As part of the nation’s largest private sector property development project, The Forestias, Magnolia Quality Development Corporation (MQDC) has introduced a groundbreaking addition – The HAPPITAT. Boasting an array of diverse activities designed to entertain, educate, and enrich the lives of visitors, The HAPPITAT ushers in a unique fusion of real and virtual experiences, blurring the lines between physical and digital environments.
Ms Orada Kerdhong, President – Storied Place, MQDC, expressed her excitement about the innovative concept of The HAPPITAT, a pioneering venture in destination development. “The HAPPITAT,” she explained, “is designed to create a year-round calendar of experiences that are as new and exciting as your first visit, regardless of how many times you’ve been before.”
The destination, sprawling across nine hectares within The Forestias, is composed of diverse landscapes, from a 4.8-hectare forest at its heart to cityscapes near its entrance. This rich tableau has gardens, parade grounds, and hundreds of shops. Cultural, social, and learning facilities pepper the layout, offering entertainment options that range from a science museum to a theatre.
The master plan for The HAPPITAT was drawn up by world-renowned destination planning and entertainment experts. The aim was to create a journey that moves visitors from bustling city life to a serene natural environment, blending the best urban and rural experiences.
According to Ms Kerdhong, the journey is designed to offer “multiple magical experiences throughout,” with the potential for integrating mixed virtual reality in the future. These enhancements will provide entertainment, learning opportunities, and commercial avenues for HAPPITAT’s partners.
Geared towards family involvement, the facilities within The HAPPITAT aim to cater to every member across multiple generations. Social and cultural facilities such as a 4,000 square meter theatre, event spaces, a plaza, and avenues for parades and events will provide a dynamic, vibrant atmosphere that transforms everyday places into unforgettable locales.
The HAPPITAT aspires to be one of the first destinations worldwide to harmonize space, events, and the virtual world into a comprehensive, exceptional experience. “Our goal is to facilitate quality family time, whether through dining, leisure, health and wellness, or entertainment activities,” said Ms Kerdhong. “Moreover, with the integration of mixed virtual reality, we can transform learning about nature and interacting with animals through augmented reality.”
The Forestias will extend into the digital sphere through its virtual twin, the ‘Idyllias’ universe, as part of the Translucia platform. Developed by T&B Media Global (Thailand) Co., Ltd., Translucia presents infinite metaverses for digital exploration, broadening the potential for engaging, immersive experiences.
Overseen by Mr Kittiphun Ouiyamaphun, MQDC’s President responsible for The Forestias development, the HAPPITAT project represents an investment of approximately US$ 500 million. Construction and preparations for this ambitious venture are about 70% complete.
Located in Bangkok’s thriving Eastern Economic Corridor, The Forestias dedicates an impressive 56% of its area to green space, providing a lush, tranquil oasis amidst urban development. Apart from the HAPPITAT, The Forestias houses a range of residential properties, two hotels, and wellness facilities, promising a holistic lifestyle experience.
With its pioneering approach, The HAPPITAT seems set to revolutionize destination development, setting a precedent for blending real and virtual experiences to enhance, educate, and entertain. This dynamic venture is set to create a magical journey for all who visit, redefining our understanding of the destination experience.
Written by: Supaporn Pholrach (Joom)
