The design concept for the new Fulbright office is to provide a space that expresses a bright and energetic atmosphere while achieving functional requirements. Rigid limitation of space and budget had to be overcome to add an additional meeting room, multipurpose central area, and vastly improve the workspaces for the 10 employees.

Inspiration:

“We must try to expand the boundaries of human wisdom, empathy, and perception…..”

With the inspiration from Senator J. William Fulbright’s remarks combined with the notion of bi-national cooperation and challenges from the space limit, Ms. Sukamorn has finally turned the TUSEF office into a stunning piece of work!

A space that integrates the idea of openness, continuity and the balance between public yet private is achieved by several means: glass partitions that allow the eyes to continuously move from one space to another, exposing the ceiling for a more open effect, continuity of materials that flow through different spaces, mid level partitions for

each workstation, and repetition of lines from lights and architectural elements.

A “blur” between Thailand and the United States is symbolized through an architectural feature on the entrance wall. The feature incorporates linear planes of clear, frosted and red white and blue color glass installed in layers to resemble flags from both countries.

Completed, the intended new, alive, welcoming, friendly yet evoking, and enthusiastic atmosphere for the foundation is hopefully successfully achieved.

Ms. Sukamorn is a Fulbrighter, graduated in 2003 with a Master of Interior Architecture (Hons.) from the Rhode Island School of Design. She generously offered to assist in the renovation of the TUSEF office. The work has indeed drawn admirations from most, if not all, the visitors.