House of Wisdom (H.O.W) is an invite-only space in Southeast Asia, fostering continuous learning and growth through flexible, art-integrated design and sustainable practices, inspiring emerging leaders across various fields.
House of Wisdom (H.O.W) is an exclusive space and platform dedicated to emerging leaders across Southeast Asia who are committed to continuous learning and personal growth in a rapidly evolving world. With a focus on fostering wisdom and creativity, H.O.W provides a nurturing environment where members find inspiration and opportunities for learning across diverse topics such as business, technology, AI, finance, arts, and music.
To accommodate H.O.W’s wide range of events and activities while inspiring the next generation of leaders, the design prioritises flexibility and multipurpose functionality, integrating evocative art pieces to enhance the space’s aesthetic appeal. The primary challenge in designing the space lay in seamlessly integrating areas intended for multiple activities while maintaining exclusivity and control over member-only and public areas. Ensuring flexibility and a clear sense of distinctiveness was crucial in making the space feel comfortable for all users.
The design approach focused on creating a flexible and multipurpose space capable of accommodating various events such as talks, workshops, knowledge-sharing sessions, and networking nights, while also providing a productive environment for members to use for co-working or meeting with their clients and partners. Additionally, an emphasis was placed on delivering an elegant experience for members, ensuring that every aspect of the space exuded sophistication and refinement.
Inspired by the owners’ passion for art, carefully curated art collections throughout the space evoke the ambiance of an art gallery, enhancing its distinctive character and aesthetic appeal. The space showcases a masculine palette of greyish tones, timber, and dark metallic accents, infusing each area with sophistication. Art isn’t merely hung on the walls but is integrated into the ceilings and walls, creating a three-dimensional effect that adds depth and texture to the space.
Incorporating sustainable practices, the existing structure was repurposed, and cradle-to-cradle materials were utilised, minimising waste and environmental impact. The entrance, marked by minimalist stone cladding and programmable lighting that can be customised for different colours, sets the tone for a refined experience. The Front Room, or main reception area, seamlessly merges art with architecture, blurring the lines between decor and structure.
The Hall, a versatile area that doubles as an art gallery and events space, features custom lighting to enhance the ambiance and highlight the artworks, giving it a three-dimensional look and feel. The Living Room, primarily used for talks and events, includes flexible furniture that can easily adapt to accommodate small or large group gatherings. The Parlour serves a similar purpose but provides a more intimate setting for smaller groups.
The Library, adorned with bookshelves showcasing member-contributed books, offers a cosy retreat for reading and networking, with a bar area aptly named the Library Bar. This space can easily transition into a clubbing area, showcasing the adaptability of the design to cater to diverse member needs.
H.O.W is more than just a physical space; it is a community and a platform for growth, creativity, and innovation. By creating a space that balances sophistication with functionality, H.O.W ensures that members have the resources and inspiration needed to thrive in their personal and professional endeavours. The careful design and thoughtful amenities reflect its commitment to nurturing the potential of its members, making it a beacon of wisdom and creativity in Southeast Asia.
Project: House of Wisdom
Size: 10,764 sqft
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Design Studio: Paperspace
Photo Credit: Kan Kankavee
Website: paperspace.asia