The client, Aisin AW Co., Ltd., is the world’s leading manufacturer-in terms of market share-of automatic transmissions for automobiles. Its first Southeast Asian plant is in a 213,000㎡ industrial park, southeast of Bangkok. The first phase of construction included the plant, welfare, and administration buildings, as well as sports courts. The plant building-which concentrates utilities on the mezzanine floor-employs a mechanical tube system that provides flexible, efficient air conditioning. To mitigate the effects of late-afternoon sun, the administration building uses reinforced concrete wall columns and heat-absorbing glass that provides a view out, while creating a façade that incorporates insulation. Thus, while the work space offers superior visual surroundings, it also boasts a reduced environmental footprint. Further, the deep façade meets the needs of the Thai environment, and provides a pleasant welcome for visitors