HJL cafe (housing for construction workers renovation)
architectural design, interior design

2021-2022
Loei, Thailand

Built to accommodate workers during the construction period of a hotel, this existing building is located at the site's perimeter, adjacent to the water tank tower. After the hotel opened, the tower was transformed into an observation tower providing guests with a view of the hotel’s botanical garden and the mountainous landscape of Loei. The tower has become a new attraction, so, the former workers’ housing was planned to be turned into another magnet.

Apart from refurbishing the existing building, the design proposes a new separated structure. A pergola covering the existing building serves as a shading device, camouflaging the building by blending in with the surrounding garden and the observation tower. Underneath, the flower tunnel creates covered walkways and patio space for semi-outdoor seating. This emphasises the owner’s intention for the guests to appreciate and connect to nature.