A 120-year-old Chinese school transformed into a multi-purpose cultural space integrating an art gallery, design retail, and nose-to-tail beef restaurant. Features meticulous architectural restoration using reclaimed materials.
Overview
This former Arthorn Suksa Chinese School (1899-2017) was converted in 2019 by architect Pornthep Attakanwong and curator Porntip Attakanwong into a cultural complex preserving much of its original architectural elements.
Architecture & Design
- Original teak facade integrated with full-length glass
- Preserved historical features including exposed brick and ghostly staircase outlines
- Reclaimed materials from the original building and Chinese temple doors
- Modern interventions: whitewashed walls and concrete floors
Programming
Exhibition Space
- Second floor gallery hosting rotating shows every 1-2 months
- Focus on established and emerging Thai artists
- Student exhibition program supporting transition from academic to professional art world
Retail Concept
- Ground floor designed as collector's home environment
- Curated selection of furniture, ceramics, carvings and antiques
- Integration of diverse temporal and cultural elements
Culinary Innovation
- Mad Beef restaurant operated by Puntip Attakanwong
- Nose-to-tail beef concept focusing on secondary cuts
- Sustainability-driven approach to meat preparation
Technical Details
- Two-story layout
- Free public access to exhibitions
- Operating hours: [not provided]
- Located at 19 Charoenkrung Soi 30