Architecture & History of the Mahanakhon Tower

The King Power Mahanakhon is called a pixelated masterpiece because of its striking design by architect Ole Scheeren. Instead of a smooth exterior design, the tower features cuboid cutouts which look like digital pixels that wrap around the building. 

These shapes form terraces and balconies, which give residents as well as visitors open-air spaces with views of Bangkok and the Chao Phraya River. The pixelated design also lets in more natural light inside while creating variety in living spaces. Its “unfinished” look makes the building appear dynamic and modern, which makes it stand out from typical skyscrapers.

Mahanakhon is the vision of architect Ole Scheeren, who designed it to merge Bangkok’s urban energy with modern vertical living. His idea was not to build a closed tower but one that connects with the city. 

The pixelated facade reflects this vision by carving out terraces, balconies, and open living areas which blur the boundary between inside and outside. These “pixels” also create dynamic spaces which bring city life upward and offer panoramic views. Moreover, a public plaza and the higher terraces at the base extend this openness, which makes the tower feel like a natural part of the city. 

Mahanakhon is an engineering marvel because its pixelated design required advanced solutions to ensure safety and stability. Large sections of the outer design are carved out, which leave overhanging floors with little direct support. To handle this, engineers built a powerful central core which was supported by 12 mega columns that were connected with strong couplers. 

The unusual shape also increased wind pressure, so structural members were reinforced to reduce sway and keep the tower stable. Moreover, despite being 314 metres tall, it also features a 360-degree observation deck with a glass-floor tray, which was built to withstand heavy loads.

Mahanakhon is called a tower with a story because every part of it reflects a vision. Designed by Ole Scheeren, its pixelated outer design looks like carved-out blocks which create terraces and balconies that bring city life into the tower. Each of the 77 floors has a unique character, which makes it more than just a tall building. 

It was completed in 2016 and capped at a height of 314 metres, which then made it Thailand’s tallest skyscraper. Inside, you can find Ritz-Carlton Residences, a hotel, shops, and dining spaces. At the top, you can visit the SkyWalk with its glass tray, which lets you experience Bangkok from above.

King Power MahaNakhon displays the fusion of luxury and lifestyle by bringing everything into one landmark. It has high-end residences which offer stylish living spaces with world-class views of Bangkok, alongside The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon hotel, which adds a modern vibe for guests. 

For unique experiences, the SkyWalk and rooftop bar let visitors enjoy the city from Thailand’s highest observation point. There are fine dining options, shops, and entertainment inside the Mahanakhon CUBE which make it a lifestyle hub. Moreover, residents and guests also get to enjoy private pools, a Jacuzzi, and the Orient Express Spa by Guerlain, which turns daily life into a luxurious experience.

At the Mahanakhon SkyWalk, you can enjoy the highest 360-degree views of Bangkok from the 74th-floor indoor observatory. Step out over 300 metres on the glass tray above the ground at the 78th floor for a thrilling experience. 

You can relax with a drink at Bangkok's highest bar called Sky Beach on the rooftop while admiring views of the skyline. Moreover, high-speed elevators can take you up quickly, and interactive exhibits on the lower observation floor help you learn about the building as well as the city.