foster + partners to complete phase one of 'mulberry grove villas' this summer

‘mulberry grove villas’ and clubhouse by foster + partners

Construction work continues on ‘Mulberry Grove Villas’, an integral part of ‘The Forestias’ masterplan situated on the outskirts of Bangkok. Designed by Foster + Partners through its local entity F&P (Thailand) Ltd, the masterplan was initially unveiled in 2021 as a nature-infused proposal inspired by traditional courtyard Thai houses. The ‘Mulberry Grove Villas’ takes shape as cluster-home residences for multi-generational families, combining flexibility and transparency to create a residential typology designed for Thai society. The timber clubhouse and three villas are now complete, with another five units scheduled for completion later this summer, marking the end of the development’s first phase.

‘We are delighted to see construction progressing on site. The development connects residents with nature and emphasizes horizontal spatial connections that are not usually possible within a typical home. The villas work individually or can be grouped together in clusters of up to six, allowing larger families to combine multiple units to create their own private enclaves,’ comments Sunphol Sorakul, Partner at Foster + Partners.

all images © Weerapon Singnoi

recalling traditional thai houses

The ground level of ‘Mulberry Grove Villas’ includes both storage and ancillary spaces, with an entrance hall for lift access. The rest of the site is landscaped, with the main living areas lifted off the ground, akin to traditional Thai houses. These key spaces benefit from better ventilation above the tree canopy and are protected against flooding during the tropical monsoon season.

The main entrance leads to the first floor, centered around an expansive courtyard and overlooked by the family lounge and dining areas. Large sliding doors open to the outdoors, where a veranda encloses the space on all sides. ‘The courtyard is a key element of traditional Thai houses that connects the different rooms. It is a shared space that can accommodate a wide range of uses – and plays an important environmental role by drawing cool air through the house,’ writes the practice.

‘Mulberry Grove Villas’ are inspired by traditional Thai courtyard houses

Moreover, the absence of walls around the courtyard allows everyone in the family to be a part of a collective. This sense of connection extends to the grandparents’ room on the main floor, where direct views to the family lounge unfold; a family suite and the master bedroom on the upper floor overlook this lounge area. Several folding screens also help create a flexible division of spaces throughout the day.

Meanwhile, the clubhouse situated at the heart of the development takes shape as an arched timber structure composed of 56 glulam beams. Its extended eaves shelter residents from the elements, and rainwater quickly drains away off the roof for collection. Complementing the timber volume is a central skylight bringing light deep into the building, and high ceilings for better ventilation. The clubhouse further connects with a private pool and steps down towards the forest to reveal spectacular views of the natural landscape. Lastly, the architects incorporated a flexible space occupied by a gym, play areas for children, meeting rooms, co-working spaces, and a library. The second phase of the development will see the completion of all villas across the site.

emerging as a cluster of volumes