Identity Design for Infrastructure Projects
At OPENBOX Architects, we have long believed that alternative and sustainable energy is the foundation of future development. Energy consumption remains one of the largest operating costs in any business system, and reducing it offers immense long-term value. Although numerous certifications and awards encourage the use of renewable energy, actual implementation is still limited. Too often, it is seen as a corporate social responsibility initiative rather than a real solution for the planet’s future.
Turning Infrastructure into Identity
One of the biggest challenges in sustainable design is that energy infrastructure is often invisible—functional but not memorable. Traditionally, it has lacked the visual appeal and emotional power to tell a compelling story. This is precisely where OPENBOX Architects introduces the concept of Identity Design for Infrastructure Projects.
For several years, we have explored this idea through our own projects, including our OPENBOX Garden Office, where integrated solar panels now supply more than 70% of daily electricity consumption. What began as a personal passion has evolved into a defining direction for our firm—one that will help shape the next generation of sustainable architecture, from Zero-Energy Villages to Zero-Energy Cities.
Since 2017, we have partnered with leading companies in the clean-energy sector to merge architectural creativity with technological innovation, transforming energy systems into iconic, meaningful landmarks.
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‘Saving the World is a good cause,
That deserves great recognitions,
And deserves a great IDENTITY DESIGN ’
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Icon Siam Solar Roof Project
Our first major design intervention took place at Icon Siam, where we designed a solar-roof structure located in a highly visible urban area surrounded by high-rises. Instead of viewing it purely as engineering infrastructure, we reimagined it as a piece of dynamic architectural art.
Through intensive study of conventional solar-panel installation methods, our team developed creative enhancements—varying panel colors, trimming tones, and installation angles—to create a more aesthetic and iconic expression without increasing budget. This innovative approach demonstrated that even within technical limitations, design can add real value. As a result, B.Grimm Power was awarded the commission, showing that identity and creativity are worthy investments in every field of design.
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Phu Yen Solar Power Plant, Vietnam
The second initiative, located at Phu Yen, is the largest solar farm in Southeast Asia. Typically, such facilities occupy vast open land and require minimal staffing. However, OPENBOX Architects envisioned transforming it into a space that would also benefit the community.
Following extensive research, we integrated educational and tourism functions into the project:
- A distinctive gateway and entry experience that sets a welcoming tone.
- Conversion of a technical maintenance office into a visitor reception area and exhibition gallery.
- A touring route through the solar-panel fields, designed to highlight the visual beauty of clean energy.
- A viewing deck atop a natural hill, crowned by an elliptical walkway offering panoramic views of the solar farm and surrounding mountain ranges.
The landscape is covered in native wild grass for erosion control and to celebrate the environmental innovations championed by King Rama IX. Accents of terracotta orange, the color of B.Grimm Power’s identity, symbolize progress and optimism.
This project seamlessly combines education, technology, and sustainability, earning the Phu Yen Solar Power Plant Award in 2019 and marking another success in our Integrated Exploration journey toward sustainable energy design.
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B.Grimm Power Headquarters Sculpture
Building on this success, B.Grimm Power invited OPENBOX Architects to design a landmark for their headquarters—an artistic structure to promote public awareness of renewable energy.
We proposed a solar-paneled parking roof that functions both as infrastructure and sculpture. The 50-meter-long structure, supported by only two columns and a grand cantilever, reveals its steel skeleton as a celebration of engineering aesthetics. Beneath the structure, touches of terracotta orange express B.Grimm Power’s corporate identity.
Visible from the main road, this sculptural piece captures the attention of every passerby. More than a visual landmark, it symbolizes the union of engineering and art, representing the belief that technology and creativity must coexist as one to build a sustainable future.
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