Reform-oriented learning in architecture focuses on people, communities, and society. The Arsomsilp Community and Environmental Architect Professional Architecture Studio was established to support the “work-based learning” approach at the School of Architecture, Asomilp Academy of Arts. Over more than seven years of operation, the school has maintained the belief that the best way to closely connect academia with professional practice is by enriching the architectural learning ecosystem. This is achieved by fostering a community where students, teachers, and professional architects live and work together “under the same roof.”
The Rabindhorn Building was originally the sports arena of Roong Aroon School, which shares the same foundation as Arsomsilp College. After the school relocated its gymnasium to a larger facility, the Rabindhorn Building was handed over to Arsomsilp for adaptive reuse. The building was revitalized to serve as a new architectural studio, creating an educational environment that aligns with Arsomsilp’s goal of cultivating architects through holistic learning methods. The focus is on teamwork to solve real-world challenges and fostering a 21st-century learning mindset. To honor the building’s history, the original wooden truss from the sports hall has been preserved, emphasizing the “under one roof” learning concept.
The building’s main structure preserves the original gymnasium framework. Most added materials are renewable, including wooden roof tiles and interior wood components recycled from old houses and buildings to reduce carbon emissions. Local woodworking techniques and construction details were applied, some of which have been preserved as inspiration for staff, encouraging them to uphold the same level of craftsmanship in their work.
Both lighting and cooling systems incorporate passive design principles, harnessing natural energy to reduce operational costs. The lighting design channels direct sunlight through the roof ridge, aligning with the circadian rhythm to enhance visual comfort and manage heat gain. Cooling combines active air conditioning for enclosed office “glass boxes” with passive ventilation in open areas. Passive cooling is achieved through horizontal and vertical airflow, including roof ridge ventilation, providing 80% thermal comfort within approximately five hours. The microclimate benefits from air circulation around nearby ponds and parks, enhancing natural ventilation and cooling in the open spaces connecting the buildings. Water reuse strategies include collecting compressor drainage and drip irrigation to support plantings and provide lunch for employees.
The Rabindhorn Building is designed as a living, adaptable space shaped by the creativity of its users. Each architectural team’s workspace is housed within glass boxes arranged around a central open well and staircase, fostering vertical and horizontal interaction between communities. The spaces between these glass boxes serve as public areas for group learning and discussions. In the northeast wing, the wooden truss was elevated, creating additional room for the studio and a 100-person meeting space, enhancing the diversity of learning environments.
Because employees spend most of their time here daily, the Rabindhorn Building functions like a community home, offering areas for living, leisure, and exercise. The former music room on the first floor was removed to create a flexible space that serves as a multifunctional cafeteria, library, and studio. The new design connects seamlessly with adjacent buildings of the Asomilp Academy. A lawn staircase and café were added beside the southwest wing, providing a natural green pathway leading to the existing pool. The building’s main entrance links to the bamboo art gallery and organic market, guiding visitors warmly toward the main staircase and fostering a sense of community.
Project Drawings
△ General Layout Plan
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Third Floor Plan
△ Fourth Floor Plan
△ Fifth Floor Plan
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Section Diagram
△ Section Diagram
Project Information
Architect: Arsomsilp Community and Environmental Architect
Area: 3,780 m²
Project Year: 2019
Photographer: Pat Phuchamni
Lead Architect: Arsomsilp Community and Environmental Architect Co., Ltd
Location: Bang Khun Thian, Thailand
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