AN ARTISTIC VIBE INSPIRED A WHITE-WALLS TOWNHOUSE IN BANGKOK
Interior studio, TOFF expressed the art appreciation: collaborating the iconic furniture with unique artefacts
‘The interiors have been tailored by double-void white walls, sophisticated timber floors, historical furniture designs and sought-after sculptures,’ says Thai-born architect Akarawoot Rajtborirak, founder of TOFF studio, describing the inspiration behind the interior design of his residence. An inviting, gallery-like atmosphere, a sense of home and filled with some of the finest examples of furniture – from mid-century classics to modern pieces – this home may seem like his passions to art and architecture. ‘I wanted to live in these conversations with former sculptures of King Rama V & IX’ he explains, ‘to breathe this remarkable environment in my home.’
Located in the residential district, Bangkok, this architect’s home occupies the 4 storey height with double volume that radiating a sense of grandeur, bring the natural light and connect two levels visually and functionally. A bright ceiling,’ he continues, ‘elevates you to get the museum’s atmosphere.’ The absence of downlight was substituted by uplight projecting the glairiness of high ceiling look like a gallery, while spotlights are placed constantly evolving art collection of its best advantage from ENDO lighting specialist.
The gallery look can be freeze, but here artefacts are not the only sources of colour and texture. Bronze sculptures, asymmetric cut rug, wall tapestry and blown glass lamp added a sophisticated edge and an element of incredible experiences when paired with recognizable furniture designs by mid-century masters Le Corbusier, Gerrit Rietveld, Arne Jacobsen and more.
The white tone he has chosen to complement the selected art pieces, while great architect’s furniture exude warmth. It’s a perfectly orchestrated fantasy, which, mixed with Thai sculptures and French tapestry from Jules Pansu, means that Akarawoot enjoys the living vibes all day long with his family.
‘Naturality of different timber flooring patterns in each level has made eye-catching approach on its own, says Akarawoot. The studio’s considered use of natural freeform in solid prank on ground level, making wow impression from the moment you step inside the house. On upper level, the geometrical shapes in graphite’s created a dynamic exposure from corridor to family room, while the modular freeform’s generated the flow from master bedroom through walk-in closet and the hexagon weaving in walnut on top level’s inspired us to the ancient period of timber floor invention. With his timber selections from Champaca, Akarawoot has created a distinctive ambience that is a true reflection of his personality and style.
‘There’s a pillar situated in the centre of main area on ground level,’ says Akarawoot Rajtborirak, referring to the existing structure that is an inevitable – but this being solved by geometrical patterned rug by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec from Nanimarquina, leaning against the long shelves blurring of the circulation which is something that occupies the FLEXFORM sectional seating by Antonio Citterio and NOMOS dining table by Norman Foster, aesthetically in this home.
On first level, ‘Elements like the Buddhist sculpture molded by Chakrabhand Posayakrit, Thai National Artist in 2000 at the corridor capture Thailand’s reverence for heritage, while still embracing modern comfort with Japanese’ Togos and refinement in family room, Akarawoot says.
Playing with decorative items is a big part in the design story on this second level, Akarawoot reflects. An abstract patterned rug by 8 years old talented Dutch artist - Alf Barbel Wit, has dominated an unusual master bedroom into vibrant space connecting throughout the dressing area and walk-in closet. Vitra’s Limited Panton Chair Duo, Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman from Herman Miller, Hans Wegner’s 60th Anniversary CH07 Shell Chair, Cattelan Shelves and Superloon Lamp by FLOS are key elements defining the features its own style, calming the space but lively character.
On third level, another bedroom’s interior feels comfortable, thanks to minimal touch that Akarawoot and his team brought to their design. ‘The space is a beautiful balance between white walls, Kartell sofa by Rodolfo Dordoni, 50th anniversary Togos from Ligne Roset, remastered Aeron chair and colourful rugs – all contributing to an environment that feels timeless, wonderfully dynamic and inviting,’ he comments.
For the most part, explains Akarawoot, ‘the initial statement was not to build anything too much’ because, for me and family, the furniture is as worthy of living as the many pieces of artefact that make our home unique.
When it comes to explaining Akarawoot’s design methodology, he called ‘less material selection is more living adaptation’ It’s a description that could be used for his home – an interior that focuses on a perfect combination between limited materials and unlimited elements. A very personal space that invites interaction and interpretation. A place that builds inspiration to inhabitants.
From this blank canvas, Akarawoot has conjured a home bursting with artistic vibes and now being unveiled to show its full potential to the visitors.