Thavorn
Inter Corporation (TIC) is located on a rectangular plot of land bordered by
Rong Muang Road, a public canal and Bantadthong Road. The neighborhood is an
eclectic mix of commercial and residential, reflecting the diversity of urban
life. There are shop houses, eateries, car repair garages, government
buildings, a sports field, apartments and student accommodation. Chulalongkorn
University also has plans to expand the roadway to the waterfront, resulting in
a broader view for the new TIC building at both the front and rear frontage.
The
cubic form occupies the whole plot, with setback and height in compliance with
Building Regulations. As a multi-functional building, the working space,
offices, warehouse and the owner’s residential area were sectioned with
separate entrance and exits and clear circulation. Green space was created at
the setback area to the front, aesthetically designed to set it apart from its
neighbors. The building’s cubic form, materials used and seemingly random
perforations on the façade all serve the functions and use of space within the
building.
The
façade design is an expression of the company’s expertise in earth moving
equipment and machinery. Perforations of various sizes allows natural light
into the interior spaces and serves as ventilation to prevent heat retention.
The perforated patterns on the smooth façade skin mimic the imprint made by
excavators when digging and moving soil and other material.
The
glazed façade at the offices on the first and second floors gives the building
a lighter feel and a welcoming appearance. It also affords the public a view of
the workings of a high-standard office environment. The
third to sixth floor of the building is clad with aluminum composite sheets
with perforations to allow natural daylight into the building’s
warehouse/stockroom areas. This façade also acts as a double skin, providing
privacy to the residential floors.
The two
topmost floors are allocated as the owner’s residence, with an Inner Court
offering indoor green space for family relaxation. Added perforations on the
upper portion of façade provides natural light and ventilation, creating a
perfect comfort zone while also ensuring added privacy.