Overlapping concrete arches frame Bangkok’s CentralWorld
Hong Kong-based architecture and interior design practice Linehouse has refurbished Bangkok’s CentralWorld shopping centre with a double-layered facade punctured by arches.
CentralWorld’s revamped facade and seven floors of retail space depart from typical shopping centres by drawing from the history of the site and creating opportunities for "peace in the chaos", according to Linehouse.
Speaking to Dezeen, a spokesperson said: "The design conceptually explores contradictions between the chaotic and peaceful nature of Bangkok, offering a moment of respite in a dense urban district.
"Located in an area once abundant in lily pads, we examined the stemming, radiating, and circular profile of the lily pads, translating this into a spatial narrative to the exterior and interior condition.”
The practice used CentralWorld's existing structure as an underlay for its design, with the updated facades formed of concrete arches applied over the original to frame views of the inside.
According to the studio, the existing perimeter skin of the facade was treated as black render and a secondary skin in concrete formwork was applied to break the regular rhythm of the column structure.
Openings are carved behind several of the external arches to host terraces and add visual porosity to the shopping centre.
Internally, a central atrium rises between the retail floors, shifting as it ascends to create a network of overlapping ceiling planes.
To support the shifting planes, Linehouse treated existing structural columns with radiating white fins that branch out to form distinctive canopies.
A food hall occupies the shopping centre's fourth floor and was configured to overlook the neighbouring park from the rounded facade opening.
Neutral materials, including timber and stone, line the interior to help create a calm atmosphere.
Subscribe to the weekly newsletter
