The “Architect'24 Expo”, held under the theme Collective Language: Sensing Architecture, emphasises borderless communication among architects and designers. This prestigious event is poised to present ASEAN's largest and most comprehensive range of design and construction products and services. Spanning an expansive 75,000 sqm, the expo will take place at the IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center in Muang Thong Thani from April 30 to May 5, 2024. Highlighting its international stature, the ASA International Forum is set to welcome world-renowned architects to share their experiences on the topic of "Critical Regionalism in Architecture." In this regard, Mr. Chutayaves Sinthuphan and Ms. Kulthida Songkittipakdee, co-chairs of the Architect'24 Expo, discussed the readiness and excitement surrounding the ASA International Forum 2024 event.
The Rationale of the ASA International Forum 2024
To ensure that the Architect '24 Expo is complete and comprehensive and to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Association of Siamese Architects under the Royal Patronage (ASA), whose mission is to integrate architecture in promoting positive movement in society and elevate the Thai architectural profession internationally, the ASA, as the expo's organiser, has organised a series of exhibitions and activities within its premises.
This includes the ASA International Forum 2024, a vital platform for architectural intellectual exchange. This forum features both renowned Thai and international architects who will explore and discuss architectural approaches through the lens of Critical Regionalism in Architecture. By drawing inspiration from global architectural concepts and creations by Thai and international architects, this forum promises to offer a broader and clearer perspective on architecture. The ASA International Forum will be held on May 4-5, 2024, at Jupiter Rooms 11-13, Challenger Hall, Impact Muang Thong Thani.
Reference : Suryawinata & Florian Heinzelmann
"From the 'Collective Language' theme, there was a discussion on how Collective Language could be integrated with the ASA International Forum to provide guidelines for speakers. We arrived at the concept of 'Critical Regionalism Architecture,' which can be translated into Thai as 'critiquing architecture within a specific region.' With this theme and topic in mind, we selected the works of each architect that exemplify the architecture in their respective regions. And this is the rationale behind inviting all six speakers from different regions, bringing together a geographically diverse group of speakers."
World-Renowned Architects Confirmed Participation
The ASA International Forum 2024 event has received confirmations from world-renowned architects to participate. This includes Antoine Chaaya, a key partner of Renzo Piano Building Workshop (RPBW); Ma Yansong, a renowned Chinese architect from MAD Architects; Marina Tabassum, a Bangladeshi architect who won Aga Khan Award; Daliana Suryawinata and Florian Heinzelmann, two architects who co-founded SHAU from Indonesia; Assoc. Prof. Erik L'Heureux, dean at the National University of Singapore (NUS), and Prof. Tonkao Panin, a professor at Silpakorn University and a Thai architect who founded Research Studio Panin.
“The speakers have diverse and unique expertise. A prime example is Assoc. Prof. Erik L'Heureux, an American architect who has relocated to Singapore and now thrives as a university professor. He is a professor, writer, and architect, and he integrates his design work with research in construction technology and computer-aided design. He brings a fresh perspective to building design through his innovative use of technology.
Reference : Erik L'Heureux
Marina Tabassum, a Bangladeshi architect and Harvard professor, is an Aga Khan Award winner known for her contemporary vernacular architecture that addresses social, environmental, and contextual considerations, including religion.
While the other speakers have never visited Thailand, the forum also features a renowned Thai architect, Assoc. Prof. Tonkao Panin, who won the Silpathorn Award in 2021 and teaches at Silpakorn University. She also owns a design firm called Research Studio Panin.
Reference : Marina Tabassum
Among the speakers, Ma Yansong, a Chinese architect further educated in the US, might particularly appeal to emerging architects. His work bridges the gap between cultural heritage and innovative design, reflecting China's transformation. An office building in Beijing exemplifies this. It showcases a harmonious blend of cutting-edge futuristic design seamlessly integrated with strong elements of traditional Chinese design.
All six speakers are incredibly interesting. Their experiences range from being master architects to professors actively practicing architecture. Each speaker is worth following and attending every section they participate in.”
Expectations of the ASA International Forum 2024
This event is designed to benefit Thai architects. We also welcome international participants, as this is a regional event, so we definitely expect guests from neighbouring countries to join us. Most will likely be from ASEAN countries, China, and some from Japan as well. Ideally, we'd also like to have student attendees.
The significant aspect of this forum is that it's international. You come to one place and get to meet world-class architects, hear and learn from their experiences. It’s worth the travel expense because it’s a rare opportunity for such a gathering of six firms in one place.
Reference : ANTOINE CHAAYA
As for the expected proportion of attendees, the focus is on Thai architects or foreign architects based in Thailand. We also hope to see architects from Southeast Asian countries such as Laos, Vietnam and Malaysia who can fly in to attend the two-day event. This forum won't be online – we really want people to come on-site and meet each other for networking and interaction.
Registration is now open. We have around 300 seats available for each section, and the response has been positive, with reservations almost full. Even though the talks are in English, we provide translation headsets for everyone's convenience.
Reference : Erik L'Heureux
The ASA International Forum 2024 is a remarkable opportunity for architects, designers, and architecture students, as well as enthusiasts eager to engage with world-renowned architects. These architects will be sharing
insights and experiences from their international practice, offering invaluable perspectives on concept design and architecture. Their exceptional and inspiring works promise to captivate and intrigue. We are confident that each session will be well-received. For those interested, further details and free registration are available at https://www.asaexpo.org/forum2024."