Snøhetta creates "Thailand's largest elevated lawn" at Cloud 11 creative hub

Cloud 11 creative hub in Bangkok by Snøhetta and A49 Architects

A public park is the centrepiece of Cloud 11, a creative hub in Bangkok, Thailand, recently completed by architecture studio Snøhetta with local firm A49 Architects.

Set to open in the South Sukhumvit innovation district in March, the 250,000-square-metre complex is intended to bring together creative companies and entrepreneurs in the capital.

It takes the form of a large glazed volume raised above a central courtyard, which is open to the public and incorporates what Snøhetta said is "Thailand's largest elevated lawn".

Cloud 11 is an urban regeneration project created with A49 Architects for local property developer Magnolia Quality Development Corporation (MQDC).

Its design responds to the lack of public green space in Bangkok, which equates to less than seven square metres per resident, and issues of rising heat, air pollution and flooding.

Alongside the lawn, the central courtyard is made up of pocket parks and elevated gardens, intended to filter air, minimise heat and support biodiversity in the area.

Bangkok skyline — It takes the form of a large glazed volume

"Cloud 11 represents a transformative vision for sustainable urban regeneration," said Snøhetta managing director Richard Wood.

"It presents an innovative adaptation model designed for Bangkok and other cities in the region, where environmental resilience is embedded into the urban fabric through an inclusive cultural park that will nurture both social and ecological synergy."

Cloud 11 is described by Snøhetta as a "horizontal landmark", with a layered composition that draws on Bangkok's shophouse streets, elevated skytrain lines, and emerging high-rise towers.

It incorporates a mix of residential, working, and leisure facilities, including studios, hotels, market halls and eateries.

The main courtyard is positioned between a tower and a podium to provide shading, and elevated above ground to prevent flooding.

Its giant lawn is intended for "everyday recreation" but can also be used as a venue for festivals and performances. Alongside it are sports courts and playgrounds, in addition to therapy gardens and areas for rest.

"By clustering these active, playful, and mindful zones, the design fosters intergenerational and intercultural exchange," said Snøhetta.

Cloud 11 is complete with green roofs, shaded walkways and accessible circulation routes, as well as bespoke seating made from wood and recycled plastic.

Natural ventilation is prioritised throughout the building to reduce energy demand, while a stormwater system includes porous pavements and bioswales.