With only 6.9 sq.m. of green public space per capita, Bangkok falls 2.1 sq.m. below the WHO standard. Most public parks in the city are large and inaccessible due to heavy traffic, highlighting the need for smaller, more accessible green spaces in neighborhoods. In response to this, the POWWOWWOW Commercial Center by all(zone) seeks to utilize vacant lands in prime areas to create a model for sustainable urban living.
Promoting Community Engagement through Commercial Activities
The project aims to generate revenue through a variety of commercial activities catering to the neighborhood. Daily food stalls, cafes, weekend markets, and urban farming initiatives are integrated to foster a sense of community and engagement. By targeting different income groups, the center ensures financial viability while promoting social cohesion in the area.
Embracing Tropical Living Principles
Designed as a pavilion in the garden, the building adopts the basic typology of tropical living, featuring a large roof without walls. Existing vegetation is preserved, with the roof carefully positioned to accommodate every tree on-site, maintaining a green oasis atmosphere. Commercial activities are housed in five small boxes under the expansive roof, allowing for fluid circulation and interaction with the surrounding garden space.
Integrating Nature into Architecture
Opaque walls and fences are designed to be covered by vines, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. Natural air circulation is prioritized, providing visitors with opportunities to enjoy fresh air amidst the urban landscape. The landscape design emphasizes the preservation of green surfaces, with edible plants incorporated to promote urban farming and local traditions.
Enhancing Visitor Experience
Visitors are encouraged to engage with the environment by taking home parts of the edible plants, fostering a deeper connection to urban farming and sustainability. The center serves as a testament to the importance of green spaces in urban settings, offering a multifaceted approach to community engagement and environmental conservation.
The POWWOWWOW Commercial Center by all(zone) exemplifies innovative design solutions to address green space deficiencies in urban environments. Through its integration of commercial activities, tropical living principles, and nature-inspired architecture, the center serves as a vibrant hub for community engagement and sustainable urban living.
