We recently spoke with the talented pair Setthakarn Yangderm and Parpis Leelaniramol, Founders and Design Directors at TOUCH Architect, about sustainable architecture, the evolution of Thai design, their creative inspirations, and more.
As part of our Thai Design in Focus series, we caught up with Setthakarn Yangderm and Parpis Leelaniramol, Founders and Design Directors at TOUCH Architect, a Bangkok-based design studio established in 2014.
With a design philosophy that prioritizes cultural, environmental, and contextual considerations, their striking, eye-catching designs reflect a commitment to sustainability and functional, adaptable architecture.
In this interview, the talented pair discuss how Thai design shapes their approach, the integration of traditional and modern elements, and the impact of emerging technologies like AI on the future of Thai architecture.
They also share insights into projects like Villa Backyard, Casa Gana, and others which highlight their dedication to creating meaningful spaces that harmonize with both people and their environment.
Thai design is uniquely shaped by our climate, environment, and cultural identity, creating a character that stands out globally. Rooted in rich traditions, it integrates symbolic elements, natural materials, and meticulous craftsmanship. At the same time, it evolves with modern lifestyles to remain relevant and functional.
What makes Thai design truly distinct is how it reflects the way we live, influenced by our tropical climate and environmental context. Even within the same region, behaviors and needs differ, and Thai design adapts to these nuances, addressing everything from ventilation and natural light to spatial flow that complements our way of life.
“Beyond aesthetics, Thai design tells stories — whether through patterns inspired by folklore, forms echoing Buddhist philosophy, or materials connecting us to nature.”
Beyond aesthetics, Thai design tells stories — whether through patterns inspired by folklore, forms echoing Buddhist philosophy, or materials connecting us to nature.
It’s this harmony of tradition, innovation, and sensitivity to our surroundings that gives Thai design its soul and enduring appeal.
At TOUCH Architect, our philosophy revolves around addressing basic human needs while integrating cultural, environmental, and contextual considerations into our designs.
We believe that architecture should serve people first, creating spaces that are functional, comfortable, and meaningful.
Our approach begins with understanding the context; be it cultural, environmental, or social. For instance, Thailand’s climate and way of life shape how we design for natural ventilation, daylight, and spatial layouts that align with local behaviors.
At the same time, we honor cultural values and traditions, embedding them subtly into contemporary forms.
“Our approach begins with understanding the context; be it cultural, environmental, or social.”
Sustainability is a key pillar of this philosophy. For us, sustainable architecture goes beyond materials or energy efficiency; it’s about creating lasting, adaptable designs that respect the environment while improving quality of life.
This often involves experimenting with context-specific solutions, such as passive cooling strategies or locally sourced materials, that reflect our surroundings.
Finally, we strive for an aesthetic that balances beauty with purpose. By harmonizing innovation, cultural identity, and environmental responsibility, we aim to create spaces that resonate with people on both a practical and emotional level.
This philosophy is not just about building structures — it’s about enhancing lives and fostering a deeper connection between people and their architecture.
As mentioned above, social and environmental considerations are integral to our design process, forming the foundation for every decision we make. These aspects are thoughtfully balanced with the specific needs of our clients, ensuring designs that are both functional and sustainable.
For instance, in residential projects, we understand that homeowners prioritize low-maintenance living. This naturally leads us to select durable, long-lasting materials that not only meet the client’s needs but also align with environmental concerns by reducing waste and the need for frequent repairs.
“By creating spaces that can easily transform for new functions in the future, we minimize resource consumption and reduce the carbon footprint associated with demolition and new construction.”
In commercial projects, where buildings often have shorter lifespans or changing purposes, we design with adaptability in mind.
By creating spaces that can easily transform for new functions in the future, we minimize resource consumption and reduce the carbon footprint associated with demolition and new construction.
These seemingly small design decisions, like choosing durable materials or planning for flexibility, have a significant impact on the broader environment. They allow us to create architecture that respects natural resources while delivering long-term value for our clients and the community.
Traditional Thai design continues to have a profound influence on our work, regardless of shifting architectural trends like modern or minimal styles. While aesthetics and preferences may evolve, our climate and culture remain constants that shape how we design.
“While aesthetics and preferences may evolve, our climate and culture remain constants that shape how we design.”
For example, Thailand’s tropical climate, with heavy rainfall and intense heat, calls for practical solutions that traditional architecture mastered. High-pitched roofs, like the iconic gabled roof, effectively manage rainwater and provide natural ventilation.
While many clients now prefer simpler, more modern forms, we integrate these preferences with practical designs, such as two-layer roofs. These not only echo traditional aesthetics but also function as insulation and double protection against heat and rain, addressing both visual and environmental needs.
Culturally, Thailand’s identity as a predominantly Buddhist country and its rich multicultural influences deeply inform our designs. For instance, Chinese feng shui principles often guide spatial layouts, reflecting the beliefs and traditions of many Thai families. Similarly, the Thai way of life shapes functional aspects of design, such as the common inclusion of two kitchens in a single home, while a Western-style kitchen for light cooking and preparation, and an outdoor Thai kitchen for stronger-smelling, more intensive cooking.
These cultural and environmental considerations are not just design details; they’re fundamental to how we create spaces that resonate with the people who live in them.
Thai design in the digital age is evolving with the help of AI and emerging technologies, offering new ways to enhance sustainability, efficiency, and creativity. While AI helps us analyze data and optimize designs for specific climates and needs, it still cannot replace the cultural understanding that shapes Thai architecture.
Tools like generative design and virtual reality allow us to experiment with new forms and present designs in more immersive ways, bringing traditional Thai elements to a global audience. However, the core values of Thai design, respect for the environment, culture, and human needs, will always remain central.
“While AI helps us analyze data and optimize designs for specific climates and needs, it still cannot replace the cultural understanding that shapes Thai architecture.”
We also believe that AI cannot replace our profession, but it can assist us in working more efficiently. Technology allows design firms to operate on a smaller scale and with greater flexibility. This applies not only to architecture but also to other industries, where technology can significantly enhance productivity and streamline processes.
Our projects mainly focus on small-scale architecture, primarily residential with some small commercial work. The design approach for these two types of buildings differs significantly.
For residential projects, we design spaces tailored to specific groups, such as single families or couples. The focus is on comfort, simplicity, and functionality, with durable materials that ensure longevity. The design aims to create a timeless function through clean, straightforward forms that meet the practical needs of the residents.
In contrast, commercial architecture, like cafes or restaurants, serves a more diverse and public audience. These spaces must be attractive and engaging, designed to draw traffic since they are business-driven. While the overall aesthetic may be similar or vary, the function and layout will always differ, reflecting the unique needs of each commercial space.
“Our design philosophy doesn’t follow a fixed pattern. Rather than starting with a predefined image, we use a ‘bottom-up’ approach.”
Our design philosophy doesn’t follow a fixed pattern. Rather than starting with a predefined image, we use a ‘bottom-up’ approach. We begin by analyzing the context and purpose of the project, with a primary focus on function and space. Good architecture, in our view, must be functional, timeless, and sustainable. While aesthetics is important, they serve as an enhancement that elevates a building into architecture.
“Good architecture, in our view, must be functional, timeless, and sustainable. While aesthetics is important, they serve as an enhancement that elevates a building into architecture.”
Our recent projects such as Villa Backyard, where sustainability shapes the house’s form, Casa Gana, a home with timeless functionality, French Kitsch III, inspired by the perfect imperfection of croissant curves, and DAWN to DUSK, a restaurant serving cross-cultural comfort food from morning to evening, showcase our approach to balancing function, form, and identity in both residential and commercial architecture.
Something symbolic of Thai architecture a visitor to Thailand should see:
‘Sarn Phra Phum’ or ‘House of Guardian Spirit’ found in many homes and businesses. These small, ornate structures are placed in front of buildings to honor spirits and bring good fortune. We designed this once which is ‘Sukpisan SHRINE’.
A Thai designer or artist you’d love to collaborate with or that you have been inspired by:
We find inspiration not only in architecture but also in other forms of Thai art, such as the beautiful Buddha statues and the craftsmanship of the artisans who sculpt them. The serene and calming effect these works have on the mind is something deeply profound.
Their elegance and the spiritual essence they convey influence much of Thai architecture, where these statues are often integrated into buildings.
Meticulous attention to detail and reverence for the sacred are qualities that we admire and strive to reflect in our own work, making architecture a holistic experience that goes beyond just the physical form.
Your go-to source for creative inspiration in Bangkok:
In Bangkok, our go-to source for creative inspiration is the city’s rich blend of old and new. We often find ourselves drawn to the peacefulness of the ancient temples, where the intricate details and spiritual atmosphere spark a sense of calm and creativity.
On the other hand, we also find inspiration in the vibrant street life and modern architecture that continually pushes the boundaries of design.
The contrast between tradition and innovation in places like Chatuchak Market or the riverside offers endless possibilities for exploring new ideas while staying connected to the city’s deep cultural roots.
