TK studio creates a forest-like landscape for Foster + Partners' Bangkok neighborhood

AN URBAN FOREST FOR ‘THE FORESTIAS’ IN BANGKOK

TK studio has shaped the landscaping for ‘the forestias’, a multi-generational neighborhood designed by Foster + Partners. Located on the outskirts of Bangkok in Thailand, the new residential development prioritizes the wellbeing of residents and features a 48,000 sqm urban forest at its center, designed by TK studio.

The ‘forest pavilion’ stands as a gateway to the forest-like landscape. Currently serving as the sales gallery, the pavilion will later be converted into ‘the forestias ecosystem learning center’, an experience hub with interactive exhibits.

‘SYMBIOSIS WITH NATURE’

When creating this urban forest, TK studio sought to support the happiness and wellness of residents and create an immersive experience of living with nature. The landscape designers carried out research and from their findings, they decided to dedicate the majority of the area to green space that can be seen from every angle of the pavilion.

TK studio’s concept for the landscape design is described as ‘symbiosis with nature’, which embraces a number of goals including balancing human activities with the growth of the urban forest and providing the authentic experience of living in the forest.

Surrounding the building are nature paths and elevated walkways designed to turn the manmade form of the pavilion into the organic freeform of the forest, and to attract people to go outside and enjoy the natural environment. The landscaping also includes an outdoor amphitheater, an events lawn, and a stepped water feature, which, unlike typical water features, invites kids and adults alike to play.

To create the landscape, TK studio planted 183 indigenous species of plants and trees and a total of 23,258 saplings. The aim is to establish biodiversity on the site, which will grow and evolve along with current and future generations of the forestias residents. The landscaping also prioritizes sustainable design with international standards of SITES, WELL, and LEED all implemented.

Happiness—a simple yet powerful manifesto advocated in the forestias. It is the ideal living sanctuary that demonstrates the happiness of dwelling within the urban forest,’ says TK studio about the project.

‘A good quality environment will lead to good health and longevity of residents, and it also creates a kind and warm society for generations of families. Residents will share mutual benefits with nature harmoniously, learning to be part of nature and raising awareness to create a better and more sustainable world. Hopefully, this can be a turning point for housing developments in the country and lead to a series of high-quality housing projects.’

Project info:

Name: forest pavilion

Location: The forestias, Samut Prakan, Thailand

Landscape design: TK studio

Lead landscape designer: Tawatchai Kobkaikit

Landscape design team: Nantawan Sirisup,Punyada Klinpaka,Passaporn Shompoopun,Nottaporn Gatewattanatorn,Patcharanat Phokhinthanasiri, Nikom Mangiew, Sirikun Thirawatthanaset, Tummanoon Jaitheing, Wasin Somsak

Additional project credits:

Architect: Foster + Partners

Local architect: DT design

Interior designer: BUG & DT design

Structural and civil engineer: EEC Lincolne Scott

MEP engineer: EEC engineering network

Lighting specialist: APLD

Hardscape contractor: Christiani & Nielsen

Softscape contractor: CPS

Quantity surveyor: AECOM

Sustainability consultant: Atelier Ten

Design year: 2018-2019