Bangkok: Bangkok Design Week 2025 features groundbreaking projects from diverse designers aimed at tackling urban challenges through creativity. Highlights include parks from overlooked spaces, revamped transport systems, and eco-friendly initiatives that promote sustainability and inclusivity, positioning Bangkok as a model for urban transformation.
As part of the highly anticipated Bangkok Design Week 2025, various designers and cross-sector collaborators are exhibiting their innovative projects, showcasing the transformative potential of creativity in reshaping urban environments. This event is taking place against the backdrop of Bangkok, with a focus on addressing pressing urban challenges while promoting sustainable development and inclusivity within the city’s fabric.
One notable initiative is “Prompt Park,” a collaboration between we!park, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and the Embassy of the Netherlands. This project has successfully turned previously overlooked plots of land beneath a major expressway into a lively public park aimed at fostering relaxation and community interaction. Drawing on Dutch expertise in urban planning, Prompt Park features climate-resilient elements and integrates artistic installations termed Tactical Interventions that provide innovative solutions to Bangkok’s urban issues.
Another focal point of the event is the “Songthaew Transformation” exhibition, which reflects on the modernisation of Bangkok’s iconic shared transport vehicles, the songthaews. Historically significant yet increasingly outmoded, these vehicles present challenges such as safety, comfort, and accessibility. The exhibition showcases various design concepts that aim to enhance the operational efficiency and user-friendliness of the songthaew system, thereby improving daily commuting experiences for the public.
Environmental concerns are also a central theme at Bangkok Design Week, as the event registers plethora of creative solutions aimed at mitigating longstanding urban issues like waste management and the scarcity of green spaces. One major project is the “Mega Mat” by MVRDV Architects, executed in partnership with the Creative Economy Agency (CEA), the Embassy of the Netherlands, and PTT Global Chemicals. This sizeable 860-square-metre installation, crafted from recycled plastic that mirrors traditional Thai mat designs, emphasises the importance of recycling and integrates sustainability into the urban landscape at City Hall Square.
The project “Habitat Network” developed by AP Thailand further underscores the festival’s commitment to environmental restoration. By focusing on the creation of urban forests, this initiative strives to attract native bird species and promote biodiversity within Bangkok’s densely populated areas.
Alongside environmental initiatives, Bangkok Design Week 2025 spotlights economic revitalisation efforts through creative enterprises. NEIGHBOURMART Bangkok, established by CEA in collaboration with iliU, functions as a marketplace that highlights local businesses, bridging the gap between traditional markets and contemporary consumer culture. Additionally, the “Made in Phranakorn” project strives to connect creative professionals with historic businesses in the Phranakorn district, facilitating productive dialogues and fostering the rebranding of traditional products while preserving their authenticity.
Emerging businesses are showcased through the “Creative House” initiative run by CEA in association with Capital, a prominent business publication. This campaign aims to generate revenue and job opportunities while supporting over 60 selected creative enterprises.
Inclusivity is another cardinal value taking centre stage at this year’s design week, as exemplified by projects aimed at various demographics, including the elderly and local children. STUDIO150’s “Thai Alphabet Flashcards” is designed to enhance educational resources for younger learners, connecting traditional Thai letters with contemporary design. Similarly, the “Little more+” exhibition highlights small, often overlooked businesses in the Salak Hin alley, leveraging the insight from young local guides to encourage exploration of community-driven enterprises.
The initiative “Stand for Strays: Catsanova+ Ordinary Little Dogs,” which engages both governmental and non-governmental bodies to address stray animal welfare, is also on display. This effort promotes responsible animal care through artistic awareness campaigns aimed at encouraging adoption and sterilisation.
Lastly, the “Redesign services for the 60s+” workshop by RISE IMPACT offers a tangible exploration of the challenges faced by elderly citizens living in urban settings. Participants are prompted to engage deeply with the realities of aging, encouraging critical dialogue on how Bangkok can evolve to cater to the needs of all its residents, regardless of age.
Overall, Bangkok Design Week 2025 serves as an influential platform for demonstrating how creativity can facilitate meaningful urban change. The festival not only highlights innovative solutions for city challenges but also positions Bangkok as a leading example of how design can impact daily lives and foster diverse communities.
Source: Noah Wire Services
