State Mint in Bangkok. From a historic banknote printing facility to an economic and cultural museum
State Mint in Bangkok. From a historic banknote printing facility to an economic and cultural museum

State Mint in Bangkok. From a historic banknote printing facility to an economic and cultural museum

The project, by Creative Crews, was selected as the winner of the Bank of Thailand's design competition to renovate its historic mint in Bangkok and turned it into a multifunctional centre and museum

The project site is adjacent to the Rama VIII Bridge, opposite the Bangkhunprom Palace, on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The old Mint is an example of 60s-70s Thai design and technology that stands out from the typical traditional architecture of temples and palaces

State Mint in Bangkok. From a historic banknote printing facility to an economic and cultural museum

Since access to the Chao Phraya River is restricted to traffic only, the project wanted to somehow connect people to the river and create a public space in its vicinity. To this end, an old building was demolished and panoramic steps were added to allow visitors to fully enjoy the view of the river

State Mint in Bangkok. From a historic banknote printing facility to an economic and cultural museum

In order to preserve the original identity of the building, the architect proposed to maintain some details of the building, thus preserving its historical context, such as the characteristic convex roof made of reinforced concrete casting. The perimeter wall has been replaced by a large window to let in natural light and to enjoy the view of the river from the centre of the building. As for the new additions, they are identified by the use of distinct finishes

State Mint in Bangkok. From a historic banknote printing facility to an economic and cultural museum

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