It is estimated that Thailand generates 2 million tons of plastic waste annually, yet only 21% is recycled, while the remaining 79% ends up in landfills or lingers in the environment.

This is where the idea for Mega Mat was born—a project that encourages people to make better use of plastic through reuse and recycling. Behind this giant mat is a collaboration between MVRDV Architects, the Creative Economy Agency (CEA), PTT Global Chemicals (PTTGC), and the Netherlands Embassy.

Mats have been a household staple in Thai culture for generations. For Bangkok Design Week 2025, this everyday item has been reimagined using recycled plastic and expanded to cover 860 square meters at Lan Khon Mueang in front of the Bangkok City Hall. Designed as an urban living room, it invites city dwellers to gather, rest, and engage with the space.

The mat’s patterns, shapes, and colors draw inspiration from the roof of Wat Suthat Thepwararam, located just across the street, and each piece is woven with traditional designs that reflect Thailand’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.

Many may wonder—what happens to the mat after the event? No need to worry. The entire mat will be dismantled and repurposed—recycled into bags and other products, given as souvenirs, and even donated to temples in need.

Beyond the giant Mega Mat, the surrounding area also features a showcase of innovative products made from unexpected alternative materials—like Coffee Chaff. Design brand MORE brings a unique lineup of creations, including lamps, tables, benches, vases, and coasters, all crafted from this sustainable material.

Come relax on Mega Mat and explore the creative works by MORE at Bangkok Design Week 2025 ‘Design Up+ Rising’ at Lan Khon Mueang, Phra Nakhon, from February 15-23, 2025.

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