Abstract:
Siam Square is an important commercial center and community of Bangkok. It has major roles in physical, economic, social and cultural aspects. The intense and overuse of the area and the lack of suitable development guidelines, however, have caused several problems and obstacles to the development of the area. This research is aimed at proposing guidelines and redevelopment patterns of Siam Square through urban design process to strengthen the potential of the area, solve the existing problems, and define its future roles and development trends. The urban renewal concept is used here to construct the design framework, which covers three major aspects - physical aspect, activity patterns, and management. In term of physical aspect, the following recommendations are proposed: i) The master plan should maintain the characteristics of open shopping center with horizontal development in combination with vertical development in some suitable zones. Grouping similar activities into zones is also recommended. ii) The existing building with unique architectural styles should be conserved while new buildings should be constructed in appropriate locations. iii) The circulation system should be redesigned so that pedestrian in combination with public transportation plays major role within the area. iv) The outdoor spaces should be redesigned so that more good public spaces are provided and street furniture is organized together with public infrastructure. In term of activity patterns, it is recommended that the balance between the existing activities and the new activities reflecting future roles and development trends of the area is maintained. In term of management, it is recommended that a more professional management system should be introduced. More partnerships among all parties should be established along with the more efficient and reasonable renting system. In addition, this research also suggests a preliminary redevelopment framework for Siam Square. This is includes investment pattern, phasing, and initial benefits of the project.