IN / OUT AND IN-BETWEEN

PHTAA LIVING DESIGN HAS TURNED A BASIC WEAVING PATTERN INTO THE SPACE OF A TAILOR HOUSE FOR KEATON TAILORS

Unlike any other vintage suit boutique, Keaton Tailor welcomes its visitors with a façade reminiscent of a piece of plaid cloth when viewed from afar. PHTAA living design, the studio assigned to the project’s architecture, explained that the idea they had for Keaton Tailor began with the book, A Handbook of Weaves by G.H. Oelsner. The publication features a diagram of ancient weaving techniques where grids are determined as the basic structure of pattern formation.

Keaton Tailors by PHTAA Living Design, Photo by Ketsiree Wongwan

While these grids systematically dictate the points where threads are interwoven, PHTAA employs and magnifies this basic feature of textile production with the white spaces representing the voids. The series of crosses symbolizes the moving grid system with the dots being the points where stiches are created. The finished façade serves not only as the decorative elements of the building’s exterior but also links the shop’s outside and inside into one continual mass. Metaphorically, the architecture represents a complete piece of fabric whose patterns on both sides mirror and intertwine in one unified connection.

Keaton Tailors by PHTAA Living Design, Photo by Ketsiree Wongwan

The materials chosen for the decoration range from wood and concrete to steel. With PHTAA’s intention to create a work of true Bangkok Architecture, the idea is materialized through the use of the natural colors of teak and ironwood instead of the currently popular lighter tones of imported wood. The locally available materials are utilized to resonate the space’s surrounding environment. Under a new spatial rhythm, all elements are rearranged, as existing materials are revised such as the way ordinary red bricks are laid to render a square configuration. Bricks are also used to separate the shop from the neighboring buildings located on the same block. Natural light is granted access to the interior, bringing a friendly and relaxing vibe into the space. Despite the compact functional space, Keaton Tailor is fully equipped with functionalities from the fitting room to the reception area for clients and tailors to discuss the boutique’s services.