From tens of thousands of entries from around the world, 100 aspiring designers, architects, DIYers and makers hailing from more than 20 countries and regions have been chosen to bring their crazy space ideas to life as part of the US$10,000,000 (approx. THB390 million) OMG! Fund, including two from Thailand.
The winning ideas stood out for their unique and inspiring design, sustainable consideration, and novel ways of offering immersive guest experiences. Recipients will each receive up to US$100,000 (approx THB3.8 million) to make their fantastical creations possible, and over the course of the next ten months, will design, construct and outfit their spaces to be guest-ready by June 2023 – when you may find them available as part of Airbnb’s OMG! Category.
The tens of thousands of entries drew inspiration from the depths of the sea to sci-fi novels, but certain natural elements and architectural features proved popular. And a Liveable Giant Coconut made from Mud and Coconut Coir by Abhi Agarwal was one of the two winning entries from Thailand that caught the judges’ eye.
To be built with locally sourced building materials, utilizing environmentally friendly construction methods and employing local artisans and builders to support the local economy, the Cocohut in Chiang Mai will provide guests with the ultimate slow life experience.
“We wanted to create something where guests could experience life on a production farm and be involved in the process of growing and harvesting food, from tasting fruits and vegetables that are grown right outside their window to experiencing all the fresh bounties that the tropical climate has to offer,” shared Agarwal. “A lot of Thai cuisine has been centered around the coconut tree and so we wanted to offer guests the experience of living inside a coconut.”
Tapping into Thailand’s music scene and Bangkok’s popularity as an entertainment hotspot, Thailand’s second winner Jérémie Jean-Ferdinand Maret, plans to build a solar-powered DJ Booth Tower Mini Duplex in the heart of iconic Khaosan Road. “Our aim is to offer an immersive nightlife experience and sanctuary in the middle of the action. Guests will have the chance to reside in the courtyard of the Mischa Cheap Club directly beneath the DJ booth with soundproof and mirror windows to look outside, but not inside!”
For those interested in earning extra income by hosting their homes on Airbnb, find out how at airbnb.com/host/homes.
