Hawker Centre Design from Commercial Building

Abstract

     This study aims to design and develop a business plan for transforming a commercial building into a hawker food center. The selected case study focuses on a commercial building located along the roadside at Lat Phrao Soi 80, Wang Thonglang District, Bangkok. The goal is to create a practical model that addresses existing challenges and facilitates practical business operations by using a Mixed research methods.
     The first phase of the study involved collecting preliminary data from 20 sellers and 20 buyers within the study area, as well as popular markets within a 2.5-kilometer radius (a total of 4 areas). This data was analyzed to identify needs and challenges, forming the foundation for drafting an initial plan and design. Next, the second phase, the preliminary draft was reviewed through interviews with experts and representatives from four stakeholder groups: sellers, buyers, investors, and government agencies. Their feedback informed the refinement of the development process and adjustments to the business plan to ensure its feasibility and effectiveness.
     Analysis drawn from interviews with all four stakeholder groups and the initial business plan revealed that the primary challenge in converting a commercial building into a hawker food center lies in the high renovation costs. Additionally, setting low rents to support low-income hawkers adds to the financial burden. To address this, it is essential to generate supplementary income by leasing advertising spaces within the project. This approach would provide a stable revenue stream, ensuring the project's financial viability and sustainability.
     The primary consideration in designing a hawker food center from a commercial building is its location. Ideally, the site should be near a bus stop, a skytrain station, residential areas, educational institutions, and workplaces, ensuring accessibility and convenience. The building should have strong potential for renovation into a food center, with utility systems already in place to support operations. The interior layout must be open and accessible, allowing easy entry and exit for wheelchairs. Additionally, the interior design should align with user needs and reflect the contextual characteristics of the Wang Thonglang District.
     Based on the researcher’s evaluation of the design and business plan preparation, it was concluded that commercial buildings are well-suited for renovation into hawker food centers. Such a transformation provides a practical solution to address both economic challenges and urban environmental issues.