A car is simply a room on wheels, right? Or that’s what the oversimplified definition of a car is… by that very standard, all car companies might as well be architecture firms; and it seems like Porsche may be taking that theory rather seriously. The automotive marque has unveiled plans for a residential building in Bangkok, its first in Asia, following previous ventures in Miami, USA and Stuttgart, Germany. This new development is a collaborative effort between Porsche Design (carmaker’s luxury goods sub-brand) and Ananda Development, with the aim of creating an ultra-luxury living experience in the heart of Thailand’s bustling capital. Standing 95 meters tall, the 21-story tower is set to feature 22 exclusive duplex and quadplex apartments, each promising to embody the essence of Porsche’s design philosophy.
Designer: Porsche Design
The tower’s design is as striking as one would expect from a brand synonymous with cutting-edge automotive design. The building’s facade is sleek and modern, with a spiral ramp at its center, reminiscent of the winding roads often navigated by Porsche’s high-performance vehicles. This ramp not only serves as a striking architectural feature but also leads to communal garages within the building, which Porsche has aptly named “passion spaces.” These garages are designed to be more than just parking spaces; they are envisioned as social hubs where residents can display their car collections and interact with fellow automobile enthusiasts.
You wouldn’t expect a company like Porsche to simply build a residential complex without flexing a bit of innovation and engineering, right? Well, arguably one of the most innovative features of the Porsche Design Tower Bangkok is its fully automated terrace door system. This system is inspired by the retractable roof mechanism of the Porsche 911 Targa and allows for a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living. The doors fold and hinge open from the top, creating an expansive terrace space that effortlessly extends the living area of each apartment. This feature is not only a nod to Porsche’s heritage but also a practical solution for enhancing the living experience in a tropical climate.
In addition to the unique architectural and design elements, the tower will also offer a range of luxurious amenities. Residents will have access to a 25-meter swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a spa, and both social and business lounges. These amenities are designed to cater to the lifestyle needs of Porsche’s discerning clientele, providing them with spaces to relax, socialize, and conduct business without ever having to leave the building.
The Porsche Design Tower Bangkok is set to break ground in early 2025, with completion expected by the end of 2028. This project is part of a growing trend among luxury car brands to expand their influence into the real estate market, offering their customers not just a product, but a complete lifestyle experience. It does fall in line with an overall trend to move away from just mobility and focus on different aspects of life too, like with Tesla and its Powerwall, solar-panel roof tiles, etc.
