Refectory, Lounge, and Library at King's College International School Bangkok by Onion

The King's College International School Bangkok has unveiled a new building designed to elevate student life, featuring a refectory, lounge, and library envisioned by acclaimed architecture firm Onion. This innovative space caters to senior high school students, offering a multifunctional environment beyond traditional classroom settings.

The Refectory: A Dynamic Dining and Social Hub

Unlike conventional school canteens that serve only during lunch hours, The Refectory at King's College Bangkok is designed for all-day use. The architects at Onion created a versatile space that fosters interaction, study, and relaxation.

Seating and Zoning

• 246 seating options: 156 indoor (air-conditioned) and 90 in a naturally ventilated space.
• Chairs are designed for various postures, supporting both casual dining and study sessions.
• Instead of partitions, spaces are divided by color palettes—light blue for a calming ambiance, contrasting with the building's orange brick façade.

Table Arrangements for Community and Engagement

• Group-oriented seating: Bar stools, two-seater tables, 12-seater round tables, and 20-seater long tables.
• The naturally ventilated dining area integrates seamlessly with the school's main atrium, allowing visual connectivity between spaces.
• Beyond meal hours, the refectory transforms into a flexible study and discussion area for students and faculty.

Sixth Form Centre: A Student Lounge Designed for Comfort and Productivity

Occupying two floors, the Sixth Form Centre serves as a student lounge with a range of facilities:

• Lockers, study spaces, playrooms, teacher consultation rooms
• Snack vending machines and hydration stations
• Seating configurations for individual work, group discussions, and relaxation

Aesthetic and Functional Design

• Navy blue accents reflect the senior year color scheme, blending with pale wood, silver, and light blue interiors.
• Open-plan design enhances visibility for safety, with white glass walls that double as writable surfaces for students.
• A central staircase with built-in seating connects the fourth and fifth floors, offering views of the football courtyard and green outdoor areas.

Innovative Playroom Concept

• Transparent glass enclosures maintain visibility while ensuring acoustic separation.
• Light blue metal laminate panels feature a grid-like design resembling student graph paper.
• The same pattern language is used in various sections of the Sixth Form Centre, reinforcing a cohesive design identity.

The Library: A Multi-Level Space for Study and Collaboration

Spanning 864 square meters, the library is a two-story space designed to inspire both individual and group learning. A copper-laminated staircase and bridge diagonally connect the floors, creating a dynamic architectural feature.

Material Selection and Interior Aesthetics

• The orange brick exterior extends into the interior, paired with copper accents that contrast matte and reflective surfaces.
• Large windows offer expansive city views, while furniture layouts allow students to choose between quiet reading corners or collaborative workspaces.

Seating and Study Arrangements

• 175 seats for groups, with a mix of tables, chairs, and sofas.
• Five study/meeting rooms dedicated to group discussions.
• Glass-walled reading desks with gradient privacy film, ensuring a balance between openness and focus.

Book Collection and Storage

• The first floor houses individual reading nooks, a reception desk, and bookshelves with a capacity of 11,200 books.
• The design ensures a seamless blend of functionality, privacy, and aesthetic appeal, fostering a comfortable learning atmosphere.

A Space Beyond Academics

By integrating sustainability, flexibility, and community-driven design, Onion has redefined school architecture. This project at King's College International School Bangkok offers a model for future educational spaces—where dining halls, lounges, and libraries become integral to student well-being and engagement.

All Photographs are works of W Workspace