Thairath Online
Thairath Online

Explore Bangkok Design Week 2026: Must-Visit Iconic Malls and Historic Districts for Art Lovers

Life01 Feb 2026 13:07 GMT+7

Share article

Explore Bangkok Design Week 2026: Must-Visit Iconic Malls and Historic Districts for Art Lovers

A roundup of must-visit locations for Bangkok Design Week 2026 (BKKDW2026) under the theme DESIGN S/O/S, marking photo-worthy landmarks inside and outside shopping malls across Bangkok for art enthusiasts and working adults alike.

Bangkok Design Week 2026 returns to transform the city into a playground for creatives once again under the theme “DESIGN S/O/S” from 29 January to 8 February 2026. If you're looking for beautiful photo spots or want to recharge your work inspiration, get your camera ready—we have gathered top locations both inside malls and in public spaces for you.

Introducing the concept DESIGN S/O/S: When design is the way out.

For 2026, Bangkok Design Week (BKKDW2026) presents design as more than aesthetics; it is a tool for problem-solving and building a sustainable future. The focus rests on three pillars: establishing new domestic market standards (Secure Domestic), creating international opportunities (Outreach Opportunities), and preparing for a sustainable future.

Pinpointing 4 main districts: highlights for art lovers and photography enthusiasts.

This year’s events are spread across more than 15 districts throughout Bangkok. If time is limited, we recommend four key districts guaranteed to offer beautiful photo opportunities.

1. Charoenkrung - Talad Noi: The festival’s core.

ภาพจากเพจ Bangkok Design Week

  • The flagship district hosting the largest collection of installation art.
  • Highlights include digital projection mapping at the Central Post Office in Bang Rak and artworks inside the historic The Corner House building (Chai Phatthanasin).
  • Recommended activity: Wander through Talad Noi’s alleys to photograph street art and discover exhibitions hidden inside old houses.

2. Phra Nakhon: Old city charm with a fresh perspective.

  • Highlight: Reinterpreting historic spaces with modern technology around the Giant Swing and Bangkok City Hall.
  • Photo spot: Visit “Rabatsang – New World New Pulse” at New World Mall (from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m.), a light show transforming the abandoned mall into a cutting-edge art space.

3. Pak Khlong Talat: The never-sleeping flower garden.

  • Highlights: Flower Garden 02 exhibition and the Farm to Table x WoodyWind project blending floral paintings with the architecture of vintage shophouses.
  • Ideal for those who love floral colors and want soft, delicate photo styles.

4. Banglamphu - Khaosan: A creative playground for the new generation.

ภาพจากเพจ Bangkok Design Week

  • Highlight: The restoration of Banglamphu canal through design work and exhibitions at the Banglamphu Museum.
  • Activities: Take a boat tour or join the Bike Bus cycling route to explore the city from unique viewpoints.

BKKDW2026 highlights: Must-visit “shopping malls” art checkpoints.

For those wanting to avoid the midday sun or shop while enjoying art, visit these locations.

1. EM DISTRICT (Emsphere, EmQuartier, Emporium)

Concept: Something to Stay___On

  • Highlight: This year, EM District reinforces its Art District image by hosting 17 teams from 11 universities showcasing unlimited creativity.
  • Must-see: Large-scale installation art using local materials interpreting sustainability, displayed throughout Emsphere mall. Fans of experimental design and young creators should not miss this.
  • Best for: Those who enjoy cutting-edge art and futuristic photo atmospheres.

2. Siam Paragon

Concept: Experience world-class art in the heart of Siam.

  • Highlights: View paintings by world-renowned artist Jean-Paul Decroix at Art Jewel on the 5th floor; marvel at a glass chandelier from global brand LASVIT at Arena of Arts on floor M; revisit childhood with the "Carousel" artwork by Saran Yenpanya on the north side of floor M.
  • Must-see: Digital art innovations at SCBX NEXT TECH on the 5th floor and the Blooming Phenomenon showcasing nature’s beauty on The Globe screen at NEXTOPIA on floors 5 and 5A.
  • Best for: Art lovers who appreciate the blend of digital technology and art.

3. SIAM DISCOVERY

Concept: Discovery of Art & Sustainability

  • Highlights: “MONOLIFE” exhibition by artist MR. HALFMAN on the 3rd floor (ODS), presenting a powerful black-and-white world; and “MY PAWFECT BUDDIES” by artist PNK.FF on the 1st floor (PAW LAB).
  • Must-see: Pop-up store featuring adorable pet characters that have jumped off the canvas into the mall—perfect for pet lovers to capture photos.
  • Best for: Youth drawn to cute themes and those who enjoy unique line art.

4. SIAM CENTER

Concept: Sabai Siam (Relaxed Siam)

  • Highlight: The Atrium 1 on ground floor is transformed into an Art Community Market in collaboration with renowned galleries Street Star and ME ART.
  • Must-see: Art Showcase zone featuring Thai street and pop art, alongside a craft market where visitors can not only admire but also purchase works.
  • Best for: Art shoppers and those who enjoy a creative market atmosphere in the city center.

5. SEACON SQUARE (Srinakarin)

Concept: Unfinished Ideas

  • Highlight: The “Mun Mun Srinakarin” (MUNx2) zone is revamped into an experimental idea space featuring 32 exhibitions from partners like CEA and BACC.
  • Must-see: UN-Seed zone simulating the moment ideas spark in the brain, and UN-Form, an immersive digital art installation allowing interaction with idea shapes.
  • Best for: Residents of Thonburi/Srinakarin and those who love interactive art with deep storytelling.

6. CENTRALWORLD & CENTRAL PARK

Concept: Design for Neighborhood

  • Highlight: Showcasing design connected to urban lifestyles and green space development.
  • Must-see: Large-scale installations at CentralWorld plaza, a landmark spot perfect for photos both day and night.
  • Best for: Photo enthusiasts seeking iconic check-in spots and families wanting convenient access to art events.

7. One Bangkok

Concept: Sound, Art, Architecture

ภาพจากเพจ Bangkok Design Week

  • Highlight: One Bangkok Park becomes a chic pop-up sound studio featuring DJs and live performances on weekends; The Storeys Gallery presents Green Craft × Life Aesthetics × Local Culture, blending local crafts with modern technology.
  • Must-see: Young Architect Conference (YAC 2025-2026), showcasing works from over 121 emerging architects.
  • Ideal for: Music lovers, content creators seeking novelty, and anyone inspired by sustainable design.

Highlights for working professionals to check in for a mental boost.

  • Light and color exhibition at Montien Surawong Hotel: The Palace of Food and Cultures runs from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m., an ideal spot for after-work strolls.
  • Cycling and boat routes: This year features boat tours along historic Banglamphu and Ong Ang canals, offering city views from new perspectives.

Bangkok Design Week 2026 is more than an art show; it proves creativity can drive urban progress. Whether you’re a social media photo enthusiast or a professional seeking fresh ideas, this festival is a must-visit early 2026 destination.