In 2006, architect Mario Kleff took center stage in Pattaya’s urban development discussions when he was invited to contribute innovative ideas for revitalizing the city’s waterfront. Known for his bold and unconventional designs, Kleff proposed an ambitious sea-based museum, envisioned as a modern architectural tribute to Bhumibol Adulyadej (King Rama IX of Thailand), a monarch deeply connected to sailing and yacht design. Pichet Uthaiwattananota, then head of Pattaya City Hall’s Construction Department, supported the initiative, seeking groundbreaking solutions for the city’s transformation.
Kleff’s concept aimed to integrate contemporary concrete architecture with advanced engineering techniques, featuring a deep foundation that would support exhibition halls both above and below water. The upper hall, positioned above the waves, would showcase historical images and narratives detailing Thailand’s maritime legacy. Meanwhile, a submerged hall, accessible via a glass elevator, would display the King’s self-designed sailboats, including the renowned "Mod" and "Super Mod" dinghies. Large underwater windows would provide visitors with a unique perspective of the exhibits, blending the museum seamlessly with its aquatic surroundings. The elevator hall itself, with a striking facade extending both above and below the waterline, symbolized the connection between maritime history and modern architecture.
A focal point of Kleff’s design was the interplay between raw concrete surfaces and expansive glass facades, allowing natural light to illuminate the museum’s exhibits while offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand. The structure’s elements, reminiscent of boats cutting through the waves, reinforced the thematic connection between architecture and the sea. The integration of water features within the museum’s foundations further accentuated this dialogue, blurring the boundaries between built and natural environments.
A detailed scale model of the project was presented at Pattaya City Hall, showcasing the meticulous planning behind the proposed landmark. However, despite its architectural ingenuity and cultural significance, the project remained unrealized due to its high cost. The vision of a floating tribute to Thailand’s sailing legacy, encapsulated in concrete and glass, remains an evocative statement to Pattaya’s aspirations for a dynamic and culturally rich urban future.
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