Learning from Bangkok: an Urban Design Trip Journal

As I stepped off the plane into the warm (I would say hot) Don Mueang Airport a couple of weeks ago, I felt a familiarity between Bangkok and Jakarta. My trip to Bangkok, initially planned as a quick meeting with a partner, quickly turned into a captivating exploration of the city’s urban design development. Walking through the lively streets and observing the seamless blend of tradition and modernity, I couldn't help but think of Jakarta and its immense potential.

If you have ever strolled through the bustling streets of Bangkok, you might have noticed something unique about the city's approach to urban design. With its seamless integration of pedestrian pathways, public and private spaces, and a clever way of using waterways, Bangkok offers a treasure trove of ideas that can be incredibly valuable for cities like Jakarta. This article delves into five key urban design strategies Bangkok employs that could inspire Jakarta to enhance its urban environment and strengthen its status as a global economic hub.

Three-Dimensional Seamless Movement of Pedestrians

Bangkok has truly mastered the art of pedestrian mobility in the city center. The city's intricate network of skywalks and street-level walkways ensures pedestrians can move seamlessly across various dimensions. Imagine navigating a city without the constant interruption of traffic lights or the dangers of jaywalking. This three-dimensional approach does not only improve safety, but also enhances the overall pedestrian experience, making it easier and more enjoyable to explore the city on foot.

For Jakarta, adopting a similar strategy could be transformative. By developing an interconnected system of pedestrian pathways, the city could significantly reduce traffic congestion and promote a healthier, more active lifestyle among its residents. This approach could also attract tourists, providing them with a safe and pleasant way to discover the city's many attractions.

This solution can be a workable strategy for Jakarta since the massive use of private transportation especially motorcycles can cause uncomfortable interface with pedestrians.

Integration of Public and Private Spaces

Bangkok's urban design seamlessly blends the interface of public and private spaces, creating vibrant areas and shaping the city’s streetscape. From bustling markets to serene parks and plazas, the city offers a variety of spaces that cater to different needs and activities. This integration not only maximizes the use of available land but also fosters a sense of community and belonging.

In Jakarta, the incorporation of mixed-use developments and the thoughtful design of public spaces could lead to a more dynamic urban environment. By encouraging collaboration between public and private sectors, the city could create multifunctional areas that serve both residents and businesses, enhancing the overall quality of urban life.

Utilizing Waterways for Connectivity and Urban Identity

 One of Bangkok's most distinctive features is its extensive network of canals and rivers, which play a crucial role in the city's connectivity and identity. These waterways are used for transportation, recreation, and even as scenic backdrops for urban development. The Chao Phraya River, for instance, is a lifeline for the city, providing an alternative mode of transport and a picturesque setting for various activities, especially tourism.

Jakarta, with its network of rivers and canals, could take a leaf out of Bangkok's book by revitalizing its waterways. Developing water-based transport options and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of these areas could not only ease traffic congestion but also create unique urban spaces that reflect the city's cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Emphasizing Cultural Richness

Thailand's cultural richness is one of Bangkok's greatest strengths. The city's urban design celebrates this heritage, incorporating traditional elements into modern developments. From intricately designed temples to contemporary architecture that draws inspiration from Thai culture, Bangkok offers a unique blend of old and new.

For Jakarta, emphasizing its cultural heritage could be a powerful tool in urban development. By highlighting traditional art, architecture, and customs, the city can create a distinctive identity that sets it apart on the global stage. This approach can attract tourists and investors alike, showcasing Jakarta as a city that values and preserves its unique cultural heritage while embracing modernity.

Enhancing Urban Mobility through Public Transportation

Bangkok’s traffic is similar to Jakarta, with a high number of private cars and motorcycle ownership, the rush hour traffic can trap you for hours in the middle of the traffic. In this area, Bangkok's emerging public transportation system is where the city excels. With a developing network of buses, trains, and boats, getting around Bangkok is relatively easy and efficient. The BTS Skytrain and MRT subway systems, in particular, have revolutionized urban mobility, providing fast and reliable options for commuting across the city.

Jakarta, with its growing population and increasing traffic challenges, could benefit greatly from a well-connected public transportation system. By investing in infrastructure and expanding transit options, the city can improve accessibility, reduce traffic congestion, and promote sustainable urban growth. Lessons from Bangkok's transit-oriented development could guide Jakarta in creating a more efficient and user-friendly public transportation network.

Taking Lessons from Bangkok

As Jakarta continues to evolve and strive for a position as a global economic hub, there is much to learn from Bangkok's urban design strategies. The socio-economic similarities between the two cities make Bangkok an ideal case study for Jakarta. By adopting and adapting these innovative approaches, Jakarta can enhance its urban environment, improve the quality of life for its residents, and attract global attention.

In conclusion, Bangkok's seamless pedestrian pathways, integration of public and private spaces, utilization of waterways, celebration of cultural richness, and efficient public transportation system offer valuable lessons for Jakarta. By studying and implementing these strategies, Jakarta can pave the way for a more sustainable, vibrant, and globally competitive urban future.

Even though Bangkok is not a perfect city, it serves as a commendable example from which Jakarta can draw inspiration. Learning from our one-step-ahead neighbor can provide Jakarta with the insights needed to tackle its unique challenges and develop into a thriving metropolis.

Kop khun krap,

Aryo Kuncoro