PARIN+SUPAWUT STUDIO WAS FOUNDED BY TWO DESIGNERS WHO FOCUS ON THE DESIGN PROCESS AND FINDING THE HIDDEN VALUE IN THEIR WORKS, LEADING TO VARIOUS DESIGNS BESPOKE TO THE CONTEXT

TEXT & PHOTO COURTESY OF PARIN+SUPAWUT STUDIO

(For Thai, press here)

WHO

Parin+Supawut is a research-based design studio founded by Parin Nawachartkosit (Ping) and Supawut Teerawatanachai (Leo) in Bangkok. Our work reflects our interests and fond appreciation of material culture, attentive details, and exquisite craftsmanship. We have found the hidden value in their works by developing their own unique design methods focusing on the design process.

WHAT

When it comes to architecture and design, we are led by the belief that every intervention can find inherent value through bespoke designs, regardless of scale or budget limitations. We aim to redefine the concept of ‘bespoke’ by offering well thought out interventions with context and practicality at the forefront, instead of the usual notion of an unobtainable luxury. These accessible bespoke projects are developed and actualized through extensive research, deep understanding, careful prototyping, and meaningful collaboration, first and foremost, with the clients, engineers, and makers. Our work, therefore includes architectural design, interior design, and furniture design to the production process of various parts, from houses to buildings to door handles and even mixing color schemes.

WHEN

Our partnership traces back to our first year at the Bartlett School of Architecture (UCL) in London. We often exchanged perspectives and explored shared interests throughout the years. Following our graduation and professional experience at a London-based studio, we made the choice to return to the familiar context of Bangkok to continue our collaborative work.

WHERE

We selected Bangkok because we acknowledge the complex dynamics and driving forces behind the multicultural city. With its diverse and sometimes conflicting socio-cultural communities, the city’s imperfections provide fertile ground for our design works to engage and interrogate with.

WHY

We are interested in the term ‘bespoke’, originally used to describe tailor-made suits and shoes.  With an attention to detail to both the process and final product, from precise measurements and pattern drawings to material selections and stitching, we aspire to curate each piece of our work with the same level of craftsmanship.

How would you describe your work?

We adhere to a distinct ‘method of working’, yet we do not adhere to a ‘personal style’. It’s not because we haven’t discovered one yet, but rather in our belief to approach every brief and project with a clean slate. This approach allows the context to guide the development of design language and direction organically, which is where inherent value can be found.

What is your inspiration and guiding principle for each creation?

We find inspiration in the challenges and constraints of each project. Having a clear vision, seeking solutions as designers and understanding of our role is key, acknowledging that collaboration is essential for every project. In our recent teacher’s accommodation restoration, we engaged in early discussions with local workers to exchange ideas on how to efficiently bring the building together, creating a mutual understanding between the drawing board and the on-site realization.

What project are you most proud of?

Each project we undertake is inherently distinct, shaped by its unique circumstances and driving forces, ensuring that our approach and design direction remain perpetually fresh. While we do not have a singular favorite project, we do cherish specific moments within each — the moment when we successfully uncover the inherent value embedded within. At times, this value manifests intuitively, evident in the seamless integration of beauty and functionality. Alternatively, it may require the implementation of complex strategies to navigate and craft innovative design solutions. Occasionally, it revolves around efficient resource management, guided by a specially curated Bill of Quantities (BOQ).

Which stage of the design process do you like the most?

We strongly advocate for dedicating time and joy to the conceptual development of every project, employing a research-based approach that serves as the backbone of our work. Through detailed project dissection, deep research, and an intensive process of iterating and exploring various ideas, we strive to craft a coherent design brief. With each new project, we consistently deepen our understanding and appreciation of our city, fostering continual learning and growth.

If you could invite a ‘creative’ to coffee, who would you invite and why?

It would be Jacques Herzog from Herzog & de Meuron — his academic and theoretical approach, balanced with a pragmatic understanding of the real world, demonstrates a clear contextual sensitivity and attention to detail in their projects. It is something we try to capture in our own works.

We also hold the partnership and bond between Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron in high regard, one that extends beyond professional collaboration. It is rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and an unwavering dedication to their craft. Their complementary strengths and perspectives have significantly enriched and diversified their body of work over the years. It would be delightful to meet them at one point.

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