The Creative Economy Agency hopes to revive the Charoen Krung-Banglamphu area by fostering sustainable creative businesses that support livelihoods, while introducing the Design S/O/S concept—using design as a lifeline and a means for sustainable urban development.
The Creative Economy Agency is preparing to launch Bangkok Design Week 2026 from 29 January to 8 February, themed DESIGN S/O/S. This theme signals that design is not just about aesthetics but a crucial tool for creating pathways to survival for Thai cities and businesses.
Pichit Weerangkabut, Deputy Director of the Creative Economy Agency, revealed that the 2026 event reflects the tangible success of the creative economy model. Looking back to 2017, Charoen Krung had barely enough restaurants to accommodate visitors, but now...Charoen Krung districthas transformed into a vibrant new business hub.
This year, the Creative Economy Agency is focusing on four main Bangkok districts: Charoen Krung-Talad Noi, Pak Khlong Talat, Phra Nakhon, and Banglamphu-Khao San, along with other creative neighborhoods citywide. They expect over 400,000 attendees during the 11-day event, with collaboration from designers across 17 countries.
The core of Design S/O/S is to shift from a temporary event into a sustainable "business platform." The main goal isn’t just to boost sales during the festival but to generate orders afterward by pairing designers with traditional local shops to help Thai products grow long-term.
One highlight to watch is LongiPark at Captain Bush Alley, defined as a public experimental space beyond just a photo spot. Organizers intend for visitors to spend time there so they can gather data on urban behaviors and needs, which will inform future space development that truly meets practical demands.
Additionally, the BKK Book District project connects areas like Phra Athit, Wang Burapha, Nakhon Kasem, Fueang Nakhon, Sao Chingcha, Tha Tien, and Nang Loeng within walking distance. This aims to revive reading and learning culture through city planning supportive of these activities, contributing to Bangkok’s push as a UNESCO Creative City.
Although Bangkok Design Week 2026 ends on 8 February, the Creative Economy Agency confirms the event won’t just be dismantled afterward. Many installations and structures are planned to remain permanently within communities so locals can continue using them and sustainably address local spatial challenges.
Mr. Pichit believes Bangkok Design Week 2026 marks a significant milestone, aiming to make Thai design a powerful driving force and a global benchmark that designers worldwide will watch closely.