DECODE SHOPHOUSE-Arch's draw on the table

1 At first sight

SCOPE OF WORK

The scope of the renovation for the second-floor room of the Samfah Building, aimed to transform it into office space for an architectural design company, encompasses two main aspects: Repair and Restoration: Addressing damages and deterioration in specific areas to restore functionality.

Space Modification: Modifying certain parts of the room to accommodate workstations, meeting areas, brainstorming sessions, and group activities.

Following these work principles, the process involves space planning and management, along with methods for improving the designated areas. The steps are closely tied to a survey, investigation, and learning from practical experiences. Throughout this process, the renovator gains insights into the history and current state of the second-floor room through photographs and survey data.

2 Scope of work and Survey Process

3 The Measurement

Flooring: The wooden floor is damaged and worn in certain areas.

Walls: The plaster on the walls is deteriorating at some points.

There are indentations and erosion marks on the walls, likely resulting from impact.

Ceiling: There are water stains on the ceiling, indicating water seepage from the roof.

4 Condition Survey

Due to the deteriorating condition of the plaster on the walls, it is necessary to first remove all the damaged plaster by scraping and chiseling before proceeding with the surface treatment of the plaster.

Subsequently, a new plaster layer will be applied to cover the damaged areas.

Due to the sagging of the wooden floor in the middle of the room and the absence of floor joists, it is necessary to repair the subfloor. The entire wooden floor will be removed, and floor joists will be installed before reinstalling the floor.

5 Repair the Room

The above design is intended for coordinating with the contractor in reinforcing the components of the room to make it functional. Due to the need to minimize changes to the physical space and to save on budget, the decision has been made to focus only on essential elements. This includes adding doors and windows to partition the room and incorporating electrical, lighting, power, and air conditioning systems.

6 Architectural Drawing

Image of the furniture simulation All furniture has been designed and drafted by Code Studio to be sent to Samfa as the wooden furniture manufacturer. Additionally, the steel frame designs have been sent to the steel workshop for production. Every piece of furniture is designed to be modular, allowing for easy movement and disassembly to accommodate future changes in usage. This design approach aims to minimize disruption to the existing building surfaces and structure as much as possible.

7 Space Planning

Inage of recoating wooden floor and inserting necessary system

Floor management utilizes two approaches. In the working area, the floor is adjusted, and its surface is coated with a semi-glossy acrylic solution, enhancing aesthetics and usability. For other areas, the existing wood surface is maintained without adjustments, only applying a single coat of acrylic paint for protection.

Wall management also employs two techniques. In the working area, the walls are primed, and the surface is skim-coated with a moistureresistant plaster, creating a clean and suitable workspace environment. In other areas, the existing wall texture is preserved, applying a primer and coating it with a moisture-resistant wall coating.

Newly introduced components include wooden doors and windows with glass, as well as poly-carbonate panels for areas requiring natural light.

Additionally, electrical lighting systems, power outlets, and air conditioning systems are installed using exposed conduit for easy maintenance.

8 New Design

Image of the furniture installing 9 Furnish and Finishing

Accumulate budget

10 Budget and Consulting

Having the opportunity to work in the historic district is a valuable aspect of our studio's work. Despite living in a convenient and gastronomically rich area, the crucial element is the interaction with people and the nearby community. We have learned and applied this knowledge in our design projects, incorporating the local wisdom into our creative process.

The successful renovation of this row building would not have been possible without the support of everyone. We express our gratitude to Ar kung, Ar po, Gu po, kew May, kew Daeng, and all relatives who have preserved and passed down this heritage. Thank you to all friends and supporters who have given us the chance to revive and improve this space. Special thanks to our mentors, including Aj. Yui, Aj. Buum, Aj. Noon, Aj. Teii, P’Prim, Aj. Kitty, Aj. Fai, and all friends who contributed to the success of this project. Welcome everyone to this space, and we are grateful for your continuous support.

11 Living in the heritage building