If you were in Bangkok recently and happened to hear a buzz of excitement filling the city air, it wasn’t just the typical hustle and bustle of the metropolis. It was the vivacious hum from the launch of the Dream Stadium: Paint Your Dream Space project, with none other than Chadchart Sittipunt, the buoyant Governor of Bangkok, at the helm. He presided over the launch and mingled with attendees, truly embodying the spirit of community that this space endeavors to cultivate. The event took place at an urban haven tucked behind the Phahon Yothin expressway toll booth in Soi Phra Nang, within the vibrant Phaya Thai district.
Chadchart, ever the visionary, took this opportunity to reflect on the city he loves. “Bangkok,” Chadchart mused, “is undeniably grand in its stature. Yet, when it comes to quality public spaces, especially for our young, eager minds, we fall short.” It’s a plight many urban residents can relate to—children trapped in the concrete jungle with few venues for sports and recreation. But fear not, for the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is on a mission, spearheaded by Chadchart, to revolutionize local sports grounds. And revolutionize, they have.
With an impressive track record of enhancing 204 sports grounds already, the BMA isn’t stopping there. Enter the 15-Minute Parks initiative—envisaging a city dotted with 500 parks, ensuring that every resident can access quality public spaces with ease. Chadchart’s gratitude knew no bounds as he acknowledged the immense contributions of groups like Think Curve, Big One Group, and the creative genius of artists like ALEX FACE MXRNIES and the dynamic DREAMGRAFF team led by KANAET. These allies, among many more, transformed vision into vibrant reality.
“This,” Chadchart proclaimed with a flourish, “isn’t just a project. It’s a masterpiece. Art meets sport here, nourishing body and soul alike. A city’s true heartbeat isn’t in its skyscrapers but in the art-infused, accessible spaces that bring us together, enriching our community’s well-being.”
Driven by Think Curve, the Dream Stadium project is a love-letter to youthful aspiration. It envisages a Bangkok where the dreams of young athletes are given wings across the city and its neighboring provinces. Having garnered success in its initial seasons, the latest rendition of this project is an even grander tapestry of sport and art. Think Curve, alongside Big One Group and creative art wizards like ALEX FACE MXRNIES and DREAMGRAFF, steered by KANAET, embarked on a journey to rejuvenate and dazzle the Dream Stadium with vibrant hues, with BD Media Solution orchestrating the construction symphony.
And what better muse for artistic inspiration than the legendary Captain Tsubasa? Previous stadium makeovers have drawn from this iconic manga, officially licensed by its creator, Yōichi Takahashi. This anime touch has already sprinkled its magic over several locations, turning them into extraordinary, artful playfields. From Pin Charoen 3 in Don Mueang to the spirited Kudi Chin Community and several more—Bangkok’s athletic venues are evolving into dreamscapes.
This sporting haven isn’t just a canvas of colors; it’s a playground for dreams offering space for futsal, sepak takraw, and basketball. The expansion of such projects isn’t just about space—it’s about creating aspirations and landmarks right in the heart of Phaya Thai, sparking motivation among its youth.
And what’s a grand opening without a basketball match to christen it? The event turned into a thrilling showcase with a friendly 3×3 basketball showdown, starring players from the Thai national team alongside celebrities like Chantavit “Ter” Dhanasevi, Sattaphong “Tao” Phiangphor, and more. These stars teamed with local youth, setting the court ablaze, igniting fervor that rippled through the spectators.
The event saw a kaleidoscope of Bangkok’s community leaders in attendance: Sanon Wangsrangboon, Deputy Governor of Bangkok; Krittikorn Thanamahamongkol, CEO of Think Curve; Pavitra Taswichai, CEO of Big One Group, and a host of others from the bustling spheres of culture, sports, and governance, all lending their presence to a momentous occasion that marked a new era for urban living.
With an emphasis on #GoodSociety and #GoodHealth, projects like the Dream Stadium are at the core of Bangkok’s renaissance, embodying the city’s resolve to harmonize the urban with the artistic. Chadchart’s Bangkok is not just a city—it’s a canvas of dreams come alive.
This Dream Stadium sounds amazing, but can we really trust it will benefit everyone in Bangkok equally? These projects sometimes favor the privileged areas.
I agree. While it’s great news for those living nearby, how accessible is it to those in the outskirts? These initiatives often leave out the less fortunate.
But guys, isn’t the 15-Minute Parks initiative intended to address this exact gap in access? More parks, more places for everyone.
Totally with Joe and Ananya here. Accessibility is always the key issue. Let’s hope they’re addressing that properly.
What an incredible initiative! It’s about time the youth get dedicated spaces to play and express themselves. Kudos to Chadchart!
Absolutely! Encouraging sports and creativity can really nurture the younger generations. Art and sport are underrated.
It all sounds great on paper, but let’s see how well it’s maintained. Projects like this need ongoing investment and care.
As an artist, I love the idea of mixing art with sport. It’s a creative way to inspire young minds!
Seems like a lot of money could have gone into more practical needs. Do we really need another expensive sports complex?
I see your point, but investing in youth engagement might reduce the need for funds in other areas like juvenile rehabilitation.
It’s true to some extent, but doesn’t youth development help in long term stability?
The collaboration with Captain Tsubasa really pulls on the nostalgic heartstrings. A smart move!
I’m excited to see more spaces like these pop up. Hopefully, it brings our community closer together. Joining in on that opening basketball match would have been a dream!
The stadium events could become another community legend, like the night markets. People need inspiring spaces like these.
I’ve seen projects like this start with excitement and fanfare but then fade away. Continuity is key.
That’s often a problem. Once the newness wears off, will we still see such enthusiasm?
It’s true, Tim. Keeping the momentum going requires continuous community engagement. Hopefully, Chadchart’s passion fuels that.
As long as they actively involve the local communities, it can succeed. Community ownership is crucial.
The idea of having celebrities join in sports events seems mostly for PR. Hopefully bringing real value to the residents is more than just a spectacle.
Agreed. But often that’s what it takes to draw attention and build early excitement.
Yeah, sometimes you need the glitz to connect, then change follows.
It’s nice seeing so many stakeholders involved. Perhaps we need more women in such leadership roles though. Balance is important.
Wow, if every city put this much effort into their sports facilities, we might see a healthier generation. Parks and recreation are more critical than ever!
True that, Maya. But let’s make sure they don’t prioritize urban over rural only. Both areas need investment.
Just imagine the athletes this will inspire in the next decade. Projects like these can shape futures.
Hope it stays open for all to use and doesn’t become restricted or over-policed.