Benjakitti Forest Park: A Green Oasis in Bangkok by Turenscape & Arsomsilp Community and Environmental Architect

Benjakitti Forest Park, a transformative urban landscape project in Bangkok, is a striking example of ecological design and urban regeneration. Developed by Arsomsilp Community and Environmental Architect in collaboration with Turenscape, this urban park spans 414,400 square meters in the former Tobacco factory area. The project aims to reconnect people with nature and address critical environmental concerns such as flooding, drought, and urban runoff.

Design for Sustainability and Ecological Preservation

The design of Benjakitti Forest Park focuses on improving public understanding of ecology, hydrology, and the urban environment. It features cutting-edge ecological park development techniques to preserve the city’s ecology while addressing the urban challenges of flooding and water purification. The park’s capacity to retain 128,000 cubic meters of water during the rainy season and discharge it in dry months ensures a sustainable water management system. Furthermore, wetland plants purify contaminated water from the nearby Phai Sing To canal, providing 1,600 cubic meters of clean water daily.

Adaptive Strategies for a Monsoon Climate

Thailand’s monsoon climate is a major factor in the park’s design, which serves as a giant “sponge” absorbing excess rainwater and discharging it as needed. Traditional agricultural wisdom has been incorporated to elevate tree roots and maintain efficient water drainage through raceways and irrigation canals. The park has successfully transformed the site’s hard clay soil into a wet, spongy habitat ideal for fostering a diverse plant community with minimal irrigation.

Biodiversity and Ecological Restoration

With the aim of creating a thriving biodiversity hotspot, over 5,600 seedlings of 360 species of rare, indigenous trees were planted. These species are native to Thailand’s central river basin and play a crucial role in restoring the area’s natural ecosystems. Additionally, existing trees on the site were preserved and integrated into the park’s design. The project enhances the area’s ecological health, fostering a rich habitat for both plant and animal life.

A Community-Centric Park Design

Benjakitti Forest Park is designed for accessibility and inclusivity. It offers spaces for all age groups and demographics, from bike lanes and tree-lined paths to a boardwalk and leisure areas under tree canopies. The park’s skywalk, which stretches for 1.67 kilometers, connects visitors to various areas of the park, including a healing garden, sunshine lawn, waterfront pavilion, and an amphitheater for community events. The design ensures that people can engage with nature and enjoy the park’s educational and recreational offerings.

Renovation of Tobacco Factory Buildings

The former tobacco factory buildings have been renovated and repurposed as multi-functional spaces. These buildings will house museums, sports centers, and energy-efficient facilities featuring high ceilings, sunroofs, and trees that enhance indoor air quality. The sustainable design also includes green roofs and natural ventilation systems, ensuring the buildings remain energy-efficient while maintaining a low environmental impact.

A Sustainable Urban Retreat

Benjakitti Forest Park represents a forward-thinking approach to urban landscape design that integrates ecological preservation, sustainability, and public accessibility. It serves as a sanctuary for both urban dwellers and wildlife, promoting a holistic ecosystem within Bangkok. This urban park is a valuable example of how modern architecture can address environmental challenges while offering a tranquil space for the community to reconnect with nature.

All Photograhphs are works of Srirath Somsawat