In the heart of Bangkok, a sculptural building commands the attention. Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard, a 316-apartment building, is an inspired 60-storey high-rise complex that showcases remarkable architectural and design sensibilities.
The concept revolves around the word "petal". The structure's sculptural appearance, according to the designers, has been designed to introduce two layers of a three-dimensional architectural petals that spiral along the tower's full height and the podium's full length, as if springing up from the ground like a magnolia flower "to reveal the inner life of the building".
"The design of Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard deconstructs the typical tower and podium typology to render not a tower, but instead an elliptical skyscraper that balances the lyrical nature of a petal with tectonics as it moves vertically between ground and sky," said Surawat Hant, Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard's design director.
"Efficient elliptical floor plates at the tower and a sensuous podium optimise stunning wide-angle city views for residents and hotel guests. Overhung floor slabs and shading devices help protect occupants from the heat and glare of the Sun. The tower meets the sky as an open flower, gaining energy from the Sun with a roof of photovoltaic panels for penthouse residents' hot water usage."
Symbolically, the intertwining of the petal's curved line also represents a constant connection to the heart of people, and the heart of Bangkok.
Likewise the interior design is a sublime intersection between simplicity and elegance. All apartments feature lofty 3m-high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, oversized closets and the rich ambience of wide-planned smoked oak floors. The kitchens are spacious and open, and contain extraordinary features many of which are custom designed and manufactured by Bulthaup, such as stone work islands as well as high gloss lacquer German cabinets and pantry units. Also featured are custom design stone countertops, backsplashes and single under-mounted sinks by FRANKE, complemented by the highest quality Siemens kitchen appliances.
"Our vision is to be a perpetual global organisation that fosters community and benefits society and the country as a whole," said Surawat. "We are focused on developing projects that consolidate Thai society towards sustainability according to the philosophical guidelines of organisation. Therefore, Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard is to be developed to global standards of next-generation living, both in terms of technology and design."
