One9Five | Bangkok, Thailand | Shma

Despite the very high air pollution levels and densely populated Bangkok. Sometimes, we all think of relocating to the countryside, where the atmosphere is more relaxing and refreshing, perhaps to live in the forested mountains. However, this might be difficult to realize. Therefore, we came up with the idea of designing the landscape architecture of ONE9five to mimic the natural environment by creating a sustainable living space for modern urban residents. This includes using renewable energy such as solar panels, increasing green spaces to enhance oxygen levels, collecting rainwater for irrigation, and even growing vegetables and fruits within the project, eliminating the need to source them from outside. Furthermore, the design fosters community and mutual support among residents. The design area is divided into two parts: the garden area on the ground floor and the communal area on the eighth floor. The concept incorporates elements of forests and mountains into the landscape architecture. The ground floor is envisioned as a montane forest at the mountain’s base, featuring flowing water and a shady atmosphere. The upper area simulates the forested mountains and lush and moist mountain peaks.

1st Floor : Wanderlust Forest

From the entrance, all residents are welcomed with a small pond, burbling like the real watershed forest. Approaching Building A, the in-front cascade connects waterways back to the end of the site, resembling a gentle stream in the deep rainforest. This creek can essentially retain vast amounts of rainwater during flash floods that constantly become more intense every year. Its system is also wisely designed to be sustainable, allowing water to be collected and reused for plant watering on the site. 

To the side is the tall residential building with commercial units – shops and restaurants, on the 1st floor. All of them are designed in a relaxing mood, perfect for chilling moments, along with the capability to hold multipurpose activities. The descending stepping spaces of each shop unit help separate the usage and keep users’ privacy. There is also a common area under shadings of greenery, where residents can enjoy their leisure time while listening to water gently dripping and birds melodiously tweeting.

At the rear back is a 1,600 sq.m. green area, namely “Fruit Forest,” which is a special urban farm area. The overall space is designed on a slight slope, dividing programs on different floor levels. The highest floor on the north is mixed up with arrays of planters for edible species, and a communal kitchen on the edge. Here, residents can learn about gardening, cultivate various fruits and vegetables, and cook them with neighbors in a co-kitchen workshop. Approaching the south lowest floor, the playground, made with sandbox and EPDM surface can give a special moment for children and family with safety. Jogging tracks are also provided around the border, covering 150 meters per round, to ensure physical health.

8th Floor : Sky Hill

The design concept for the communal area on the 8th floor is inspired by a mountain peak. The landscape at the summit is rich and diverse of plant species and serves as the source of rivers. It is also the highest point in the forest. The 8th floor features a 100-meter-long swimming pool, tiered seating by the pool, and a mountain peak area elevated 3 meters above the walkway. The view from this height extends far across the cityscape.

The swimming pool is divided into three sections. The first section is a shallow children’s pool, separated by fountains for safety, providing a space for parents to supervise their children. This area includes various play equipment to accommodate a significant number of children. The second section is the central pool, with a depth of 90 cm, suitable for short-distance swimming. It also includes Jacuzzis, hot and cold water baths, and foot massage areas. The swimming area is approximately 20-25 meters long, catering to those who prefer not to swim in deep water. The final section is the deep pool or LAP POOL, measuring 50 meters in length and 8 meters in width, designed for long-distance swimming.

The seating by the pool is gradually elevated to ensure open views for everyone. The central walkway leads to the highest point of the mountain, featuring pavilions at various points where residents can relax when they prefer not to stay in their rooms.

One9Five

Landscape Architect: Shma Company Limited

Design Director: Prapan napawongdee

Landscape Architect: Worawe Jamsomboon, Saran Maiprasert, Pawida Bualert, Prueksachol
Chutchawanchaiphan, Thanakrit Kittianukul, and Supanuch Krairavee
Construction Manager: Thitiwat Chintanavitch
Horticulturist: La-ongdao Intana

Client: TC Development

Collaborators/Other Consultants:
Architect: L65
M&E: Envi One
C&S Engineering: K.C.S.

Photography Credit:  Metipat Prommomate

One9Five was shortlisted in the 2024 WLA Awards

About Damian Holmes 3538 Articles
Damian Holmes is the Founder and Editor of World Landscape Architecture (WLA). He is a registered landscape architect (AILA) working in international design practice in Australia. Damian founded WLA in 2007 to provide a website for landscape architects written by landscape architects. Connect on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/damianholmes/