Bangkok Library Digital library and information center for Bangkok, Thailand

New Thai Parliament Design Exhibition (รัฐสภาใหม่) is showing now until March 26 at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC). The show introduces the work of finalists, selected designs, and the winner of the competition.

Presented by the National Assembly of Thailand and the Association of Siamese Architects in cooperation with the BACC, the exhibition has many stunning drawings, scale models, and CGI presentations – including video and photo-realistic images. With entries from leading Thai architects and university students, there is everything here from the traditional to the unbelievable.

Amazing Thailand is of course conservative Thailand too, especially when it comes to anything connected with the government, so that must have limited the shortlisted designs. Nevertheless, I found nearly every exhibit worthy of viewing, and for anyone interested in architecture this show is a “must see”.

Overall, I really enjoyed the exhibition but was left with some nagging thoughts in my mind. Does Thailand really need a new Parliament Building? Is this the best way to bridge the widening gap between the “elite” and the generally underprivileged majority of Thailand? And last but certainly not least, who will pay?

Comments anyone?

===

Showing: February 11 – March 26, 2010
Admission: Free
Location: Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)

Restrictions: No flash photography or tripods; bags must be left at reception.