An exploration of light on the mighty Chao Phraya River

The Chao Phraya has long been the lifeblood of Bangkok; the waterway serving as a key route for both trade and transport, a source of food and an embodiment of spiritual energy. Its turbulent waters are broken into a myriad of reflective surfaces, a shimmering patchwork of light dancing to the rhythm of the Thai capital.

Mae Nam (Mother water) by Haberdashery explores these surfaces across a collection of over 100 gold, copper and silver contoured forms composed over more than 60 metres, opening out into a 30m high atrium whose glass facade faces the mighty river. Inspired by the delicate shapes and curves found in Thailand’s rich art and cultural history, these forms create patterns of light as you move around the sculpture echoing the energy of the body of water which flows through the city.

Commissioned by: Siam Piwat
Architecture: Foster+Partners, Benoy, Urban Architect Co., Ltd