6 Famous Artists You Can’t Miss at the Bangkok Art Biennale 2018

By livingasean
October 8, 2018
ART,Bangkok Art Biennale 2018,CULTURE,HAPPENING,PEOPLE,SPECIAL SCOOP

The final countdown has begun. Every second brings you closer to a world-class contemporary art exhibition featuring 75 celebrated artists from across the globe. The Bangkok Art Biennale 2018 will begin on October 19 and continue until February 3, 2019. Happiness is only real when shared. So, mark your calendar!

Story: Singhanart Nakpongphun /// Photographs: (Wisut Ponnimit) Sitthisak Namkham /// Photo credit: Yayoi Kusama, courtesy of Ota Fine Arts, Tokyo /// Photos: courtesy of participating artists

The three-month period will see 20 famous landmarks around the capital transform into thriving art scenes, among them Wat Phra Chetupon, a.k.a. the Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho for short), the Bangkok Art and Cultural Center, and One Bangkok, a mega development project that’s shaping the future of the city. See also gallery details at the end.

Here are the first six artists that you can’t miss.

MARINA ABRAMOVIĆ

World renowned as a pioneer in performance art, Abramović uses her own body as medium in exploring the physical and mental limits of her being. She is best known for her groundbreaking durational works titled “The Artist is Present” hosted by the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City. The artist gave live performances from March to May 2010, during which she sat in silence at the table throughout the run of the show for a total of 736 hours. All day Abramović would not respond, but museum visitors were willing to wait in line for a chance to sit across from her for as long as they wanted.

The Bangkok Art Biennale 2018 offers the opportunity to experience the works of Abramović at two separate events. First, the exhibition titled “Standing Structures” provides a glimpse into the world of communication through silence. It takes place at the mega development project One Bangkok, located on Rama IV Road. And from October 8 to November 12, 2018 only, a team from the Marina Abramović Institute (MAI) presents the other event called “Method,” which is an exercise about being present in both time and space.

The exhibition “Standing Structures” explores interactive communication in silence.

“Method” is an exercise presented by a team of artists from the Marina Abramović Institute (MAI).

YAYOI KUSAMA

89-year-old Japanese contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama is passionate about polka dots. She has taken a great interest in the design since she was little. The Queen of Polka Dots, as she is affectionately called, also works in sculpture, painting, and installation. Her devotion to lively bright color patterns has influenced generation after generation of contemporary artists. No doubt one of the most famous artists in Japan, Kusama has won critical acclaim worldwide, including the Best Gallery Show awarded by the International Confederation of Art Critics in Belgium and several experimental cinema awards given by the Government of France. Her eye-catching design has attracted the attention of many, including the high fashion brand Louis Vuitton. As may be expected, the products of collaborative design with Kusama sold out fast.

It’s hard not to be romantic about Kusama’s beautiful works of art during the Bangkok Art Biennale 2018, among them the famous polka dots pumpkins that will be on view at Central World and Siam Paragon. Equally impressive is a Mini Cooper that has been pimped up Kusama style. The car is on show at One Bangkok.

“Inflatable Pumpkins Balloons” installations transform the perception of a space.

A mosaic of vivacious colors adorns a silver sculpture that’s part of a collection called “I Carry on Living with the Pumpkins”.

Black polka dots on red, part of the “I Carry on Living with the Pumpkins” collection.

CHOI JEONG HWA

Korean artist-cum-designer Choi Jeong Hwa has authoritative skill in effective us of space with many awards to his name. He is expert at building outdoor installations and turning unthinkable, day-to-day materials into stunning works of art. In 2008, he designed a large-scale installation that completely surrounded the Seoul Olympic Stadium with 1.7 million recycled and found objects. He also created a big plastic tree that pulsated with regular throbbing sensation as if it were breathing. Choi said that he had no definition to offer for his artworks. They were up to the viewers to interpret based on their different life experiences. His inspiration is encapsulated in one short sentence. “Your heart is my art.”

The Fruit Tree, a large-scale sculpture at Starfield Library inside COEX Department Store, Seoul, South Korea.

Works by the artist from the Land of the Morning Calm will be on show at the Bangkok Art and Cultural Center as well as Nai Lert Park Heritage Home and several department stores in Siam Square, Chidlom, and Rajprasong. Choi is to debut a collection of sculptures made from familiar materials that will put a smile on your face. Bring the smartphone and camera so you have something to share via social media.

“The Joker Crown” from Choi’s Happy Happy Project collection

“Love Me Pig 1” from the “Happy Happy Project

“The Inflatable Black Robot” from the Happy Happy Project

“The Stupa” from the Happy Happy Project

“Alchemy” an installation from the “Happy Happy Project

HUANG YONG PING

One of the most famous Chinese avant-garde artists, Huang Yong Ping founded a movement called “Xiamen Dada”, which combined ideas from Dadaism (an art movement in early-20th-century Europe) with the influence of Zen Buddhism in the Eastern Hemisphere. The Chinese-born, French contemporary artist made his world debut at the 48th Venice Biennale in 1999. Since then, he has participated in many art exhibitions, from the Red Brick Art Museum in China to Ludwig Museum in Germany to Grand Palais in France.

For the Bangkok Art Biennale 2018, Huang will present “Dragon Boat”, a large sculptural work that tells stories of Chinese migration in times past. Portraying a rowboat of ancient China, the 16-meter artwork stands 4.2 meters tall. It will be on show at the Bank of Thailand Learning Center.

“Dragon Boat” a major attraction at the Bank of Thailand Learning Center

Sculptures with reduced mass details will be on display at Wat Pho.

KAWITA VATANAJYANKUR

A rising star in Thailand’s art scene, Kawita Vatanajyankur uses video art to raise questions about issues concerning women’s rights. The artist puts herself through various situations as a means of demonstrating women’s roles in society. Her works portray a woman as part of machines, household chores, and industrial processes. The result is a collection of artworks in vivacious colors that have become her distinct identity. Kawita has exhibited at several art festivals around the world, among them the “Islands in the Stream”, which was part of the Venice Biennale 2018. The exhibition tour also took her to the Saatchi Gallery in London, and later the same year at the Thailand Eyes event at home.

For the Bangkok Art Biennale 2018, Kawita’s amazing works of art are on view at Central World, the EmQuartier Mall, the Peninsula Hotel, the Theatre of Indulgence, and the Asiatique Building. She sends a strong message: “It’s not easy being a woman.”

The “Shuttle and Performing Textiles” exhibition portrays a woman as shuttle carrying the weft thread between the warps on a loom.

A spinning wheel for making yarn and textile products.

A piece portraying women’s roles in textile dying.

WISUT PONNIMIT

The cartoonist who designed the cover for the 42nd Anniversary Edition of Baan Lae Suan Magazine (September 2018), Wisut Ponnimit is the creator of a series of animation art featuring adorable fictitious characters Miss Mamuang and her four-legged friend Manao.

For the Bangkok Art Biennale 2018, Wisut will present ten versions of animation art at Central World, the EmQuartier Mall, and the mega property project One Bangkok. If your love is art and animation, don’t miss out on it.

Miss Mamuang, the lovable character by animation artist Wusit Ponnimit, will debut at the Bangkok Art Biennale 2018.

This has been about six artists out of a total of 75 who exhibit at the Bangkok Art Biennale happening from October 19, 2018 to February 3, 2019. There are more stories on interesting people and events to come. Follow us at baanlaesuan.com and livingasean.com.

The art exhibitions are being held at 20 locations across the capital.

Click here to download HD map.

The BaanLaeSuan Fair Midyear 2018, Plenty of Events You Don’t Want to Miss

By livingasean
August 7, 2018
HAPPENING,SPECIAL SCOOP

The BaanLaeSuan Fair Midyear 2018 is scheduled for 4-12 August at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Center, Bang Na (BITEC Bang Na). Save the date! The annual event taking place at Halls 98 thru 104 showcases the latest in smart-home technologies and innovations designed to answer modern lifestyle needs. Hence, this year’s theme is aptly called the “Internet of Home.” Nowadays, microcomputers can be used for a variety of purposes, while the “Internet of Things” (IoT) has made it possible to monitor in-home safety, control lights and temperatures, and possibilities are endless. Needless to say the network of computing devices embedded in everything home has changed the way we live in one way or another. That being said, the houses of the future will look significantly different. And we don’t want you to miss out on it.

Entrance to the “Internet of Home” Exhibition

The entrance hall is the first stop on your journey into the BaanLaeSuan Fair Midyear 2018. Reduced ornamental details are intended to make the entryway beautiful and welcoming as a photo-op venue. Plus, it’s about keeping it simple.

Whether it be a flight of stairs, door frames, or window casings, every house part is a symbol that communicates the ideas and the quality of being useful and suitable in modern circumstances. Meantime, the lighting arouses enthusiasm, while a television screen gives handy hints about what’s on display inside.

BaanLaeSuan Home Ideas
Smart Home Where Things Work by Voice Command

There are technologies aplenty to make your home smart and capable of answering modern lifestyle needs.

While the Internet of Things allows business to connect with technology with amazing results, the Internet of Home offers a glimpse into the future of human dwellings, especially the kind that’s controlled by microcomputers and a network of interconnected devices. Take for example a voice command that works by converting the analog waves of human voices into digital data that in turn cause machines and other systems to operate.

This part of the show illustrates how technological advancements are being used to create modern conveniences in every part of the home. And it’s happening now. The areas already benefiting from smart home technologies, such as voice recognition and related applications, are:

The Kitchen, dining room, and backyard: The kitchen serves multiple functions. Both the countertop and the island designed for food preparation can transform into bar counters or dining room furniture when needed. Here, three design options are operated by voice command. They are:

1.In the Morning, the lighting over the kitchen countertop and nearby island operates by voice commands. At the same time, the TV set turns itself on to bring in morning news.

2.Romantic Nighttime View. Voice commands turn off the lights in the kitchen by night, while the dining room and nearby backyard remain fully lit culminating in romantic dinner experience.

3.When it’s party time, all the lights in this area turn on, while the stage is aglow under the lights in many vibrant colors. At the same time, the stereo system turns on and fills the room with the sound of music.

The exhibition also showcases a part of the backyard that’s equipped with charging facilities for electric cars. The area can be easily updated to suit different purposes in future.

The bedroom, dressing room, and bath: The dressing area and adjacent bathroom come complete with smart mirrors that operate by a voice-recognition app. Two sets of commands are on display in this part of the show.

1.In the morning, a voice command opens the curtains to allow the bedroom to bask in the early morning sun when the temperatures are mild. At the same time, the lighting in the dressing room turns on.

2.By night, the curtains are closed and bedroom lights are turned off by the voice-command app, turning the bedroom into a cool and restful place.

Having seen enough of home decorating ideas, it’s time to head for the Book House E-commerce Café. It’s a quiet hangout for people with a passion for reading, and you are welcome to download something to read for free for 24 hours.

Take your time to browse around the store for new book releases from BaanLaeSuan Printing and Publishing, or just lean back and chill out with a cup of fresh-brewed coffee.

Graphic illustrations of the “Internet of Home” concept

The Chairmen of Thai Design, A Room Magazine Showcase at The BaanLaeSuan Select Fair

By livingasean
May 14, 2018
HAPPENING,SPECIAL SCOOP

A chair exhibition featuring works by distinguished Thai designers … You will yearn to add one to your collection.

“The Chair” is one of the greatest inventions. Since a long time ago, with dexterous hands and logical minds, humans have crafted more chairs than we ever know. Even now, most furniture brands and design studios continue to come up with amazing new designs. Plenty of good reasons they should never stop!

Design isn’t about just drawing to show the look and function of a product. Rather, it has to do with showing good aesthetic judgment, something that helps people enjoy the magic of sculpture. In a nutshell, the chair is more than a separate seat to sit in. It’s a million experiences.

Well-thought-out design gives us a sense of connection to events past and present. Whether it’s looked at from a cultural, economic, technological, or social perspective, the chair offers a wide range of benefits and serves the purpose for which it’s intended.

Organized by the capable team of Room Magazine, the Chairmen of Thai Design showcases a fascinating array of works by Thai designers who are experts in the field. You will find plenty of great ideas on view that heralded a new chapter in Thai furniture design, including products that have won critical acclaim both at home and abroad.

As business adapts to a rapidly changing world, you are invited to join us in celebrating the creativeness of Thai designers. Together, they go to work applying more effort toward achieving a higher goal.

A major attraction at BaanLaeSuan Select Fair, the Chairmen of Thai Design exhibition will happen at the Plenary Hall, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, May 30 to June 3, 2018.

A special event on Friday June 1 from 4 to 6 p.m., meet up with distinguished designers who showcase their products at the show. At the risk of stating the obvious, the informal gathering is about the chair and how things have changed. We don’t want you to miss it.

Designers from 30 studios showcasing at the Chairmen of Thai Design

1.The Savannah, Yothaka, by Suwan Kongkhuntian
2. The Rush Chair, o-d-a studio, by Piti Amraranga and Jutamas Buranajade
3. The Sputnik, Salt and Pepper Design studio for Corner 43 Decor, by Anchana Thongpaitoon and Pipidh Khowsuwan
4. The Wave, Ayodhya studio, by M.L. Pawinee Santisiri
5. The Noodle Stool, 56^th Studio, by Saran Yenpanya
6. The Fluctuation of Precision, Anon Pairot studio for SCG, by Anon Pairot
7. The Brace Stool, Deesawat, by Jirachai Tangkijngamwong
8. The Grid, Dot Design studio for Galvanii, by Krit Phutpim
9. The Batten, Thinkk studio for Tectona, by Decha Archjananun and Ploypan Theerachai
10. The Sumo, Mobella, by Anuphon YooYuen
11. The Kiri, Mobella, by Ath Supornchai
12. The Jaak Stool, Tima studio, by Supachai Klaewtanong
13.The Radee, Bambunique, by Amornthep Kachanonda
14. The Ele 1.1 Dining, by Doonyapol Srichan
15. The Tori, Golf-JC studio, by Jakkapun Charinrattana
16. The Fig, Masaya, by Apiwat Chitapanya
17. The Waterweed, Sumphat Gallery, by Rush Pleansuk
18. The Core Chair, Trimode studio for Corner 43 Decor, by Pirada – Paradee Senivongse na Ayudhya, and Shinpanu Athichathanabadee
19. The Tension, Plural Designs, by Piboon Amornjiraporn
20. The Placer, Whoop, by Pitchaya Maneerattanaporn
21. The Bangkok Taxi, Everyday studio, by Wuthichai Leelavoravong and Dr. Siriporn Kobnithikulwong
22. The Sora, Satawat Design, by Ratthee Phaisanchotsiri
23. The Anonymous Chair, PHTAA studio, by Ponwit Ratanatanatevilai, Harisadhi Leelayuwapan, and Thanawat Patchimasiri
24. The Cane, Atelier2+ studio, by Worapong Manupipatpong and Ada Chirakranont
25. The Gom, Hari Ora, by Chayanin Sakdikul and Nutdanai Siribongkot
26. The Enso, Flo, by Naroot Pitisongswat
27. The Lock, Room Lab, by Vongsatorn Chaicherdchuvong
28. The Saturno, Kenkoon, by Pichak Tanarojviboon
29. The Chamfer, Plato, by Noraset Sabai
30. The Suite, Studio AB, by Apirat Boonruangthaworn

Vernacular Houses around the ASEAN

By livingasean
May 6, 2018
HAPPENING,SPECIAL SCOOP

If you are interested in design based on local needs, local materials, and local traditions, you will find vernacular building exhibitions well worth a visit.

/// Thailand ///

The expo area features 5 show pavilions designed by the design firms.

Five show pavilions are open now at Architect ’18, the ASEAN’s largest building technology exposition organized by the Association of Siamese Architects (ASA). It’s happening on May 1-6, 2018 at Impact, Muang Thong Thani.

Plastic crates filled with clay are readied for the show at Architect ’18.

Other attractions range from a photography display by Vernacular Built Environment and Cultural Heritage Studies Group, and exhibitions by various architectural firms, to retail businesses, and seminars featuring distinguished speakers from Thailand and abroad.

The expo’s must-see events include a show pavilion by Boon Design, which presents building techniques using materials readily available in a locality, such as plastic crates for fruit transportation filled with clay.

Inside one of the show pavilions dedicated to vernacular-style living

The dark exterior that is characteristic of the Boon Design show pavilion

Designer Boonlert Hemvijitraphan said: “Traditionally, earth has been a material of choice for home building while plastic crates come in handy as byproducts of the industry. The choice of materials is often dictated by availability in a particular area. Homes can be made of anything, whether it’s earth or wood, so long as they are adapted to suit local needs and requirements.” Like so, a vernacular house in Southeast Asia may appear dim on the inside because there are only a few openings. Lace fabrics on the windows tell stories of clever adaptations to suit local weather conditions.

Vernacular houses on the waterfront in Myanmar, Cambodia, and Thailand

photograph reflects local beliefs and customs around the Region.

The building techniques differ from country to country across Southeast Asia as illustrated by the photo exhibition by the Vernacular Built Environment and Cultural Heritage Studies Group. Its members include Isarachai Buranaut, Kullphut Seneevong Na Ayudhaya, Somchai Chuechuaychu, and Surapong Jamniyom.

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Remix DEESAWAT at Bangkok Design Week 2018

By livingasean
January 27, 2018
CULTURE,DESIGN,HAPPENING,SPECIAL SCOOP

Remix Deesawat; Upcoming Event at “Bangkok Design Week 2018,” The Creativity festival which designed to be a showcase for creative and design works and innovations driven by creativity and design thinking.

/// THAILAND ///
Story: Bundaree Deewong /// Photography: Deesawat

Bangkok Design Week 2018 brings together experimental and commercial works, creative businesses and socially-oriented projects with the aim to foster creative cooperation by sharing of knowledge and experience, to provide inspirations and to facilitate networking and business opportunities while putting the spotlight on the city’s design and creative potential on the global stage.

Remix Deesawat
Bangkok Design Week 2018
27 January – 4 February 2018
10.00 am. to 20.00 pm. (Everyday)
Avenue: Showroom Deesawat, Sukhumvit 24, Bangkok

Enjoying with Remix Deesawat event with the showcase of the ASIA STAR TALENT with the various creative activities as Designer presentation, Architect talk and so on. It’s happening from 27 January to 4 February 2018 at 10.00 am. – 20.00 pm. (Everyday). This exhibition will take place at Showroom Deesawat soi Sukhumvit 24 Bangkok.

For the interested program as follow:

Material Maker

Meet the craft material maker from Japan (Matel, washi(paper), fabric, etc). Find out the new era of the material that has been developed into a new combination of material for creative product. Together with this showcase, is also the innovation material from Thai manufacturer.

Asia STAR TALENT

Showcase of the Design Gallery from ASIA STAR Talent. With the designer from Japan, Singapore, Philippine and Thailand. With the creative talent…and unique cultural back ground..this will be the showcase that represent culture and innovation.

WOOD x ARCHITECT

Meet the Japanese architecture Mr. Kiyoshi Iuchi from Soramado Architect from JAPAN…that will create the value of wood into the construction. As the trend of the wood and the new concept of architect…Mr.Kiyoshi will present the concept where wood is now back in trend material for architectural work. IFFS (International Furniture Fair Singapore) Opening of the new opportunity for the new design showcase for Thailand young designer at IFFS Singapore.

Maison&Objet

New concept new layout market strategy for Maison&Objet Paris. Target for exhibitor and visitor for September 2018 preparation.

For more information: Deesawat
Link: http://www.baanlaesuan.com/93255/design/remix-deesawat/

The Third “Room x Living ASEAN Design Talk”

By livingasean
October 23, 2017
HAPPENING,SPECIAL SCOOP

For the third time, Room x Living ASEAN Design Talk will be held to coincide with the 2017 Baan Lae Suan Fair from October 27 to November 5 at IMPACT Challenger Hall 3, Muang Thong Thani.

/// Thailand ///

Titled “A Talk with Design-Conscious People,” the event features a panel of six leading designers, who will touch upon their experience in design with care and responsibility for the environment. These are the people who are conscious of the extent of the problem we are facing right now.

We trust you will find this year’s discussion as inspiring as it is interesting, and would like to invite you to attend. Reserve a seat at: www.baanlaesuan.com/designtalk-register

A Talk with Design-Conscious People

Sanam Luang Then and Now: A Glimpse from the Past

By livingasean
October 22, 2017
SPECIAL SCOOP

Come October 26, 2017, the people from across the country will converge on Sanam Luang in a show of respect, appreciation, and gratitude for their most beloved monarch. Royal cremation in honor of the late His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej is scheduled to take place right here on the open field north of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Grand Palace.

/// Thailand ///
Story: Samutcha Viraporn /// Photo: National Archives of Thailand, room magazine, Perapun Vichitkraivin

Flashback: An aerial shot of Sanam Luang taken by a foreign visitor, date unknown.

Fit for a king, the royal funeral ceremony took many months in the making. Detailed design and planning culminates in a superlatively crafted Royal Crematorium that stands embraced by beautiful pavilions at the center of Bangkok’s cultural landscape.

The architectural masterpiece will be the venue of a landmark event as the citizens traverse hundreds of miles to bid their beloved king a fond and final farewell. It will be touching moments for many Thais, hence a tremendous turnout is to be expected.

The Royal Crematorium in honor of the late His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Thong Sanam Luang, 2017 // Photo: room magazine

Formerly known as “Thung Phra Main,” which is Thai for Royal Cremation Ground, Sanam Luang is more than just an open public square. It’s a million memories in the lives of many citizens. Traditionally it’s here that kings and queens and high-ranking royalty were honored in the most appropriate of ceremonies at the end of life’s journey.

The like of which is happening on Thursday the 26^th of October, when people turn out in full force to show their respect and utmost admiration for the late King Rama IX of the House of Chakri.

For the record, the field has undergone several name changes over time. As a royal funeral ground, it was appropriately called “Thung Phra Main” during the reigns of King Rama I and II. It became a productive rice paddy field in the period of King Rama III. Later it was King Rama IV, who renamed it “Thong Sanam Luang” – purportedly because the old name did not bode well for the future. The new identity caught on fast as it was required by law.

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Grand Palace as seen from Sanam Luang in 1925

The Royal Crematorium celebrating King Rama V provides inspirations for the funeral ceremony in honor of the late H. M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Part of the procession transporting the relics of King Rama V in 1910

A solemn procession transporting the relics of King Rama V from the crematorium

Tamarind trees gave Sanam Luang its unique character. The landscape was improved during the reign of King Rama V, who had multiple tamarind trees planted along the perimeter of the field upon his return from travel to Indonesia. It was said that he was inspired by the palaces of the sultans of Yogyakarta, and Surakarta at the time.

Military hardware on show at Sanam Luang in 1953

Tamarind trees and rickshaws were usual sights around Sanam Luang in 1953.

Municipality workers were out cutting grass over a large area.

A 1953 shot of one of the further ends of Sanam Luang

A lot had happened since the centenary of Bangkok in 1882 and the subsequent celebration of King Rama V’s return from Europe. There were times when Sanam Luang was used for horse racing, golf courses, military hardware displays, flea markets, centenary celebrations, as well as R and R facilities for the general public. Not to mention outdoor spaces for picnicking, kite flying, and venues for political stump speeches. There were even times when the homeless were camping out and prostitutes accosting passers-by to offer service. One thing led to another, an attempt to revamp Sanam Luang went into effect in 2010. At one time the authority erected a perimeter fence around the field preventing public access.

A shot of Sanam Luang and Rajadamnoen Avenue from higher elevations taken in 1982

Flashback: Leafy tamarind trees shaded the walkway against the sun for much of the day.

Sanam Luang was home to a thriving flea market on weekends from 1958 to 1982. The retail industry was later relocated to a vacant lot on Pahonyothin Road, which later became known as Jatujak Market today.

Shop-houses on Na Phra Lan Road across the street from the Grand Place

A Thai-style pavilion erected as part of the Bangkok Bicentennial Celebrations in 1982

Archways and public displays drew attention to the bicentennial celebrations in 1982.

A building near Sanam Luang put on a display promoting the 1982 bicentennial celebrations.

Rajadamnoen Avenue was aglow under street lamps in1982.

The Royal Crematorium in honor of the late His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Thong Sanam Luang, 2017 // Photo: Perapun Vichitkraivin

After many months in the making, Sanam Luang (literally Royal Turf) was restored to its original glory and is now reserved for royal funeral ceremonies.

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STYLE 2017: Asia’s Most Stylish Fair in Bangkok

By livingasean
October 18, 2017
HAPPENING,SPECIAL SCOOP

STYLE 2017, the region’s most comprehensive lifestyle trade show, is happening now in Bangkok. Embracing the concept “Life+Style,” it is fast becoming a global marketplace attracting over 60,000 buyers and poised to transform Bangkok into a regional hub of the lifestyle industry.

/// Thailand ///
Photography: Nantiya

STYLE is the region’s largest and most comprehensive lifestyle trade show, comprises three main events in one, namely: Bangkok International Fashion Fair and Bangkok International Leather Fair: BIFF&BIL, Bangkok International Gift Fair and Bangkok International Houseware Fair: BIG+BIH and Thailand International Furniture Fair: TIFF. The fair is hosted by The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) between October 17-21, 2017 at BITEC Bangna with local and international entrepreneurs across 2,000 sales booths and expected 2,000 million Baht worth of business transaction.

STYLE 2017 assists and caters to all needs of all parties with the offering of specialized services to accommodate both exhibitors and visitors. These include business matching services at Buyer Lounge assisted by interpreters of many languages such as English, Chinese and Japanese; DITP SERVICE CENTER that combines all DITP services in one spot and Logistic Consultancy on the ground to provide logistic solution and facilitate on-site goods transport

Besides, STYLE 2017 renders itself as a source of inspiration with 20 fascinating exhibitions as well as trend updates, design inspiration, fashion and lifestyle trends that can developed into business opportunities. Fashion buffs should not miss Trend Forum 2018, QURATED Fashion Incubation Project and other co-hosted exhibitions to inspire and offer designers and creators a platform to showcase their creativity and develop ideas to become tangible products. DITP also teams up with Chaipattana Foundation to host an exhibition in honor and remembrance of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej with workshop of funerary flower making made from vetiver grass for the royal cremation.

STYLE is held between October 17-21 2017 (trade days : October 17-19,10am-6pm and public days: October 20-21 , 10am-9pm) at Hall 98-104, Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC).

Link : www.stylebangkokfair.com

Highlights of the 2017 Baan Lae Suan Fair: “Remembering Our Guiding Light”

By livingasean
October 9, 2017
HAPPENING,SPECIAL SCOOP

It’s almost as if you were walking right into the pages of Baan Lae Suan Magazine itself! Bigger than ever, the 2017 Baan Lae Suan Fair fills the entire exhibition hall with presentations and sales of a huge variety of house and garden products. Expositions, activities, information, and updates on what’s trending now are grouped under the headings “Design,” “Living,” and “Outdoor Living.”

/// Thailand ///
Story: Baanlaesuan / Photography: Rittirong Tongjunsuk

This year’s theme: “Remembering Our Guiding Light.”

This year’s theme is about interdependence. How do we live together in a relationship of mutual benefits? Through the ages mankind has found the answer in nature’s own secret: All things, living and non-living, need balance for sustainable existence. Balance in this sense doesn’t mean “equality,” but rather mutual fulfillment: if there’s a surplus on one side, use it to fill a deficit elsewhere. Keep things in the right balance, neither too hot nor too cold. Whether among people or generally in nature, a balanced interdependence results in beautiful growth and the memories that last forever. And we vow to never forget the one who sent a guiding light for us to follow.

1. Demonstration houses: “Divide – Connect – Abundance”

These three words illustrate the concept of living together. Divide usable space, possessions, and wealth to create utility. Connect with others, become closer through mutual dependence. Find Abundance in living together. Demonstration homes are structured around mutually dependent living, with common dining, kitchen, and bathroom spaces, while at the same time each structure has its own relaxation and activity areas geared to individual lifestyles and preferences.

2. Garden Zone – by Baan Lae Suan Publishing

This zone is one of Baan Lae Suan Publishing’s biggest hits, returning this year under the theme “Backyard Garden.” Take delight in small garden spots, relaxing corners in a gazebo, and other examples of how to make full use of space around the house. Here organic agriculture fans can learn about soil care and growing vegetables, and participate in free workshops. Absolutely not to be missed! Follow up on activity schedules and find the workshops you’ve been waiting for at www.facebook.com/Baanlaesuanbooks

Garden Plants Competition

At this year’s biggest plants competition, you’ll find unique and hard-to-find species that will arouse curiosity and interest. The plant life from all regions comes together in a single place at the 2017 Baan Lae Suan Fair.

Competition Categories:

Cactus and succulents: Oct. 28
Orchids: Oct. 30-31
Ferns: Nov. 1
Bromeliads: Nov. 3-4

3. “My Home” Workshop Space

Interior decoration is the topic of exhibitions and workshops under the theme “My Home School,” an event featuring a series of flashbacks of happy childhood memories. There’s a fun spot set up for taking pictures, which children will love. Adults will find plenty of great ideas for home décor. It’s an opportunity to try their hand at creating something in the workshop area.

4. Room Pavilion Zone
Multiple house design products in a super-cool atmosphere

Room Magazine returns with an exhibition called “Room Square,” a super-chic café with a menu created just for the Fair. Here you can also get inspirations for your own designs and décor at “Design Talk” seminars held in collaboration with LivingASEAN.com.

Hope to see you all at the 2017 Baan Lae Suan Fair, October 27 to November 5, IMPACT Challenger Hall, Muang Thong Thani. For more information, go to: http://www.baanlaesuan.com/fair2017/

Room x Living ASEAN Design Talk Vol.2 (Myanmar): ASEAN ARCHITECTURE DESIGN

By livingasean
October 3, 2017
SPECIAL SCOOP

Besides the honor of Living ASEAN’s being a presenter and media partner at the fourth Myanmar Build & Décor Fair, one of this year’s event highlights was its invitation of leading Thai architect M.L. Varudh Varavarn of Vin Varavarn Architects (VVA) as keynote speaker on the topic “ASEAN Architecture Design.”

/// Myanmar ///
Story: Nawapat D., PM Praphatsorn /// Photography: Damrong Lee, PM Praphatsorn

The fourth Myanmar Build & Décor Fair, September 28 -30 at Myanmar Event Park (MEP) in Yangon, Myanmar, organized by well-known event planner ICVeX and affiliates, was just as great as in any of the three previous years, full of fully furnished booths surrounded by enthusiastic admirers.

Besides Living ASEAN’s honor at being a presenter and media partner at the fourth Myanmar Build & Décor event, one of this year’s highlights was its invitation of leading Thai architect M.L. Varudh Varavarn, founder of Vin Varavarn Architects (VVA) and recipient of world-class awards from many institutions, as keynote speaker on the topic “ASEAN Architecture Design.” This attracted a large audience who were completely captivated with his speech.

Before turning the microphone over to M.L. Varudh Varavarn, the seminar was introduced by Mr. Jeremiah Pitakwong, Managing Editor of the Baan Lae Suan (House and Garden) Magazine Group, taking the stage to speak on the topic of “Modern Tropical Region,” showing seminar participants many facets of “modern tropical” architecture.

He used the example of the Amarin Printing and Publishing offices, designed and built with a shady, refreshing atmosphere by Plan Architect, one of Thailand’s leading architectural firms, whose prime focus is on living intelligently in hot, humid conditions.

“We’re lucky to be living and working in one of the best examples of modern tropical architecture in both the smaller buildings and the taller ones. We don’t have elevators, but there are long covered walkways where we get to experience the heat in hot weather and the wetness of the rainy season,” said Mr. Pitakwong.

He went on to introduce Living ASEAN, an online subsidiary of Amarin, as well as magazines, books, and TV programs that bring concepts of modern tropical living to readers and audiences, and spoke about the Baan Lae Suan Fair, which brings together Amarin’s own modern tropical community, as he drew on his own impressions in many years of travel and photographing houses all around the ASEAN region to find ways to inspire others.

M.L. Varudh Varavarn’s talk, aiming both to educate and inspire, was based on three of his most impressive and internationally recognized projects: 1) The Pine Crest Residence, a modern residence on Soi Tonson in Bangkok, simply designed for the most comfortable living, 2) Botanica Khao Yai, a resort project located in the well-known vacation area of Thailand like Khao Yai, and 3) finally, one of his favorite works, Bann Huay San Yaw – Post Disaster School. This was one of 9 “por dee por dee (perfectly adequate)” classrooms in the Design for Disaster (D4D) relief project for schools damaged in the May 5, 2014 6.3 magnitude Chiang Rai earthquake.

“The day after it happened, the Thai disaster relief network D4D sent me pictures on my phone and asked me to participate in designing and building new schools for children in northern Thailand. You’d never want to have kids have to study in those miserable conditions, so I said I’d be very happy to join the program and do everything I could to help,” explained M.L. Varudh, while showing pictures of students studying in emergency classrooms that were simply unacceptable places to study, and where he’d followed up by building a new school building to replace the ones that had collapsed. This became a demonstration structure whose design other victims of the Chiang Rai disaster could adapt for use in building earthquake-resistant houses.

After the lectures, many seminar participants came up to Living ASEAN booth to chat and ask questions and in the hopes of talking and getting better acquainted with M.L. Varudh and the Living ASEAN website work team, as the first “ROOM x LIVING ASEAN DESIGN TALK” event in Myanmar created quite a positive buzz. We are looking forward to next year, and thinking about which architects we’ll invite to speak then.

Blog : SPECIAL SCOOP