It looks like Bangkok will be getting a new building added to its skyline in 2012. I thought this would be an interesting subject to post about for two reasons. One, I want to talk about architecture more often as I feel that I’ve neglected the topic. And two, I think this new skyscraper has some interesting visual correlations to graphic design and web design.
It seems that the ‘pixel’ has become an inspirational element in that it is used to symbolize the energy and intensity of the Thai capital. It reminds me of ‘the Matrix’ a bit, like the structure is half digital. I remember when I was in school, web design ideas were eeking their way into print media (as well as the other way around) as designers/viewers were becoming more and more accustomed to being online. I think that healthy combat is still occuring now, but it seems like it finally has started to spread to other art forms in a more literal fashion.
One could definitely argue that Gehry’s Guggenheim in Bilbao may have been one of the first large pieces of architecture to push these digital boundaries due to the fact that the engineering was so complex he needed a computer to help figure everything out. But I think this building aesthetically brings all of those ideas to the surface – People, computers, the internet, energy, how we live, etc.
Check out the link below for more information.
OMA unveils design for MahaNakhon, Bangkok’s tallest building