting information we need right at our fingertips for the finding, making connections with lightning speed. Acceptance and utilization of technology helps create a more efficient, comfortable, and generally better life.

And there is a whole new vocabulary, words which act as driving forces behind this year’s new trends.

One example is the term “massclusivity,” describing application of the the master craftsman’s techniques to industrial systems. These systems enable production of products in large numbers, utilizing mass-produced parts that minimize investment costs while building and maintaining the unique identity of handicraft products, preserving the magic and charm of the original craftwork while producing it with a combination of people and machines.

Then there is “digital detoxing,” built on an analysis of changes in consumer behavior that respond to a need to escape from the madly spinning world through relaxation – walking, sitting, lying down, rest and meditation – resulting in products with simple, straightforward designs, uncomplicated and easy to understand but offering the best solutions for improving everyday life.

Besides this, in this collection you’ll find significant content about trends in color usage, great products shown at the 2017 International Innovative Craft Fair, and interesting topics discussed at seminars with fashion industry leaders, highly skilled “trend gurus” from the design world who can guide you in your studies.

Want to reserve a copy? There’s more information available at www.sacict.or.th, and you can get the latest news at https://www.facebook.com/sacict/

Tea Café, Choui Fong Plantation, Chiang Rai Province

By livingasean
May 9, 2017
CULTURE,DESIGN

Choui Fong Plantation in Chiang Rai is a popular landmark for travelers. In 2016 its Tea Café was awarded a citation of excellence in the commercial and office building category by The Association of Siamese Architects under Royal Patronage (ASA).

/// Thailand ///
Story: Wuthikorn Suthiapa /// Photography: Sitthisak Namkham /// Designer: Idin Architects

The building’s left wing holds a shop filled with tea-related products.

Buildings split off radially for a panoramic view of mountains and fields.

If you have the good fortune to visit Doi Mae Salong, Chiang Rai Province, source of Thailand’s high-quality tea, you’ll pass through Mae Chan District. This is home to the Choui Fong Plantation, an enormously popular local tourist landmark. Besides the beautiful tea field landscape spreading as far as the eye can see, you’ll also find the truly chic Choui Fong Tea Café, in 2016 recipient of an architectural award from the Association of Siamese Architects.

The Choui Fong Plantation had been in tea leaf production long before its second-generation heir, Ping (Chanya Wanatsapithaksakul) made the improvements that put it on the agricultural tourism map, with a shop and stalls distributing many of his products and the café, which offers pastries and high-quality tea-based drinks. The delicious tastes and smells are enhanced by the setting: the ingenious architectural design of IDIN Architects which seems to spring right out of its gorgeous natural surroundings. The rectangular concrete structures, split into three interconnecting wings. are built into the hill at the highest point in the fields. Elegant by themselves, they are even more so in the context of nature. Visitors can walk around the hilltop roof and enjoy a 360-degree vista of tea fields, or look out from the lower deck while relaxing with tea and pastries, which can also be bought at the store.

Visitors walk down from the hilltop to enter the café complex.

With only a single post supporting each wing, the buildings seem light, as if floating midair.

Tea can be enjoyed on both the roof deck and the lower level.

Tea aficionados love the simple décor: pine wood gives a serene look which goes well with the scents and tastes, and all the building materials – steel, concrete, wood – retain their natural textures, bringing to bear the tea-drinking cultural values of honesty and simplicity, attracting both experts and amateurs into the tea world in all its depth.

Sipping tea here is much more than just experiencing delicious tastes, it’s experiencing the joys of life itself.

Evening atmosphere at Choui Fong Tea Café.

Link : http://www.idinarchitects.com/

A Boutique Farm Stay in Chiang Mai

By livingasean
May 5, 2017
CULTURE,DESIGN

A boutique farm-stay destination in norther Thailand has provided a good example of how a business could involve the community every step of the way. It thrives on showing respect and fitting in with local ways of living. It’s secret: City and local people stand to gain from each other’s presence and coexist in peaceful harmony with nature.

/// Thailand ///
Story: Punchat /// Photography: Supakorn Srisakul, Sitthisak Namkham /// Owner & Designer: Jak Ladpli

The farm stay offers four rooms with garden views at the rear of the building, one on each floor.

An architect from Bangkok recently started the boutique farm-stay in Mae Rim District, a 15-minute drive from central Chiang Mai. In a unique way he adapted to be in sync with the new environment and still remained very much in vogue. How did they do it? The answer can be found at the wholesome destination called “Chic 39.”

Farm stay owner Jak “Joke” Ladpli said his was an interesting piece of architecture in the middle of a lush landscape. Chic 39 is offering guest accommodation and operating in conjunction with the surrounding community. It thrives on a simple concept — Make the space modern and keep decor local.

“Call it modern local if you will,” said Joke. “As newcomers, we respect the community, its people, and their ways of life. In our hearts we are modern, kind of like a man donning business attire. But such a formal outfit would be out of place here. The contrast would be too obvious. So we chose a modern cube-shaped design, and paired it with materials that represented local values and wisdom.”

“That’s the metaphor defining our design concept. Like a business outfit made of folk fabric known as “Mo Hom,” the hotel building offers textures and finishing touches crafted of materials that are readily available locally. They include bamboo, palm tree trunks, and old-fashioned corrugated sheets.”

The farm stay involves the community in its day-to-day operations. Joke said: “In this area 4-5 villages are actively engaged in flower farming. Having done it for several generations, the growers produce cut flowers for a wide variety of decorations, from shops to hotels to even food. Especially yellow chrysanthemums, they prefer to grow them during winter months.”

Flower growers leave electric lights on at least three hours after sunset. Increased exposure to light helps flower stems grow a bit longer in time for harvesting.

At night the weather is cold, and the flower farm is aglow with colorful neon lights. “If you don’t feel like going to bed early, just hang out and enjoy the views,” Joke said, adding, “In fact, the lights are left on for a good reason. Increased exposure to light helps flower stems grow longer before they are harvested the morning after. “If you are an early riser, put on a pair of boots and go help the planters harvest some flowers.”

Agoda and the new colors of Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Bali, and Tokyo

By livingasean
April 25, 2017
CULTURE,DESIGN

Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Bali, and Tokyo redefined in photo collage: today Living ASEAN chats with Pariwat Anandachina, who has infused an Agoda tourism campaign with lively, colorful imagery.

/// Indonesia, Thailand ///

Agoda.com (of Agoda Company Pte., Ltd.) is one of the largest online booking networks, its more than 100,000 hotel offerings spanning the globe. In collaboration with Singapore’s Saatchi & Saatchi agency, Agoda has created “Agoda Base Camp,” a vibrant and innovative Indonesian tourism ad campaign designed to attract foreigners and Indonesians alike. Pariwat, known for his iconic photo collage art work, was a natural choice to present the campaign to viewers worldwide.

Base Camp features three staples of Indonesian tourism– Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Bali – adding perennial favorite Tokyo, Japan, with pictures of buildings, houses, and people representing local culture and lifestyles from every corner of those cities. The images were cut, mixed, and laid out in Agoda’s five primary colors to illustrate each destination’s highlights and character, as shown here.

Jakarta stands out for its mix of old and new. Here old and new architectural styles appear almost as reflections of each other, different, but fitting together in a charming way.

Yogyakarta/Jogya stands out for its mix of old and new. Here old and new architectural styles appear almost as reflections of each other, different, but fitting together in a charming way.

Bali is highlighted by nature itself, with its gorgeous beaches and healthy activities. This pictorial representation of the island also illustrates ghost worship, animist ceremonies presided over by shamans in colorful robes, and a native fascination with the occult.

Tokyo shows a mix of contemporary life and technological progress with a powerful sense of cultural preservation. This collage is presented in the uniquely Japanese “manga cartoon” style, split into viewing panels as in a comic book.

Pariwat spoke with us about how this four-city promotion came to be represented in his work. “We did extensive research on the highlights and character of each city, looking for ‘what’s hot and what’s not,’ to see what would get folks hooked on going there. Scheduling was a big challenge: we only had half a month to fly everywhere and take our pictures, so had to be creative, sometimes using pictures taken by others, or hotel pictures from Agoda, and these were often hard to match and balance with what we already had.”

The Base Camp campaign will use both printed ads and key visuals in video footage taken by Agoda and enhanced with animation.

Pariwat, Agoda Base Camp campaign designer

Link : http://pariwatstudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/agoda.mp4

http://pariwatstudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/agoda-_-base-camp-on-Behance2.mp4

http://pariwatstudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/agoda-_-base-camp-on-Behancec.mp4

http://pariwatstudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/agoda-_-base-camp-on-Behance.mp4

3D Cement Printing for Outdoor Living

By livingasean
April 19, 2017
CULTURE,DESIGN,SPECIAL SCOOP,SPOTLIGHT

Anon Pairot has unveiled the latest in a new series of 3D cement printing based on the concept “Fluctuation of Precision.” The masculine outdoor design with a softer touch is developed in collaboration with SCG, a leading cement maker in the ASEAN.

/// ASEAN ///

After many years of research, Thai cement maker SCG has developed robots capable of acting as large-scale 3D printers and new cement formulas well suited to a variety of uses. This year, the “Designer Collaboration Project by SCG” has come up with new ideas for outdoor furniture designed by nationally renowned designer and artist Anon Pairot.

“I try to create design that gives a softer, lighter feeling. Usually cement structures are very masculine, so I add feminine accents to the design and see what the final result is. The new process enables 3D concrete strips to be printed quickly in non-traditional shapes and textures. The concrete printing process is performed by machine, but the cement itself leaves some random effects on the surface, hence the name Fluctuation of Precision,” he explained.

SCG will present the entire cement furniture collection at Architect 17, the 31^st ASEAN Building Technology Exposition scheduled for May 2–7, 2017 in Thailand. It will be the first time ready-to-sell 3D cement printing products become available in the Region.

Link: http://www.scg.co.th/landing/index_en.html#en

http://www.anonpairot.com/

ASEAN Designers / Modern Craft Movement

By livingasean
April 8, 2017
CULTURE,DESIGN,PEOPLE

World design is increasingly trending toward handicrafts and elegant craftsmanship, things practically written into the DNA of Southeast Asian designers. Here we give you 20 contemporary regional leaders who are reinforcing this wave, bringing traditional design into mainstream design.

/// ASEAN ///

– Alvin Tjitrowirjo / Indonesia –

The dynamic Indonesian designer known as Alvin worked with prominent Dutch designer Marcel Wanders before setting up his own product design and interior decoration studio,collaborating with domestic producers of furniture and “alvin-T” decorative items that take a Western approach to Oriental craftsmanship.

– Thinkk Studio / Thailand –

The couple Decha Archjananan and Ployphan Theerachai’s Thinkk Studio is one of the most interesting sources of contemporary design. Their production processes unravel the secrets of traditional crafts, bringing them to utility in modern formats that always bear the marks of artistry and innovation.

– Korakot Aromdee / Thailand –

Korakot became well-known through his developing the local art of bamboo work, adapting techniques such as net sewing of Phetchaburi fishermen and ancient Chinese kite construction to produce inventive handicrafts under his own name. “Korakot” products are on display in residences and hotels all over the world, showing off endless variations of their characteristic elegance.

– Abie Abdillah / Indonesia –

Keep an eye on this designer, for sure! He specializes in rattan work, taking advantage of the worldwide importance of this material for Indonesia. The “Lukis” armchair is part of the 2016 collection for the famous Cappellini brand. Designer scout Giulio Cappellini previously has helped Tom Dixon and many other well-known designers debut on the world stage.

– Ito Kish / The Philippines –

“Gregoria Lounge”brought Filipino design work onto the world stage and gave world recognition to Ito Kish. As a child, Ito was fascinated by designs on the gift wrapping paper he used to repair family house walls in their tiny village outside of Manila. His business in decorative items has now morphed into a leading furniture store – with products bearing his name – which provides interior decorating services for his fans.

– Apiwat Chitapanya / Thailand –

A beauty of light and shadow born of intricate welded lines stands out in both structure and detail as an impressive representation from this modern craftsman and expert metal worker.

– Jitrin Jintaprecha / Thailand –

Jitrin’s works are continually in demand, most notably from his own rattan furniture brand “Corner 43,” whose trademark gentle curves are naturally suited to contemporary forms and which has evolved steadily over the fourteen years of its existence.

– Lim Masulin / Indonesia –

From his infatuation with the weaving work produced by Indonesian artists, highly valued in the West, Lim Masulin and his BYO Living Company collaborated with famous domestic architects to scale up the concept to an architectural level and produce fascinating “woven” coverings for buildings.

– Rush Pleansuk / Thailand –

This former designer for the teak wood furniture brand “Plato” became ever more interested in handicrafts, especially traditional Thai techniques of lacquer-coating and setting gold inlay on lacquer ware. He now has his own design studio under the name “Sumphat Gallery.”

– Hans Tan / Singapore –

In the colorful piece entitled “Spotted Nyonya,”Hans Tan presents a uniquely Singapore narrative. “Nyonya” refers to the Singapore heritage mixture off oreign and Malay Peninsula cultures, evident here in a contemporary design context.

– Budiman Ong / Indonesia –

“Ong Cen Kuang” is a brand of lamps from Bali founded by Budiman Ong, whose stellar career was founded on sewn forms of cloth and origami-style folded paper fashioned into contemporary articles that display warmth, gentility, and a delicate openness.

8 ASEAN Brands You Should Know

By livingasean
March 28, 2017
CULTURE,DESIGN

The ASEAN has long been a source for much of the industrial furniture sold in Europe and the United States. Nowadays manufacturers in the region can rightfully take pride in the design and production of many of their own Southeast Asian brands. The following is a brief “who’s who” of these brands.

/// ASEAN ///

– Jim Thompson / Thailand –

This Thai silk brand was founded in 1948 by American businessman Jim Thompson, who worked for the United States Army in Thailand. It first reached prominence with the gorgeous silks used in the 1951 movie “The King and I. Today Jim Thompson designs are done by Thai designers near where the silk itself is produced. It is still a leading brand for furniture textiles, costumes, ornamental cloth, and souvenir gifts Thais like to give foreign visitors.

– Kenneth Cobonpue / The Philippines –

Kenneth Cobonpue’s name is synonymous with a famous Filipino furniture brand. Kenneth stands high on the stage of world-class designers for his elegant combination of modern/contemporary design with the use of indigenous materials. His furniture has won the admiration of many Hollywood actors including Brad Pitt and Lucy Liu, and was used in sets for “Ocean’s Thirteen” and the series “CSI: Miami” and “Nip/Tuck.” He also created the “Voyage Bed” model used in Maroon 5’s music video “Never Gonna Leave This Bed.”

– Yothaka / Thailand –

Yothaka is a trend-setter in Thai furniture which has made a name for itself in the world market, especially Europe. Production of its unique and lasting furnishings began by using the water hyacinth, and now incorporates other raw materials, such as pineapple paper and various kinds of string, which add to the characteristic identity of Yothaka’ s contemporary designs. The brand was founded by Suwan Kongkhunthian, presently considered by his peers as one of the great modern designers.

– Schema / The Philippines –

Celia Gamboa Jiao, designer and founder of this brand, shortened the name from “Schema by Kalikasan Crafts,” as it was previously known in the lamp industry, and in collaboration with 3 designers – Filipino Antonio “Budji” Layug, the French Swiss Ségolène Aebi-Faye, and Thai Anon Pairot – developed a wider variety of products which use welding craftsmanship in transforming rough strips of galvanized iron into ornamental works of great beauty.

– Grafunkt / Singapore –

Besides having his “dance card” full of design work for such famous French and Italian furniture brands as Ligne Roset, Living Divani, and spHaus, Nathan Yong also has his own multibrand and furniture outlet under the name “Grafunkt.” Simplicity and elegance wrought with cleverness is the signature charm of Nathan Yong offerings.

– Deesawat / Thailand –

A brand of teak furniture which grew from a family sawmill business into a full-production shop over two generations, Deesawat features works from a new generation of designers representing many countries across Asia. Big names here include the great Japanese designer Toshiyuki Kita’s 2012 “Pumpkin Chair” piece.

– Triboa Bay Living / The Philippines –

Established by Filipino designer Randy Viray in 2008, Triboa Bay Living produces wooden furniture with an inherently simple, natural feel, with wood grain and detailed craftsmanship on display in a fine artistic mix perfectly suited for either residence or resort.

– Ock Pop Tok / Laos –

From humble beginnings as a tiny store founded in 2000 by English woman Joanna Smith and Lao Veomanee Douangdala, today Ock Pop Tok is a worthy representative of the highest craftsmanship and quality in Lao clothing and a leader in promoting principles of fair trade and sustainable business for the indigenous arts and crafts community.

Blog : DESIGN

This September the second Room x Living ASEAN Design Talk will be held under the title “ASEAN Architecture Design,” featuring a Thai architect and recipient of world-class awards from many institutions, M.L. Varudh Varavarn, founder of the firm Vin Varavarn Architects (VVA).

You may also like…

The official opening for the SACICT Innovative Craft Gallery has arrived, as Support Arts and Crafts International Center of Thailand continues its hallmark support of village-based folkcraft combined with modern design trends to produce eye-popping work and build lasting careers.

You may also like…

From the book SACICT Craft Trend 2018, published by Support Arts and Crafts International Center of Thailand, we take 10 pieces that combine some very hip design with contemporary materials and production and startlingly traditional folk elements. Let’s see what’s there . . .

You may also like…

SACICT Craft Trend 2018, the most recent book in an annual limited-edition line published by SUPPORT Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand, is a collection of analyses of new trends in handicrafts written by highly knowledgeable people in design circles.

You may also like…

Choui Fong Plantation in Chiang Rai is a popular landmark for travelers. In 2016 its Tea Café was awarded a citation of excellence in the commercial and office building category by The Association of Siamese Architects under Royal Patronage (ASA).

Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Bali, and Tokyo redefined in photo collage: today Living ASEAN chats with Pariwat Anandachina, who has infused an Agoda tourism campaign with lively, colorful imagery.

Anon Pairot has unveiled the latest in a new series of 3D cement printing based on the concept “Fluctuation of Precision.” The masculine outdoor design with a softer touch is developed in collaboration with SCG, a leading cement maker in the ASEAN.

World design is increasingly trending toward handicrafts and elegant craftsmanship, things practically written into the DNA of Southeast Asian designers. Here we give you 20 contemporary regional leaders who are reinforcing this wave, bringing traditional design into mainstream design.

– Alvin Tjitrowirjo / Indonesia –

– Thinkk Studio / Thailand –

– Korakot Aromdee / Thailand –

– Abie Abdillah / Indonesia –

– Ito Kish / The Philippines –

– Apiwat Chitapanya / Thailand –

– Jitrin Jintaprecha / Thailand –

– Lim Masulin / Indonesia –

– Rush Pleansuk / Thailand –

– Hans Tan / Singapore –

– Budiman Ong / Indonesia –

– Jim Thompson / Thailand –

– Kenneth Cobonpue / The Philippines –

– Yothaka / Thailand –

– Schema / The Philippines –

– Grafunkt / Singapore –

– Deesawat / Thailand –

– Triboa Bay Living / The Philippines –

– Ock Pop Tok / Laos –