UrbanSphere Solutions is a creative consultancy dedicated to fostering sustainable urban development in Thailand and the rest of Southeast Asia. With expertise in placemaking, urbanism, sustainability strategies, and community engagement, we create vibrant, inclusive spaces that enhance quality of life.
UrbanSphere Solutions crafts sustainable strategies for places and developments, specialising in placemaking, sustainability strategies, process management, and strategic advisory. With global and local expertise, we deliver feasible and innovative solutions, fostering sustainability in all our endeavours.
Bangkok’s old warehouses and office buildings, often left empty by owners waiting for developers, hold untapped potential for creative regeneration. These spaces could be transformed into coworking hubs, restaurants, or cultural landmarks, like Galileoasis or Warehouse 30, adding vibrancy and preserving history. Sustainable renovations, such as adding solar panels, green walls, and reusing materials, can make these spaces more efficient and eco-friendly. Though challenges like costs and Bangkok’s “new is better” mindset remain, a step-by-step approach—assessing the building, defining its purpose, and launching flexibly—can help owners unlock their value. By embracing their past, Bangkok’s forgotten buildings could play a key role in shaping its future.
Anne Hidalgo’s statement, "A city's creativity doesn't depend on cars," inspires a reimagining of Bangkok, a city heavily reliant on vehicles due to its unique climate, culture, and infrastructure. While Bangkok faces challenges like heat, unpredictable weather, and limited public transit, envisioning a future with shaded, tree-lined sidewalks, dedicated cycling lanes, and electric public transportation offers a hopeful alternative. This dream of a greener, more vibrant city also includes reclaiming streets for community spaces and urban agriculture, aiming for resilience against climate change. Yet, the reality is tough, as Bangkok's deep-rooted reliance on cars won't change overnight. However, small steps toward this vision can help transform Bangkok into a city prioritizing people, creativity, and sustainability.
The discussion highlights Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) as a strategic approach for improving urban mobility and economic vitality in Thailand, with a focus on Bangkok. By integrating residential, commercial, and leisure spaces around public transit systems, TOD aims to reduce congestion, enhance public health, and stimulate economic growth. The success of European cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen, which have implemented park-and-ride facilities and extensive cycling infrastructure, serves as inspiration. The proposal for Bangkok includes developing mobility hubs, investing in infrastructure that supports non-motorized transport, and adapting these strategies to local urban conditions to promote a sustainable and efficient city environment.