Where Will the Little Canary Sleep Tonight?"

This project was initiated by mArchten’s partner, Khun Keng Warit Decharin, who took the lead in orchestrating the fundraising efforts for the construction of this building. The aim was to provide a significant contribution to the Bannok Kamin Foundation. Recognizing the profound role that architecture plays in societal development, especially as a space for communal sharing, the design team committed to this project on a pro bono basis to gift it wholeheartedly to the foundation.

The journey was not without its hurdles—construction was delayed due to funding shortfalls from donations and the necessity to carry on building operations concurrently with regular building use. Nevertheless, through strategic management by the architects and a collaborative spirit harnessed from all stakeholders involved, the project reached successful completion, exemplifying the power of architecture as an instrument for community empowerment and social contribution.

Slow Down Time at Bannok Kamin Café

The Bannok Kamin Café is crafted as a serene oasis, inviting all who enter to recharge and foster meaningful interactions. Beyond serving coffee, this intimate space is designed to spark conversations and connections among its visitors. Positioned within the Bannok Kamin community, the café encourages patrons to pause and appreciate their surroundings, effectively slowing down the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The café's design prioritizes functionality and warmth, with its compact setup comfortably accommodating the crafting of coffee for small groups of 2-3 people. This not only ensures personalized service but also maintains an inviting, homey atmosphere. The heart of this café lies in its staff—baristas and employees drawn from the Bannok Kamin Foundation's youth. These young individuals return to the café in rotation, gaining valuable experience while contributing to the community, embodying the spirit of sharing and support that defines Bannok Kamin.

Transforming Ordinary Steps into Relaxing Seating Areas

Observing the behavior of children who often do their homework on the floor, the designers aimed to make the staircase a central feature of the building. They modified the risers of the stairs to be taller than usual, allowing children to sit comfortably in their preferred position for homework. This transformation also provides seating for relaxation or conversation, extending the social space beyond the café. Meanwhile, the opposite side of the risers is adjusted with shorter intervals, making it suitable solely for walking.

Homework and Activity Space for Bannok Kamin Children

On the second floor, a vibrant and versatile space is dedicated to displaying the creative works of the children from Bannok Kamin, fostering a sense of pride and community. This area is thoughtfully designed to also serve as a venue for collaborative activities. It features a variety of seating configurations, including both paired and group setups, ensuring flexibility and ample space for the children and visitors alike.

The railings double as VIP seating, providing an overlook that offers a comprehensive view of the sports field and the broader landscape beyond. This thoughtful design element not only enhances the user experience but also transforms the space into a multipurpose area. Café patrons are invited to utilize this dynamic space for working or relaxing, thereby integrating the activity zone with the vibrant energy of community engagement and creativity.

Enhancing Quality of Life Through Spaces of Sharing

At mArchten, we hold the firm belief that a thriving society is rooted in the spirit of sharing. By creating spaces that foster sharing, we provide sustainable opportunities for education, building a solid foundation grounded in familial and communal institutions reinforced with love and attention. Our commitment extends to supporting nonprofit organizations such as the Bannok Kamin Foundation, where we aim to enhance the learning skills of children. By fostering their educational growth, we empower these young individuals with the potential to evolve their abilities into valuable skills for future career paths. This initiative reflects our dedication to nurturing a brighter, more inclusive future where every child can aspire to achieve greater possibilities.