AUKRA DESIGN REINTERPRETS THAI CULTURAL ROOTS THROUGH CONTEMPORARY ART AND CRAFTSMANSHIP TO CREATE SPACES WITH UNIQUE IDENTITY AND MEANING
TEXT: AUKRA DESIGN
PHOTO: AUKRADEJ PREMPIYAMONTEE
(For Thai, press here)
WHO
We are a collective of creatives, artisans, and specialists in the fine and decorative arts who believe that art on walls, and across all kinds of materials, can transform a space into something alive with story and meaning.
WHAT
We design and create bespoke artworks, ranging from mural painting to decorative surface treatments on various materials. Each piece is conceived with beauty, character, and a distinct identity.
WHEN
We are committed to building a strong foundation and expanding our capabilities to fully support international projects and large-scale corporate commissions.
WHERE
Our work spans many types of spaces, from the public areas of premium hotels and restaurants with clearly defined identities to residences across different scales, including the luxury segment.
WHY
To demonstrate that art is a strategic investment, one that advances Thai craftsmanship, creates both emotional and commercial value, and strengthens the image of Thainess in a distinctive and sustainable way.
How do you define your own style of work?
Our work is not merely decoration for the sake of beauty. Rather, it is the creation of an aesthetic experience that connects cultural roots with the needs and standards of both Thai and international clients.
What inspires you and what principles do you apply to each project?
We begin by listening to the client’s story and understanding their needs, which we then interpret them through our own creative lens. Our guiding principle is that good art must work in dialogue with its context and endure, both in terms of quality and aesthetic value.
Which project are you most proud of and why?
Aman Nai Lert Bangkok. Beyond the scale and significance of the project itself, it gave us the opportunity to collaborate with an international design team with a sharply defined vision. We are proud to have been entrusted with expressing the ‘spirit of Thai art’ in a way that aligns with ultra-luxury standards. The challenge lay in preserving the refinement of traditional craftsmanship within a design context that is contemporary, understated, and sophisticated. Working with a world-class design team sharpened our understanding of how Thai art can move beyond its familiar boundaries and enter an international arena. The project became a testament to Aukra Design’s concept of ‘Thai Art, Elevated,’ demonstrating how it can converse powerfully and seamlessly with a global design language.
Which part of the process do you enjoy the most during work?
We place great importance on the conceptual foundation and the selection of materials, as this is the stage where we analyze the context in order to create new surfaces and spatial dimensions. The satisfaction comes from establishing a clear system, then watching the work gradually evolve from sketches into a tangible piece. It is the joy of seeing craftsmanship progress hand in hand with a structured working process.
If you could invite any ‘creative’ for a coffee, who would it be and why?
Jean-Michel Gathy. As a designer of ultra-luxury projects around the world, he has a remarkable ability to perfectly blend ‘quiet luxury’ with the cultural context of each place.