BANGKOK DESIGN WEEK 2025, 8 –23 FEB

JHANYAR.THINGS

GAGEENANG, PRODUCT FOR STREET FOOD AT YAOWARAT DESIGN

JHANYAR (จรรยา) is a small design team consisting of Watcharavit Chanyakul (Fer) and Siriwan Wattanajindawong (Bam), both graduates of the Faculty of Decorative Arts, Product Design Department, at Silpakorn University. After completing their studies, they began working as independent designers. Their central design philosophy revolves around harnessing the creativity born from the “Thai way of problem-solving,” a method imbued with charm and unique characteristics found across the country. Through the design process, they aim to transform these ideas into solutions that elevate various aspects of life with integrity and responsibility. The inspiration for the “GaGeeNang” project stemmed from their fondness for enjoying street food. As frequent patrons of various street food spots, both familiar and new, they noticed a recurring feature—the furniture. No matter where you go, whether in urban neighborhoods like Thonglor-Sukhumvit or iconic street food areas like Yaowarat, you’ll encounter colorful plastic chairs and folding metal tables. These items have become emblematic of Thai street food culture. While these chairs and tables possess a lively and unique charm, the team identified usability issues that raised questions about user behavior. For instance, folding tables often prioritize space for condiments over customer comfort, and plastic chairs are sometimes used in unconventional ways, such as one chair for sitting and another as an improvised table. Observing these scenarios sparked their curiosity and drove them to view these limitations as opportunities for design improvement. The team began by analyzing the behaviors and needs of the stakeholders involved, focusing on two primary groups: Users (customers at the food stalls) and Operators (food stall owners). Each group has different perspectives on the functionality of plastic chairs and folding metal tables. The goal was to create designs that cater to both groups by enhancing usability and addressing gaps in existing furniture design. The "GaGeeNang" project aims to elevate traditional street food furniture by focusing on small yet impactful details. For instance, the team sought to maximize the utility of the hole in the middle of plastic chairs, originally a production feature, by transforming it into a functional element for managing items on the table. This approach ensures a more organized dining experience, allowing users to concentrate on the flavors of their meals without distractions. The redesigned furniture pieces will be subtly introduced into the bustling streets of Yaowarat, placed in collaboration with iconic establishments such as Jek Pui Curry Rice, Krua Pornlamai, Pang Ping Nong Am, and others. By integrating their designs with these beloved venues, they aim to enhance both the dining experience and the charm of these local businesses. Through the "GaGee Nang" project, the team hopes to offer a better, more enjoyable experience for both diners and passersby, elevate the image of street food by focusing on cleanliness and organization, improve service quality and the overall dining experience for customers, and enhance quality of life by increasing comfort and refining the visual ambiance of street food settings. This will encourage diners to focus on the food’s flavors rather than distractions. The team aspires for “GaGee Nang” to connect people—customers and operators alike—through thoughtfully designed street food furniture. Together, they aim to transform the vibrant streets of Thailand into an even more delightful culinary journey with JHANYAR's table-and-chair sets.
Designer
  • วัชรวิทย์ จรรยากูล