Sponsor Highlight #1 AP
Creating green spaces in cities is already challenging, but AP Thai’s ‘Bird Journey’ project goes even further by promoting biodiversity. A simple way to measure success? The return of migratory birds that once disappeared from Bangkok’s skies.No need to bring binoculars to Bangkok Design Week (BKKDW) just yet—it will take time for ‘Bird Journey’ to grow. But at this year’s event, an exhibition will introduce the three key factors that make urban microforests possible.Visitors can explore these ideas through fun activities like the ‘Layered Stamp Rally,’ where you collect stamps representing different forest layers, or ‘Yom Pa Gashapon,’ which features bird model capsules and a mini migration map showing project locations already in progress.Come learn about ‘Bird Journey’ and help bring birds back to Bangkok’s skyline at Bangkok Design Week 2025: ‘Design Up+ Rising.’ Join us at the Front Square, Grand Postal Building, from February 8–16, 2025.Find out more here: https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program/124900#BKKDW2025#BangkokDesignWeek#DesignUpRising#ออกแบบพร้อมบวก
Influencer Pick #5 สาย Design
In today’s world, design and lifestyle are deeply connected. Design goes beyond aesthetics and functionality—it reflects modern living and adapts to all aspects of life.“For me, design is inherently tied to lifestyle. As long as humans strive for improvement, whether individually or collectively, design remains relevant,” shares Ajarn Tik – Santi Lawrachawee.Looking back at past exhibitions, projects, and his role as a co-founder of PS±D (Practical School of Design), it’s clear that Ajarn Tik’s approach has always been about fostering a deeper understanding of design thinking—a process that can be applied across disciplines and everyday life. This year, Bangkok Design Week 2025 continues this vision, with Ajarn Tik himself contributing as one of the participating artists.As we approach the festival’s grand opening, join us for an exclusive conversation with Ajarn Tik on the state of Thai design today and explore human-centered design through specially curated programs that reflect how design shapes the way we live.📌 8 – 16 Feb: Charoenkrung – Talat Noi, Yaowarat – Song Wat, Pak Khlong Talat, and other areas📌 15 – 23 Feb: Phra Nakhon, Bang Lamphu – Khao San, and other areas📌 Weekends only (8 – 9, 15 – 16, 22 – 23 Feb): Hua Lamphong, Bang Pho, and other areas#BKKDW2025#BangkokDesignWeek#DesignUpRising#ออกแบบพร้อมบวกIn today’s world, where life moves fast and technology dominates our routines, many of us lose touch with our surroundings and traditional ways of living. This can lead to stress and disconnection in both body and mind. That’s why ‘Look Up’ was created—a collaboration between Fast Space Design and PS±D (Practical School of Design). “Look Up is a program designed to help us step away from distractions, mainly our phones, especially in today’s fast-paced, post-COVID world. With changing behaviors and constant demands, the program offers activities and design processes that encourage participants to rethink and redesign their daily lives for better control and balance.”“This program is a collaboration with Fast Space Design by Ryosuke Ebisawa, who will share insights on managing daily life and workspaces in today’s context. I will focus on Graphic Design and Communication Design, which also play a key role in modern lifestyles and work.”Ajarn Tik believes that good design isn’t just about beauty and function—it must also fit into people’s changing lives. As Bangkok grows busier and faster, design should help people adapt and take control of their own lifestyles.📍LOOK UPFast Space Design + PS±D Practical school of designCharoenkrung – Talat NoiTCDC Bangkok15 February 2025More information : https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program/106827Every year, Bangkok Design Week showcases designs that connect past and present, reflecting the unique identity of local communities. This is why the festival always features a variety of programs exploring different aspects of design.One of them is “Sip Coffee & Listen to Stories: Tracing Letters from Writing to Print”, a talk about the journey of Thai typography and print culture—from handwritten scripts to machine-printed text. This session highlights how the festival values design history and its evolution.“The Craftsman Roastery program is a great chance to hear fascinating stories about Thai typography—how it has changed over time and connects to today—all while enjoying a good cup of coffee in a space that enhances the experience.”The talk will feature Anek Navikkamul, sharing insights on the historical transition of Thai script and its influence on Thai society and culture, alongside Ajarn Tik. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how Thai typography has evolved and its broader cultural impact.📍Coffee Talk : Typo Story, from Writing to PrintingCraftsman RoasteryPhra NakhonCraftsman Roastery at Old Town16 February 2025More information : https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program/123930“I find it fascinating that the association has brought this program back. Since its founding in 2009, the definition of graphic design has expanded significantly in many dimensions.”Ajarn Tik introduces We Are Thai Graphic Designers, a continuation of ‘I Am a Thai Graphic Designer’, first launched by PRACTICAL Design Studio in 2009. The project invited Thai graphic designers to showcase their identity and role in the industry, strengthening professional networks and fostering collaboration.This program not only highlights individual perspectives but also explores how Thai graphic design has evolved over time and where it’s headed in the future. Bangkok Design Week 2025 will showcase these changes, offering insights into the growing influence of graphic design today.📍We are Thai Graphic DesignersThaiGaCharoenkrung – Talat NoiWorld Travel Service (Panyarachun)08 – 16 February 2025More information : https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program/109616#BKKDW2025#BangkokDesignWeek#DesignUpRising#ออกแบบพร้อมบวก
Visitor Guide
Visitor Guide: Your Essential Companion to Bangkok Design Week 2025Bangkok Design Week 2025, under the theme ‘Design Up+ Rising’, is almost here! Not sure where to start? Grab our Visitor Guide and explore 7 creative districts packed with design, creativity, and inspiration.📌 8 – 16 Feb: Charoenkrung – Talat Noi, Yaowarat – Song Wat, Pak Khlong Talat, and other areas📌 15 – 23 Feb: Phra Nakhon, Bang Lamphu – Khaosan, and other areas📌 Weekends only (8 – 9, 15 – 16, 22 – 23 Feb): Hua Lamphong, Bang Pho, and other areas#BKKDW2025#BangkokDesignWeek#DesignUpRising#ออกแบบพร้อมบวก2 Phases, Double the Experience!Bangkok Design Week 2025 is rolling out in 2 phases, ensuring everyone gets to explore all the creative works and programs across the city. From February 8-23, the festival will unfold in different districts, making it easier to dive deep into design without missing a thing. Here’s how we’ve organized the phases:📌 8 – 16 Feb: Charoenkrung – Talat Noi, Yaowarat – Song Wat, Pak Khlong Talat, and other areas📌 15 – 23 Feb: Phra Nakhon, Bang Lamphu – Khaosan, and other areas📌 Weekends only (8 – 9, 15 – 16, 22 – 23 Feb): Hua Lamphong, Bang Pho, and other areasThis year, Bangkok Design Week 2025 spans 7+ creative districts, each packed with unique design showcases, events, and programs that highlight the distinct character of its area.Not sure where to start or what each district has in store? We’ve got you covered! Check out the links in this post and plan your Design Up+ adventure before the festival kicks off on February 8!📌เจริญกรุง – ตลาดน้อย (Charoenkrung – Talat Noi)https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program?nbh=280ติดตามเรื่องราวของย่านเจริญกรุง – ตลาดน้อย ได้ที่:Follow the story of Charoenkrung-Talat Noi District hereCharoenkrung Creative Districtwww.facebook.com/CharoenkrungCDTalatnoi Community – วิสาหกิจชุมชนการท่องเที่ยวย่านตลาดน้อย www.facebook.com/taladnoijourneyตะลักเกี้ยะ Friendly Market www.facebook.com/talakkia.friendlymarketสำนักงานเขตบางรัก BangRak District Office www.facebook.com/BangkokBangRak📌เยาวราช – ทรงวาด (Yaowarat – Song Wat)https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program?nbh=49827ติดตามเรื่องราวของย่านเยาวราช – ทรงวาด ได้ที่:Follow the story of Yaowarat – Song Wat District hereMade in Song Wat www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086192092116Trawell Thailandhttps://www.facebook.com/TrawellthailandSTRN Citizen Labhttps://www.facebook.com/share/1Q8itPoAMT/?mibextid=wwXIfr 📌ปากคลองตลาด (Pak Khlong Talat)https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program?nbh=50632ติดตามเรื่องราวของย่านปากคลองตลาด ได้ที่:Follow the story of Pak Khlong Talat District hereHumans of Flower Market : มนุษย์ปากคลองฯhttps://www.facebook.com/manuspakkhlong📌พระนคร (Phra Nakhon)https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program?nbh=49828ติดตามเรื่องราวของย่านพระนคร ได้ที่Follow the story of Phra Nakhon District hereUrban Allyhttps://www.facebook.com/UrbanAlly.SU📌บางลำพู – ข้าวสาร (Bang Lamphu – Khao San)https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program?nbh=106531ติดตามเรื่องราวของย่านบางลำพู – ข้าวสาร ได้ที่:Follow the story of Bang Lamphu – Khao San District hereเสน่ห์บางลำพู https://www.facebook.com/sanaebanglamphu📌หัวลำโพง (Hua Lamphong)https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program?nbh=49826ติดตามเรื่องราวของย่านหัวลำโพง ได้ที่:Follow the story of Hua Lamphong District hereRTUS-Bangkok ริทัศน์บางกอก https://www.facebook.com/rtusbangkok📌บางโพ (Bang Pho)https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program?nbh=49831ติดตามเรื่องราวของย่านบางโพ ได้ที่:Follow the story of Bang Pho District hereBangphowoodstreethttps://www.facebook.com/bangphowoodstreet.thพื้นที่อื่น ๆ (Others)https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/guide/venues-bkkdw?nbh=284 Easily find the perfect program with the Bangkok Design Week website filters!Bangkok Design Week 2025 is bringing over 350+ exciting programs across 7 key districts and beyond. From exhibitions, talks, design markets, music & performances, tours, events, promotions, and workshops, there’s something for everyone!Explore the full program here: https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/programWith easy-to-use filters, you can search by:– Date & time (only from February 8-23, 2025)– Activity type– Location across the 7 main districts & other areas in BangkokOnce you find a program you like, click for full details! And to plan your festival route hassle-free, check out the Plan Your Visit feature—it helps map out your schedule and navigation for Bangkok Design Week 2025 effortlessly. Save Your Favorite Bangkok Design Week 2025 ProgramsWith the My Plan Feature!Step 1: Visit https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/programBrowse programs by date, category, location, or search by keywords.Step 2: Found something you love? Tap ❤︎ to add it to My Plan.Step 3: Click the ❤︎ icon (top right) to view your saved programs, check locations, and even open directions in Google Maps.Easy-to-use interactive map – No downloads, no getting lost!With the Happining.city – Go to https://happinning.city/bkkdw/2025 and select the district you want to explore on the map. Icons will indicate different event types, and you can click to view images and details for each program.– Use the filter on the top right to search for specific events by type, date, highlights, ongoing activities, or popular programs.– You can also check out reactions, feedback, notifications, and visitor experiences for each location and program. Plus, share your own experiences and pin live activities happening in real time.Travel seamlessly by BTS, MRT, and city boatsMake your journey to Bangkok Design Week 2025 smooth and hassle-free! Just save this guide, and you’ll have all the best routes to explore each district at your fingertips. Whether by BTS, MRT, or city boat, getting around the festival has never been easier. รายละเอียดการเดินทางอื่น ๆ ดูเพิ่มเติมได้ในเว็บไซต์📌การเดินทางย่านเจริญกรุง – ตลาดน้อย (อาคารไปรษณีย์กลาง)Charoenkrung – Talat Noi (Bangkok Grand Postal Building)https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en/bkkdw2025/guide/venues?nbh=280📌การเดินทางย่านเยาวราช – ทรงวาดYaowarat – Song Wathttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en/bkkdw2025/guide/venues?nbh=49827📌การเดินทางย่านปากคลองตลาดPak Khlong Talathttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en/bkkdw2025/guide/venues?nbh=50632📌การเดินทางย่านพระนคร (มหาวิทยาลัยศิลปากร, ลานคนเมือง, ประปาแม้นศรี)Phra Nakhon (Silpakorn University, Lan Khon Mueang, The Maen Si Metropolitan Waterworks Authority Office)https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en/bkkdw2025/guide/venues?nbh=49828📌การเดินทางย่านบางลำพู – ข้าวสารBang Lamphu – Khao Sanhttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en/bkkdw2025/guide/venues?nbh=106531📌การเดินทางย่านหัวลำโพงHua Lamphonghttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en/bkkdw2025/guide/venues?nbh=49826📌การเดินทางย่านบางโพ Bang Phohttps://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en/bkkdw2025/guide/venues?nbh=49831Apart from BTS, MRT, and boat services, this year Bangkok Design Week also offers other transportation options across all creative districts in Bangkok. These include public buses, Muvmi electric tuk-tuks, and the Go Go Bus, a district-level transport service. These options provide more ways for visitors to explore and participate in the festival.A free shuttle bus service is also available to facilitate travel between MMAD Srinakarin and TCDC Bangkok. The service operates only on Saturdays and Sundays, specifically on February 8-9, 15-16, and 22-23, from 1:10 PM to 8:00 PM.📌 Stop 1: MMAD SrinakarinShuttle departures: 13:10 / 14:40 / 15:50 / 17:20 / 18:30 / 20:00📌 Stop 2: Hua LamphongShuttle departures: 13:45 / 15:15 / 16:25 / 17:55 / 18:45📌 Stop 3: Song Wat RoadShuttle departures: 14:00 / 15:30 / 16:40 / 18:10 / 19:00📌 Stop 4: TCDC BangkokShuttle departures: 13:35 / 14:45 / 16:15 / 17:25 / 18:55 / 19:45Exclusive Promotions for MuvMi & Anywheel Users!– MuvMi users: Use code BKKDW25 to get 20% off per trip when traveling to Hop Points in Rattanakosin, Wongwian Yai, and Bang Sue from February 8-23, 2025.– Anywheel users: Get discount coupons and codes at the festival Info Center and on the Anywheel app (limited availability).Charoenkrung – Talat Noi MapYaowarat – Song Wat MapPak Khlong Talat MapPhra Nakhon MapBang Lamphu – Khao San MapHua Lamphong MapBang Pho MapOther Creative DistrictsThis year, Bangkok Design Week 2025 invites everyone to experience design in a meaningful and positive way. Here’s how we can explore the festival while respecting our surroundings and community.🙏Respect diverse culturesOur city is rich in cultures, ethnicities, and religions. Understanding different ways of life is important. If visiting religious sites, please dress appropriately to show respect.🚌Use public transport to reduce pollutionSome venues may be difficult to access by car, but they are worth the visit. Public transport is a great alternative that helps reduce traffic congestion and pollution.🚶Stay on designated paths and respect private spacesMany venues are located within residential communities. Please respect the privacy of local residents, avoid blocking entrances, and be mindful of personal spaces.🗣️Keep noise levels downAs some venues are in residential areas, please be mindful of noise levels to avoid disturbing the community.🤳Avoid taking photos or videos of people without consentWith PDPA laws in place, always ask for permission before capturing someone’s face in photos or videos.🚦Do not obstruct trafficSince many programs take place in public spaces, be mindful of pedestrian pathways and roads to ensure safety for yourself and others.🏡Do not photograph private homes without permissionJust as you should avoid capturing people’s faces without consent, respect private residences by not taking photos or videos inside without permission.🗑️Dispose of waste properlyA little effort goes a long way in keeping the city clean. Carry a reusable bottle, bring your own food container, and refuse plastic bags. Always dispose of waste in designated areas.🏘️Support local businessesThis is a great chance to explore and support small businesses within creative districts. Whether it’s food, crafts, or unique local finds, every purchase helps sustain the community’s economy.🐶Some venues are pet-friendlyThis year’s festival welcomes pets in certain areas. However, some venues have restrictions, so please follow the rules of each location.During Bangkok Design Week 2025, there may be recording of images and videos throughout the festival, including the collection of registration data which may include your personal information. The collection, processing, and disclosure of personal data are for various purposes as specified below. If you have any questions about the data collection, use, or disclosure of your personal information, the duration for which the office will retain your personal data, the methods of storage and security standards for your personal data, or about your rights regarding personal data, including the right to withdraw consent, you can refer to the Privacy Policy or email the personal data protection officer: dpo@cea.or.thFurthermore, the office and the event organizing team will use still images and videos for the promotion of the festival, and your personal information for coordination in participating in Bangkok Design Week only. If you have further questions, you may inquire at hello.bkkdw@cea.or.th.Read more about the Privacy Policy: www.cea.or.th/th/privacy-policy#BKKDW2025#BangkokDesignWeek#DesignUpRising#ออกแบบพร้อมบวก
Influencer Pick #3 สาย education
Many might wonder how education and design are truly connected. Yet, when we look closely, design is embedded in everything related to learning—from classrooms and textbooks to learning spaces.“Science and art are inseparable. A well-designed presentation makes information easier to understand and enhances its impact,” explains Ajarn Ton – Dr. Jirasin Koonthongkaew, a Microbiology lecturer from the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University. He emphasizes that design and education cannot be separated and should be integrated for greater benefit rather than dismissed.Similarly, Bangkok Design Week highlights how design can play a vital role in education—not only in arts and general design but also in creating value for local products and improving livelihoods.We invited Ajarn Ton, with his extensive experience in researching local products, to share positive+ programs from his perspective as an educator. His insights aim to inspire those interested in how design can enhance education while adding value to local products and communities.#BKKDW2025#BangkokDesignWeek#DesignUpRising#ออกแบบพร้อมบวก“Sometimes staying in a classroom for too long gets boring. It makes you want to step out, breathe fresh air, or explore new spaces—just like kids today who enjoy visiting beautifully designed cafés or trying different activities. I think they’d enjoy this as a refreshing break from the usual routine.”This is why Ajarn Ton chose to highlight the ‘Music Makes Senses’ program. Combining music performances and exhibitions, it uses music as the core to create new experiences that blend local wisdom from Bang Yi Khan with cultural diversity in a contemporary, global context. It’s also a platform for artists from different disciplines to collaborate.“After exploring and enjoying Bangkok Design Week, take some time to relax with the ‘Music with Flavor’ program.”📍Music Makes SensesPGVIMPrincess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Music08-09 / 15-16 / 22-23 February 2025“As we all know, Thailand is an agricultural country with abundant produce. However, much of what sells is the top-grade selection, leaving lower-grade produce undervalued and underpriced. For instance, programs like mek Oort show how using low-grade fruits to create beverages can significantly boost their value.”The first program Ajarn Ton recommends focuses on local products, particularly using low-grade fruits to create value-added items like mek Oort. This aligns with his research interests in microbiology and enhancing the value of local products, especially beverages.“When the value increases, farmers can sell at higher prices, ultimately improving their quality of life. Additionally, it ties into sustainability—rather than discarding raw materials, we can process them into products with higher market value. This approach is ideal for educators or students interested in transforming local products or designing packaging that elevates these items further.”📍mek OortCharoenkrung – Talat NoiFront Square, Grand Postal Building, Charoenkrung Road13-16 February 2025More Information : https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/en/bkkdw2025/program/109749The program Froot focuses on kombucha, blending fruity sour, sweet, and smooth flavors. Beyond adding value to fruits, it highlights the role of design in enhancing the product’s appeal, making it more desirable and easier to understand.In addition to using microbiology to elevate local products, Ajarn Ton also emphasizes the importance of packaging design.“For example, local Thai brands often lacked attractive packaging in the past. But with better design, these products become more appealing, even to people who might not have been interested before. It makes them want to try and explore the products.”From an academic view, Ajarn Ton sees this program as a great research topic, aligning with Thailand’s sustainability goals (SDGs) and the BCG (Bio-Circular-Green) economy model. Thailand has plenty of agricultural by-products and lower-grade materials that could be improved through innovation and research.“For students, it’s a great learning opportunity. Many science students today dream of starting businesses back home. This program could teach them how to start and show how science can combine with art and design to create something meaningful.”📍FrootCharoenkrung – Talat NoiFront Square, Grand Postal Building, Charoenkrung Road13-16 February 2025More Information : https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program/105108#BKKDW2025#BangkokDesignWeek#DesignUpRising#ออกแบบพร้อมบวก
Influencer Pick #2 สาย art
Learn and Understand Everyday Art with Bangkok Design Week 2025 Highlights by Mook Porntip Attakanwong.If you’ve explored the creative districts like Charoenkrung, you’ve likely come across ATT19, a gallery and art space led by Mook-Ponthip Attakanwong. Dedicated to making art appreciation a fundamental part of Thai culture, Mook envisions art, fashion, and daily life as interconnected..Bangkok Design Week also emphasizes all dimensions of design and art each year, appealing to creators, design enthusiasts, and art lovers alike. Over the years, ATT19 has consistently been part of the festival’s program lineup.As a longstanding figure in the art and design community, Mook has shared her recommended program for Bangkok Design Week 2025. Her pick isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about inspiring and uplifting art lovers.8 – 16 Feb: Charoenkrung – Talat Noi, Yaowarat – Song Wat, Pak Khlong Talat, and other areas15 – 23 Feb: Phra Nakhon, Bang Lamphu – Khao San, and other areasWeekends only (8 – 9, 15 – 16, 22 – 23 Feb): Hua Lamphong, Bang Pho, and other areas#BKKDW2025#BangkokDesignWeek#DesignUpRising#ออกแบบพร้อมบวก“The program I chose is called Typospective. It continues from previous years, where the first phase turned Thailand’s 44 letters into artworks, and the second phase used histograms to create products. This year, the program evolves into the Typospective exhibition, combining typography and perspective.”Organized by Phayanchana, the program aims to develop Thai letters into tangible, functional items for daily use. Inspired by the difficulty of memorizing all 44 letters, the exhibition reimagines Thai typography with subtle cultural elements embedded into its designs.Mook shared why she recommends this program: “It addresses the lack of font designers in Thailand, especially for Thai typography. While English fonts often resonate with people, Thai fonts are often overlooked. Phayanchana is pushing this forward, highlighting the importance of fonts in design and how they convey emotion. Fonts are crucial for exhibition design and storytelling, yet many underestimate their value.”Beyond serving art and design professionals, Typospective opens conversations for all audiences, helping bridge understanding of art between generations or newcomers. It shows how art and design are no longer separate from everyday life.“This exhibition is perfect for all ages, from children with their parents to adults new to this type of art. By exploring its deeper layers, people can better appreciate this form of design.”📍TYPOSPECTIVEPHAYANCHANACharoenkrung – Talat NoiTCDC Bangkok8 – 16 Feb 2025More information : https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program/105476In addition to the exciting programs recommended by Mook, ATT19 is a key participant in this year’s Bangkok Design Week. This time, the gallery presents not only new artistic expressions but also a special collaboration with a Japanese artist.“Lines Across Paper: Transcending Borders is an exhibition by ATT19 in partnership with Awagami Factory, a traditional Japanese paper mill, and Craig Anczelowitz, who serves as the factory’s International Director and is part of the family,” explains Khun Muk.The exhibition highlights Craig Anczelowitz’s works on Awagami Washi, combining art and design through a unique perspective shaped by his experiences in New York, Thailand, and Japan. It explores the blending of cultural narratives and modern craftsmanship.“During the festival, we also have special programs include a Talk Series by the brand’s artists and four workshops led by Mieko Fujimori, a master indigo dyer from Awagami Factory. She is recognized as a National Treasure of Japan, similar to a National Artist.”📍Lines Across Paper: Transcending BordersATT19Charoenkrung – Talat NoiATT 1908 – 23 February 2025More information : https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program/125055Dialogues of Forms is an exhibition by KITT.TA.KHON, reimagining the ceramics of Suchai Craft with inspiration from Western decorative items like chandeliers, candelabras, and tulip vases. These elegant designs, which reflect European history and culture, are blended with Thai aesthetics to create modern homeware using innovative materials.“This program stands out by offering products for purchase, not just an exhibition. It’s a fresh idea that lets visitors take home practical designs.“This collaboration with Suchai Craft stands out for its focus on creating products that are available right away, which is something new for us. The program also includes a talk on Thai rice wine (sato) culture, which adds an interesting cultural angle.”📍Dialogues of formsKITT.TA.KHONCharoenkrung – Talat NoiKitt.ta.khon08 – 09 / 11 – 16 February 2025More information : https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program/125055#BKKDW2025#BangkokDesignWeek#DesignUpRising#ออกแบบพร้อมบวก
Exploring Global Trends to Cope with Chaos
Exploring Global Trends to Cope with ChaosThe world has barely recovered from COVID-19 when new challenges have emerged: political instability, wars, economic uncertainty, and environmental crises. It’s a multifaceted crisis, forcing people to seek balance between anxiety and optimism to navigate these challenges. Let’s examine the trends that have emerged in the past 1-2 years in response to the chaos of our current era.Seeking New Definitions to Understand an Incomprehensible World From VUCA to BANIFor decades, the world has been familiar with VUCA, an acronym describing a Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous world. Coined by American economists and initially used by the U.S. military to define Cold War situations, it later spread to other sectors, especially after 9/11, with many global organizations adopting it as a framework to prepare for change.In the post-COVID-19 era, as the world became turbulent in all dimensions, a new acronym emerged: BANI, standing for Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, and Incomprehensible. Introduced by an American anthropologist and futurist to complement VUCA, BANI doesn’t just describe world situations but also our perceptions towards them, reminding us to be vigilant in assessing crises and preparing for future challenges.PolyCrisis: Multifaceted CrisesAnother buzzword in the past 1-2 years is “Polycrisis,” referring to multiple, interconnected crises. Highlighted in the World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Reports, it indicates that the world is facing several major crises simultaneously. For Thailand, the report identifies risks such as economic downturn, air, water, and soil pollution, labor shortages, household debt, inequality, and extreme weather conditions.Gen AI as a LifelineAmid global uncertainty, Generative AI has emerged as a lifeline to help cope with challenges that exceed human capacity and control. Over the past 2-3 years, we’ve seen AI play a role in various dimensions, from automation to creating all forms of content – images, audio, video – extracting deep insights, and even acting as human proxies and enhancing human capabilities. It has reached a level where it can help revisit the past, make decisions in the present, and predict the future. This has sparked numerous debates about the utilization of AI.Research by Ipsos indicates that people worldwide remain both excited and concerned about AI, with diverse opinions on various issues. These include whether AI will assist or replace human jobs, whether AI will generate misinformation and disinformation, the reliability of AI, and whether AI will enhance or devalue artists’ creativity.However, whether AI becomes a friend or foe, whether it helps solve problems or enhances human capabilities, ultimately depends on how humans choose to use it.Skill Building as a Survival StrategyAs AI remains a topic of debate, humans must simultaneously enhance their own skills. In this era, we frequently hear terms like Upskill, Reskill, Newskill, and Future skills, along with Green Skills (knowledge and awareness about environment and sustainability). Crucially, Cross-skills or interdisciplinary integration is vital, as expertise in a single area is no longer sufficient for survival in this age.It’s not just teenagers and adults who need to accumulate skills. Children are also beginning to cultivate diverse learning skills and understand their interconnections. For instance, STEM education, integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, is becoming widespread in many schools. This aims to instill essential skills for navigating an increasingly complex future world.Tragic Optimism: A Rational Way to Heal the Mind While there was previously a trend of Toxic Positivity – forbidding oneself from negative thoughts to the point of unrealistic optimism – research over the past year has found that what helps people become resilient and manage stress amid severe problems is Tragic Optimism. This involves positive thinking while accepting reality, acknowledging problems and negative emotions, then rising to face them.Additionally, #HopeCore, a new trend on TikTok in the past 1-2 years, focuses on positive videos, often editing scenes from movies and adding healing messages to inspire hope and draw people away from surrounding negativity. In many countries, these #Hopecore contents have been found to help people overcome depression.Consequently, surveys in various countries by Ipsos Global Advisor Predictions 2024 show that in the past 1-2 years, people tend to have a more optimistic outlook. Despite concerns about uncertain circumstances, they maintain hope, especially for their own lives. They seek products and services that heal the mind and encourage positive thinking. Moreover, they expect companies and brands to contribute to making the world more livable, promoting health and well-being, and presenting a hopeful future.JoyconomyThe trend of balanced optimism links to finding a sweet spot for living happily. The Future 100 by VML Intelligence 2023 trend study found that people are especially seeking joy, happiness, and humor during this period. This is evident in online contents focusing on feel-good materials, funny clips, products with bright and colorful packaging designs, and the popularity of Art Toys. The appeal of cute characters and the excitement of random box surprises indicate a search for small, tangible mood boosters that can divert attention from stress.Radical ReconnectionAs a consequence of the COVID situation that left people feeling lonely and isolated, there is a yearning to be part of larger groups. Research shows that encountering new, diverse groups of people helps fulfill their feelings.In recent years, we’ve seen activities and festivals attempting to act as intermediaries, attracting diverse groups of people to meet and share experiences. This is beneficial not only for individual mental health but also has broader social and economic impacts. Certainly, facing the challenges of today’s world requires collective actions to generate enough momentum to create large-scale impact.From current global trends, we can see that people, organizations, and cities are trying to learn, adapt, and creatively find ways to deal with an uncertain world. The core focus is on choosing to stay positive+ and creating hope that everyone can help make this world better.This year, we expect to see many new design trends and innovations created to address people’s needs and tackle crises.Come explore new trends that will show how creative and design work can bring positive change to the world at the Bangkok Design Week 2025, under the theme ‘Design Up+Rising: Facing Challenges with a Positive Twist’, February 8-23, 2025.Reference:https://stephangrabmeier.de/bani-versus-vuca/#infographichttps://techsauce.co/sustainable-focus/the-global-risks-report-2024-from-world-economic-forumhttps://www.marketingoops.com/reports/world-economic-forum-2024-lesson/https://www.ipsos.com/sites/default/files/ct/news/documents/2024-06/Ipsos-AI-Monitor-2024-key-findings.pdfhttps://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2021/08/tragic-optimism-opposite-toxic-positivity/619786/https://metro.co.uk/2024/03/24/a-pessimistic-world-need-hopecore-save-us-doomscrolling-20496012/https://www.ipsos.com/en-th/ipsos-global-predictions-2024https://www.vml.com/insight/the-future-100-2024https://article.tcdc.or.th//uploads/file/ebook/2566/11/desktop_th/EbookFile_34204_1699259829.pdfBKKDW2025 Open Call for ApplicationDeadline: 30 September 2024 at 23:59 hrs.Apply Now at https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/apply #BKKDW2025#BangkokDesignWeek#DesignUpRising#ออกแบบพร้อมบวก
Influencer Pick #1 สาย sustain
Eco-Friendly Program Checklist with KongGreenGreenGet ready to recharge with positive energy through design and sustainability.In recent years, sustainability has become increasingly central to design practice. Bangkok Design Week continues this tradition, featuringprograms and designs that encourage everyone to learn more about sustainable practices and ideas.“I started reviewing which programs relate to sustainability and found that this year, similar to previous years, there are plenty of them,” said KongGreenGreen, or Kong – Chanut Wudhiwigaigarn, an environmental creator we invited to discuss and highlight upcoming programs at the festival.This reflects that, even with a different theme this year, sustainability remains a central concept of the event. The programs selected by Kong focus not only on design but also on sustainability, covering topics like upcycling, which reduces waste by making the most of existing resources, green spaces that prioritize urban greenery, and circular economy practices that design business models for sustainable growth.If you’re ready, let’s take a look at the highlights chosen by KongGreenGreen that eco-lovers should save as a personal guide to exploring Bangkok Design Week 2025: Design Up+Rising.📍8 – 16 Feb: Charoenkrung – Talat Noi, Yaowarat – Song Wat, Pak Khlong Talat, and other areas📍February 15 – 23 Feb: Phra Nakhon, Bang Lamphu – Khao San, and other areas📍Weekends only (8 – 9, 15 – 16, 22 – 23 Feb): Hua Lamphong, Bang Pho, and other areas#BKKDW2025#BangkokDesignWeek#DesignUpRising#ออกแบบพร้อมบวกUpcycling is a growing trend in design, turning unused or discarded materials into new, useful, and better-looking products. This idea is reflected in Kong’s selected programs, where leftover materials are transformed into music-related products.“The first program is ‘1+1=3’ by Gadhouse. It focuses on upcycling waste, like UHT cartons and packaging scraps, into turntable stands and other music items. They also turn plastic bottle caps into music lifestyle products, linking back to plastic waste management.”Following their previous years’ initiatives, Gadhouse continues to bring fresh ideas with a focus on sustainability, making it easy for everyone to connect with these concepts. This program highlights the role of thoughtful design in Bangkok Design Week.📍”1+1=3″ Collaborative Sustainability for Multiple ImpactREVERB by GadhouseCharoenkrung – Talat NoiFront Square, Grand Postal Building, Charoenkrung Road8 – 16 Feb 2025More information : https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program/106817“This program, organized by the Embassy of the Netherlands, features a screening of the documentary When We Cycle. The film aims to inspire viewers by showing that a city like Bangkok, if thoughtfully planned and structured, can become bike-friendly. This aligns perfectly with the concept of sustainability.”Apart from programs that upcycle waste into new products, Kong emphasizes the importance of sustainable daily habits like cycling or walking. Though seemingly small, these lifestyle changes significantly contribute to long-term sustainability, which is exactly what this Bike-in Movie Night program aims to promote.📍Bike-in Movie NightNetherlands Embassy in BangkokEmbassy of the Netherlands in Bangkok20 Feb 2025More information : https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program/107130“Non-burn joss paper offers a new way to live and adapt culture toward sustainability. But changing beliefs and traditions is one of the hardest things to do.”A big challenge is that some cultural practices, like floating krathongs or burning joss paper, create pollution. These small acts, when added together, can cause bigger problems than we realize.“Burning joss paper has been done for generations, from grandparents to rituals like lighting incense during Chinese New Year or Qingming. While it may only slightly contribute to PM 2.5, it directly affects people, homes, and communities. Changing this could improve air quality and set an example for other changes. Designers can lead this shift, asking questions and finding solutions together.”📍Joss Paper in sustainable wayPlay SpaceHua LamphongPlay Space Cafe8 – 9 / 15 – 16 / 22 – 23 Feb 2025More information : https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/program/111066#BKKDW2025#BangkokDesignWeek#DesignUpRising#ออกแบบพร้อมบวก
8-16 นี้ พบกับ phase 1
Bangkok Design Week 2025 Phase 1 February 8-16, 2025+Charoenkrung – Talat Noi +Yaowarat – Song Wat +Pak Khlong Talat +OthersThe wait is over — it’s official!Phase 1 of Bangkok Design Week 2025 is about to begin!From 8 – 16 Feb 2025, get ready to immerse yourself in a world of design and creativity. Phase 1 of Bangkok Design Week 2025 is packed with unlimited positive energy and an array of dynamic programs. Expect groundbreaking design exhibitions, hands-on workshops, talks, a creative market, music and performances, tours, events, and exclusive promotions.Phase 1 will be held across Bangkok’s most inspiring creative districts, each one rich in culture, design, and inspiration. Explore design in every form as you navigate through Charoenkrung – Talat Noi, Yaowarat – Song Wat, Pak Khlong Talat, and other areas.👉 Check out the full program and plan your visit at:https://www.bangkokdesignweek.com/bkkdw2025/programThe countdown is over — Let’s design, create, and rise together with Bangkok Design Week 2025, happening from 8 – 23 Feb 2025:📌 8 – 16 Feb: Charoenkrung – Talat Noi, Yaowarat – Song Wat, Pak Khlong Talat, and other areas📌 15 – 23 Feb: Phra Nakhon, Bang Lamphu – Khao San, and other areas📌 Weekends only (8 – 9, 15 – 16, 22 – 23 Feb): Hua Lamphong, Bang Pho, and other areas#BKKDW2025#BangkokDesignWeek#DesignUpRising#ออกแบบพร้อมบวก