7 November 2025
Moderated by Dr. Chanyaporn Bstieler
Last Friday, we were delighted to host a special talk titled “Light as the Soul of Architecture and Place” at the Knowledge Exchange (KX) Building (KMUTT), as part of ourGraduate School and Planning’s Professional Talk Series. Jenchieh Hung and Kulthida Songkittipakdee, the founders of HAS Design and Research, shared their experiences and unique approach to architectural design, translating extensive design research into unconventional and unique projects. This method has created meaningful spaces and unique experiences, even when using common materials or an ordinary site context. The talk was special because it emphasized the interplay of light, materials, space, and time in their work, responding to contemporary architecture’s role in the urban context where people interact with them both day and night.
Our graduate students were fortunate to hear about the journeys of two talented young architects who have gained valuable experience at world-renowned firms, including Renzo Piano and Kengo Kuma. I admire how Renzo Piano embraces natural light as a fundamental element in his iconic museums and art galleries. Additionally, Kengo Kuma beautifully utilizes local materials with great attention to detail. I saw these qualities reflected in the selected projects of Jenchieh and Kulthida.
The “Freeing Frameyard”, the small pavilion constructed in the central courtyard of the 300-year-old Wall community in China, though modest in scale, is crucial to both the history and the future of this community. The humble structure of the pavilion symbolizes the Banyan tree, which holds significant meaning for the village and its people. I admire how the thousands of simple rods sway independently in the air while collectively forming the pavilion’s permeable enclosure. These rods interact with sunlight, casting dynamic patterns of shade and shadow throughout the day. At night, the artificial lighting is discreetly integrated into the structure, emitting a cool white glow that resembles gentle moonlight, creating a delicate yet striking effect.
The “Simple Art Museum,” another acclaimed project in China, features a distinctive undulating ceiling design inspired by the nearby river. This roof extends outward, subtly inviting people to enter and socialize within the space. The undulating ceiling features integrated diffuse lighting along its length, enhancing the indoor gallery with uniform illumination. Additionally, narrow vertical openings allow natural light to enter, creating a balanced environment. This design enables visitors to concentrate on the activities and artworks without distractions from the outside world.
During the ASA Exhibition in May 2025, I had the opportunity to experience another award-winning project: The Aluminum Grotto and Public Ground. The subtle uplighting accentuated the dramatic shape of the pavilion and its rich texture. Initially unaware of the two skylights inside, I instinctively followed the bright lights to explore further. I was pleasantly surprised to discover them; the experience was like entering a natural cave with an opening to the bright sky. The aluminum ‘grotto’ left a significant impression on me, and I gained a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and attention to detail after learning about their design process and the great efforts that went into it.
The Museum of Modern Aluminum in Thailand is a remarkable project that breaks away from traditional design by transforming a typical commercial building into a unique showcase for aluminum. The architects have creatively turned the building inside out, making the main exhibits visible on its facade. This common building material, often overlooked, is given a prominent display here. The varying qualities of daylight interact with different shades of white aluminum profiles, dynamically shifting with the colors of the sky during the golden hours just before sunset.
Moreover, the sculptural quality of the aluminum façade is enhanced by various lighting treatments at night, creating a captivating visual experience. Diffused light accentuates the building’s volume and depth, while small light points at the ends of the long aluminum profiles gently sway in the breeze, creating a sparkling effect reminiscent of fireflies.
I appreciate the meticulous investigation of context and materials in their work, which greatly influences their architectural designs. Additionally, they emphasize the vital role of lighting, both during the day and at night. On a practical note, Jenchieh Hung and Kulthida also highlighted the im
portance of lighting mock-ups, which allow designers to test how light integrates into their projects. I am very grateful for their willingness to share their journey and experiences with us, as this will leave a lasting impression and serve as motivation for our students and other young designers who attended the event.
Credit for project images:
Freeing FrameYard https://www.designboom.com/architecture/has-design-research-freeing-frameyard-hakka-village-shenzhen-china-02-01-2023/
Simple Art Museum https://www.designboom.com/architecture/has-design-research-simple-art-museum-hefei-china-10-10-2024/
Aluminum Grotto and Public Ground https://www.archdaily.com/1017209/aluminum-grotto-and-public-ground-has-design-and-research
Museum of Modern Aluminum Thailand https://www.archdaily.com/976449/museum-of-modern-aluminum-thailand-has-design-and-research
