Nok Pa Usakaney
The Robot Building is an architectural landmark located on Sathorn Road in Bangkok, Thailand. It gained international recognition as one of the “50 Buildings of the 20th Century” by The Museum of Contemporary Art of Los Angeles, solidifying its status as a notable architectural achievement.
Designed by renowned architect Dr. Sumet Jumsai, The Robot Building is an iconic structure that represents a blend of modernism and post-modernism. Dr. Sumet Jumsai described the concept behind the building as moving from the traditional hi-tech approach, which exposed the inner workings of the building’s systems, towards a post-hi-tech concept. Instead of revealing the building’s internal machinery, it uses a robot-like structure as a symbol.
Completed in 1986, the Robot Building stands 20 stories tall, covering an area of 23,506 square meters. Its distinctive features include two antenna-like structures on the top, which serve for communication equipment, and its facade comprises a large conference room and a dining area for bank executives.
The Robot Building became a symbol of Thailand’s transition from later modernism to post-modernism, marking a significant shift in architectural design trends. It’s one of the 20 most outstanding buildings in the country, selected by Docomomo Thai and Docomomo Japan, which are dedicated to preserving modern architecture.
Recently, there have been plans to renovate the Robot Building into a glass structure, sparking discussions about the preservation of architectural heritage in an era where modernist landmarks are being replaced with newer designs.
The Robot Building, with its unique and futuristic appearance, has long been a global icon in Bangkok, attracting international visitors who have marveled at its architectural innovation. It continues to be a symbol of Bangkok’s architectural and cultural evolution, blending the past and the present.
