sirindhorn anthropology center

Location: Bangkok
Project Type: Architectural & Interior Renovation
Size: 1,200m2
Completion: Opened in 2021

Landscape design : Urbanist
Design team: Pitupong Chaowakul,
Krit Praephan, Rachanon Thaikaew

Photograph: W Workspace

SAC: A Human-Centered Transformation

When the Sirindhorn Anthropology Center (SAC) is mentioned, many people have only a cursory awareness of its existence, despite its significant collections of books, artifacts, and theses pertaining to ASEAN Anthropology. This underutilization can be attributed to its inconvenient location and the building being obscured from the main road by surrounding structures. Such circumstances have regrettably rendered this invaluable institution underappreciated for decades. Previous efforts to attract visitors, such as the establishment of a small library and café near the roadside, failed to fully integrate with the main facility.

In 2019, a comprehensive rejuvenation program for SAC commenced. Phase 1 encompassed the renovation of the library, the redesign of the entrance and adjoining garden, and the refurbishment of the main building’s facade. Phase 2 focused on overhauling the entire ground floor interior to create more effective spaces for permanent and temporary exhibitions.

The overarching objective of this transformation is to enhance the visitor experience, making it more inviting and accessible for "PEOPLE". The extensive drop-off canopy for cars was the first element to be replaced by a new reception lobby. This change allows visitors to arrive by walking through a garden at ground level, rather than navigating court-like steps. The existing building’s form was simplified into two distinct blocks, each clad in white pleated aluminum. Combined with the new double-volume lobby block, this redesign offers a more refined and cohesive facade. The use of red brick flooring, which extends from the exterior into the main lobby, reinforces the connection to the garden, rectifying the previous disconnection.

In the library, anthropological content is thoughtfully integrated into the space. Exhibitions are interwoven with the existing environment. While much of the existing furniture was retained, select items like old bookshelves were given new craft-inspired skins and repurposed as exhibition displays. The removal of a security room that obstructed access to the institute has further opened the space. This meticulous renovation weaves the library into the visitor's journey, transforming it into a continuous narrative that eloquently tells the story of humanity.

Although Phase 1 has been completed, progress has stalled. Exhibition rooms remain in anticipation of further revitalization. This predicament reflects a broader challenge in Thailand, where support for such institutions is regrettably scarce. The reality is that the entire building requires substantial improvement to reach its full potential. Ultimately, Thailand must allocate a sufficient budget to rebuild and sustain a valuable institution like SAC, ensuring its contributions to anthropological scholarship and public education are fully realized.

Main building