THE MAGICAL STARS: AN ARCHITECTURAL INSTALLATION EVOKING A WINTER CHILL AMIDST THE TROPICAL CONTEXT OF CENTRAL PATTAYA
PHOTO COURTESY OF CENTRAL PATTAYA
(For Thai, press here)
The greatest challenge in creating a winter festive atmosphere in Thailand lies in confronting a persistently hot and humid climate, particularly in coastal cities like Pattaya, where humidity and average temperatures remain high year-round. The Magical Stars, presented by Central Pattaya in December 2025, goes beyond the simple act of seasonal decoration. Instead, it employs a deliberate design strategy to transform thermal perception, reimagining this seaside destination as if it were immersed in an unexpectedly chilly atmosphere.
A Gateway into the Cold
In an environment defined by heat, the use of sharp, lightweight contemporary architectural language helps to ease visual density and discomfort. The ice-castle-inspired entrance arch at the front of the shopping center is distilled into crisp geometric lines. More than a symbol of modernity, its upward-reaching forms recall naturally occurring ice crystals, planting a sensory impression of coolness in visitors’ minds even before they step inside.
Simulating Nature, Evoking a Cool Atmosphere
At the heart of this tropical ice kingdom is a carefully considered palette of cool-toned materials, combined with pine-inspired landscapes and shimmering snow-like elements that visually temper the surrounding heat. LED lighting is tuned to cool color temperatures, with gentle, rhythmic flickers that mimic the way light reflects off snow. The result is an immersive environment that makes visitors feel as though they are enveloped by an icy realm.
Surrounding the Space with a Breath of Cool Air
Another compelling aspect of the project is the way the sensation of coolness is woven throughout multiple zones, each thoughtfully adapted to its specific context. The central atrium is transformed into a floating pine garden, with strands of LED lights cascading downward like falling snow. Even the building’s structural columns are visually softened, concealed beneath lush greenery that allows them to become part of a temporary pine forest. Together, these interventions lend the interior a sense of vitality while simultaneously creating a refreshing, shaded atmosphere.
While Pattaya is widely recognized as a sun-soaked seaside city, The Magical Stars reimagines this climatic limitation as an opportunity for shared delight. Visitors are invited to experience a winter fantasy beyond imagination and collect memorable moments throughout December 2025 at Central Pattaya.