A research project aims to effectively combine imagination, creativity, and academic knowledge to promote innovative breakthroughs and cutting-edge technologies. The connection between the research centre building and its natural environment is created through a carefully designed integrated landscape, where green spaces complement the architectural structure and spatial layout. Together, all elements foster a symbiotic relationship that balances various aspects of the project. This relationship includes practical functions and the harmony between the natural and built environments, achieving a balanced and unified coexistence of landscape and architecture. The inclusion of lush greenery, waterscapes, abundant natural light, and fresh air circulation seamlessly integrates with the architectural design. It creates a functional space at the core of the program with a clear purpose and heightened aesthetic appeal. The landscape fosters a variety of experiences and inspirations, serving as a catalyst for creativity among researchers and other building users as they continue their pursuit of knowledge within the research space.
The design team’s primary objective was to create a new environment that naturally complements the existing surroundings while ensuring the prevention of any adverse effects on the site. Through a comprehensive survey and meticulous analysis of the site, it was revealed that the project’s designated location was once a flourishing wetland ecosystem that had unfortunately been impacted by previous industrial land development activities. The team embarked on a project to address the land’s current condition, which presented a significant challenge that later shaped their objective to create a green space that would restore balance to both the lives of the people and the surrounding natural environment.
The project is in the area connecting the community and the industrial zone. It aims to create a new environment without adversely affecting the existing surroundings. Therefore, the Landscape architects emphasized collaboration with project architects to divide the project area (zoning) while considering the physical characteristics of the original waterlogged area to facilitate various functions within the project. For example, creating a buffer zone in the front, placing the main buildings close to the water for a pleasant atmosphere and away from the road to reduce noise disturbance, arranging various living spaces, and preparing areas for future expansion.
Moreover, the traffic on the main roads in front of the project causes disturbances (noise and dust) for the users, so preventing or reducing such disturbances was a major focus in designing the front area. Additionally, the designers focused on creating a pleasant and engaging atmosphere, making it easy to notice and memorable for users and passersby. This was achieved by using earth mounds and large groups of trees as buffers and noise protection in the front, while preserving existing trees and planting large new trees using reforestation methods to create a lush frontage.
The landscape architect also incorporated plans to restore areas impacted by industrial development to their previous waterlogged conditions, drawing on various knowledge to increase soil moisture, restore the environment, and enable sustainable water management. Rainwater storage ponds within the project were used to collect rainwater during the rainy season, including treated water for irrigation during the dry season. Some of the treated water could be recycled for reuse. Moreover, water was used as a connecting element to link different areas within the project, promoting balance in various dimensions of usage and the environment, creating harmony in the usage experience, inspiring researchers, and other users to generate innovative ideas for further research and development.
IRPC Innovation Center
Landscape Architect: Landscape Architects 49 Limited
Client: IRPC Public Company Limited
Collaborators/Other Consultants:
Architects 49 Limited
Architectural Engineering 49 Limited
PIA Interior Company Limited
Mitr Technical Consultant Co., Ltd.
Lab Space Co., Ltd.
JWS Construction Co., Ltd.
Photography: Courtesy of Landscape Architects 49 Limited