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This issue of the ASA Journal, Contemporary Esan, examines contemporary architecture in Esan through case studies that reveal how local contexts are being reinterpreted to support the region’s evolving lifestyles and economic activities. The featured projects range from restaurants that merge global brand concepts with local sensibilities to the adaptive reuse of early industrial buildings, as well as schools, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions that integrate diverse design approaches, architectural languages, and material strategies.

The issue also includes conversations with architects from S Pace Studio in Khon Kaen and Tantai Architects in Ubon Ratchathani, offering insights into their working methods and perspectives on a rapidly transforming Esan.

In a rapidly changing world with continuous urban population growth, Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) has evolved into more than just an urban planning strategy. It represents a collective effort to shape the future of the urban communities we inhabit. TOD embodies an intelligent integration of efficient public transportation with dense and diverse land uses around transit nodes. At its core, TOD seeks to create walkable and bike-friendly environments, enabling people to conveniently access housing, workplaces, and essential services without reliance on private cars. This not only helps alleviate traffic congestion and reduce air pollution but also fosters healthier lifestyles and enhances opportunities for social interaction within the community.

In this issue of the ASA Journal, the focus is placed on Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), explored from multiple perspectives. These include theoretical frameworks presented in international symposiums, design challenges within the Thai context, and compelling case studies of local architectural projects that have adopted TOD principles —from master planning to architectural and landscape design details. Together, these contributions illustrate how TOD can serve as a powerful tool to drive urban livability alongside economic development.

Architect’ 25 was inspired by the theme “Past, Present Perfect,” with the idea of looking back to the beginning in order to move forward. The event invited thoughtful reflection on our architectural heritage, offering the next generation of architects an opportunity to engage with the past through fresh and diverse perspectives.

This year’s exhibition also highlighted the role of the architectural profession in relation to people’s everyday lives, through urban development and adapting to changing environments. Examples included design concepts for emergency shelters in response to flooding, as well as the development of transit oriented districts (TOD) around public transportation hubs. These initiatives were carried out in collaboration with diverse professional associations, ensuring that design solutions address the needs of people and society in a sustainable way.