Bangkok, April 4, 2018 -- The Association of Siamese Architects under the Royal Patronage and TTF International Co., Ltd. along with a group of exhibitors held a press conference to announce the readiness for Architect Expo '61 (Architect Expo 2018) “Beyond Ordinary: Not Ordinary” under the concept of creating local architecture in the contemporary lifestyle of Thai society, showcasing design works from leading architects in ASEAN, and innovations in Living Tech products that meet the needs of consumers in the 4.0 era, especially innovations for elderly care. The event will take place from May 1-6, 2018, at Challenger Hall 1-3, Impact Exhibition and Convention Center, Muang Thong Thani.

           Mr. Atchaphol Dusitnanont, President of the Association of Siamese Architects under the Royal Patronage expressed confidence in the organization of Architect Expo '61, the largest architectural technology and construction materials exhibition in ASEAN, stating, “The advancement of Thai architecture is unique and distinctive. This event will showcase the transformation of architecture and local design in the contemporary lifestyle of Thai society by considering local wisdom that is close to us, bringing knowledge inherited from the past, both in terms of design concepts that align with the environment and the use of local materials, which may be the answer for the future.” This year's expo will feature distinguished architects and designers from Thailand, such as Prof. Dr. Veera Inpanthang, Boonlert Hemvijitpan, and Suriyah Amphanserirat, along with over 18 groups of new-generation architects who will interpret the definition of locality in interesting ways. Attendees can apply various concepts from the exhibition to their current living spaces.

           Asst. Prof. Dr. Apiradee Kasemsuk, Chair of Architect Expo '61 elaborated on the details of the event, noting that this is the first time the expo will feature a pavilion designed for the main exhibition by over 18 groups of architects and designers, providing an opportunity for creative professionals from various generations to present Vernacular Living from their perspectives. Visitors will experience architecture and furniture design made from ordinary materials with 'extraordinary' designs and learn about local wisdom from various angles through the exhibition.

           "I believe Architect Expo '61 will help open new perspectives on locality that many people often view as outdated or old-fashioned. In reality, locality can be made contemporary and compatible with modern lifestyles. This event will incorporate Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality technology into the display of local architecture, allowing audiences worldwide to experience the real pavilion through 3D glasses as well,”

           One of the highlights not to be missed is the international seminar ASA Forum 2018, which this year features renowned architects from around the world, including Manuelle Gautrand, a French architect and winner of the European Prize for Architecture; Yung Ho Chang, a master architect and member of the Pritzker Prize jury; David Van Severen, a Belgian architect from OFFICEKGDVS; Han Tümertekin, a Turkish architect and Aga Khan Award winner; and Farshid Moussavi, a British-Iranian architect with RIBA Award-winning designs.

           On the side of Mr. Suphaman Markha, Deputy Managing Director of TTF International Co., Ltd., the organizer, revealed, “This year we have received a great response from exhibitors in the construction-related products and services sector, nearing full occupancy of 75,000 square meters, or about 15 times the size of a football field. Companies from around the world have confirmed their participation, including European technology displays by IMAG, a subsidiary of Messe Munchen in Germany, the organizer of BAU, the largest architecture, product, and construction systems exhibition in the world, along with exhibitors from various countries such as Australia, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, China, the USA, Vietnam, etc., totaling over 850 companies. We expect no less than 400,000 attendees this year. We believe this event will not only showcase the advancement of Thai architecture but also positively impact the economy, as spending during the event is projected to exceed ten billion baht.”

           Exhibitors are preparing to showcase products that integrate design, innovation, and technology effectively to inspire visitors. For example, Lixil booth from Lixil (Thailand) Public Company Limited, a leader in global home and sanitary ware brands, is set to unveil new products from American Standard, including the Kastello Collection and City Collection, which will transform bathrooms into joyful spaces, and the launch of the ultimate shower innovation, AquaSymphony, the largest, most luxurious rain shower with numerous functions, along with GROHE Sensia Arena, a smart toilet that combines German design and Japanese technology, as well as products from INAX Ecocarat, a leader in unique tile technology recognized as a construction material for moisture control, and TOSTEM, a comprehensive aluminum prefabricated product line.

           For the UMI Group booth from Sahamongkol Industrial Co., Ltd. (Public), the producer and distributor of tiles under the Duragres and Ceragres brands, they will present home decoration ideas in a homely style with various tile designs, conveying room decoration in Cozy (warm and simple), Fresh (vibrant and lively), and Inspire (inspiration and imagination) styles, allowing everyone in the home to share joyful moments together. They will also introduce an intelligent Web Browser program that allows you to select different tiles at your fingertips, providing a 360-degree virtual room simulation before making a decision.

           Meanwhile, the SCG booth from SCG Cement-Building Materials Co., Ltd., a giant in construction product technology, has created this year's booth concept as Passion for Better Living, a drive to create better things, consisting of Innovation Inspiration and Information, showcasing both SCG Living Tech and SCG Building Tech innovations. A highlight of the booth is the Home Buddy Application, which connects the home-building process both online and in-store, providing customers with convenience in every aspect, including the innovative Active AIRFlowTM System that can create good air quality within rooms with Well Air. Additionally, there is the SCG Eldercare Solution technology with the development of a pencil robot to enhance elderly care capabilities and modern product designs by world-class designers.

           The response from exhibitors at Architect Expo '61 reflects the economic expansion that seems vibrant among creators, producers, and sellers, as well as meeting the demands of consumers in the Thailand 4.0 era. This is undoubtedly one of the largest events in ASEAN that professionals in this field must keep an eye on.

Thank you for the information from the Association of Siamese Architects under the Royal Patronage.