Renowned Architect Kulthida Songkittipakdee Appointed to the Jury for the Grands Prix du Design Award

The world of architecture and design has been revolutionized by countless talented individuals, and among them stands Kulthida Songkittipakdee, a distinguished architect and professor who has made significant contributions to the profession through the Thai firm Jenchieh Hung + Kulthida Songkittipakdee / HAS design and research, widely known as HAS design and research. Alongside the versatile architect and professor Jenchieh Hung, Kulthida Songkittipakdee’s expertise and innovative approach to architecture have earned her prestigious positions, including on the jury of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) – RIBA International Awards: Asia Pacific Awards and the jury of The Association of Siamese Architects (ASA) – ASA Experimental Design Competition Awards. 

Recently, she was appointed as a jury member for the Grands Prix du Design Award from Canada, one of the most respected design accolades globally. The Grands Prix du Design Award recognizes outstanding achievements in design across various fields, celebrating excellence in creativity, functionality, and aesthetic value. As a globally renowned architect and educator, Kulthida Songkittipakdee’s appointment to the jury further underscores her reputation as a key figure in shaping the future of architectural design.

She also serves as a lifetime honorary professor at Kunming University of Science and Technology, as well as a guest editor for the Journal of the Architects Regional Council Asia (ARCASIA Journal). She is the first Asian architect to receive the Renzo Piano Foundation scholarship and has worked at the Renzo Piano Building Workshop in Paris. Additionally, she has been appointed chairman of the Thailand ASA Architect Expo in 2024, showcasing her dedication to blending innovation with tradition in Thai contemporary architecture.

Known for her profound contributions to sustainable design practices, Kulthida Songkittipakdee has played a pivotal role in advancing the architectural landscape and education both in Thailand and internationally. She has been a visiting professor at Tongji University, a visiting professor at Chulalongkorn University, and an adjunct/visiting professor at King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, as well as an adjunct professor at World University of Design and dean’s special advisor at Kasetsart University. Her work has influenced generations of aspiring architects, imparting her knowledge and passion for design to the next generation of creators. Her firm, Jenchieh Hung + Kulthida Songkittipakdee / HAS design and research, is renowned for its groundbreaking projects that span diverse architectural styles while embracing sustainability and cultural relevance.

Acclaimed works include the Museum of Modern Aluminum Thailand, Simple Art Museum, Aluminum Grotto and Public Ground, and High Line Bangkok, among many others. These projects highlight her ability to create spaces that are not only functional but also socially and environmentally responsible. Her practice has received recognition in the Wallpaper Architects’ Directory* from the United Kingdom and the Créateurs Design Awards from France.

The firm is also recognized as the first Thai firm in history to win this award, alongside prestigious laureates such as Kazuyo Sejima + Ryue Nishizawa / SANAA from Japan, Norman Foster / Foster + Partners from the United Kingdom, and Jenchieh Hung + Kulthida Songkittipakdee / HAS design and research from Thailand.

As a jury member for the Grands Prix du Design Award, Professor Kulthida Songkittipakdee brings a wealth of experience, a critical eye for design, and a deep understanding of what makes an architectural project truly stand out. Her selection as a juror speaks volumes about her stature in the design world, acknowledging her outstanding contributions to the field and her ability to evaluate projects with professionalism and insight.