Whether buying or renting, living in condominiums is a popular choice for many people, especially those moving to Bangkok. Fortunately, the Bangkok real estate market presents plenty of options, from high-rise residential buildings perched in the thick of the action to low rise developments tucked away in city sois (streets and lanes) or outlying areas.
When classifying high and low rise buildings in Bangkok, the building height is linked to the soi where the condo is located. Regulations stipulate that if the soi is less than 10 metres wide, the maximum building height is 23 metres, about seven to eight stories. This restriction is due to safety and security as smaller sois are not designed to carry heavy traffic. Additionally, drainage and other utilities may not cope with the increased volumes, while fire and emergency vehicles may be unable to access smaller sois.
Generally speaking, developers prefer sites where tall buildings are permitted, as the potential return on investment is greater. However, several low builds offer excellent facilities and value. What are the pros and cons of high or low rise condos?
Advantages of Low Rise Living
- Some developments (not all) are further from the city centre and may offer slightly larger apartments, more landscaped shared green space and additional car parking;
- Apartments may have more garden and green views, offering a sense of peace and tranquillity;
- Potentially lower management fees, as common facilities and services may be less than larger residential developments;
- Apartments may be less expensive due to location and facilities, and it may be easier to deal directly with landlords;
- With fewer condos, there can be a greater sense of community;
- Residents may be closer to street level, meaning less time waiting for elevators;
- In case of a disaster or emergency, lower buildings may be easier to egress;
Advantages of High Rise Living
- Buildings are usually in central locations, with nearby conveniences like mass transport (BTS and MRT), shops, restaurants and main road access;
- Commanding city skyline views, especially on higher floors;
- The higher floors particularly may offer more privacy, natural light, less noise and insects and better ventilation;
- Usually, larger buildings provide more facilities like swimming pools, decent sized gyms, jacuzzi, games and activity rooms, co-working spaces, rooftop access, gardens and BBQs, especially in newer builds;
- Although the purchase price may be higher, they tend to hold the value well, as the location is in high demand;
- Maintenance requests may be attended to more quickly with onsite staff available;
What about their green footprint?
Many astute developers have designed and constructed residential and commercial buildings to minimise environmental impact. Moreover, the Thai Green Building Code 2009 has stimulated additional effort in this area.
In March 2021, Thailand’s Building Energy Code (BEC) came into effect for new builds and expansions greater than 2,000 sqm, requiring compliance with the rules and regulations designed for better energy conservation. Initiatives include sourcing green materials and suppliers, water conservation and treatment, reducing energy usage, using green walls, roofs and gardens, installing solar panels, and providing lifestyle facilities. Buying into a new development in Thailand will have a greater ‘green’ appeal.
There are so many variables when it comes to pinpointing which is better – low or high rise. If you want to invest in property in Bangkok, research the development and ask plenty of questions to discover green initiatives utilised and the potential cost savings for the longer term. Naturally, your personal preferences and lifestyle choices are most important when finding your new home.
There are many condominiums in Bangkok and throughout Thailand with excellent green credentials. These are just two examples.
Magnolias Ratchadamri Boulevard (high rise)
The tenth tallest building in Bangkok, completed in 2015, complies with the Thai 2009 Green Building Code and the US Green Building LEED certification. The magnolia petal-like contours spiralling the tower and podium are visually stunning and provide sun protection, allow natural light into spaces where needed and save energy. Insulated glazing, Low-E coated windows and sunshade devices reduce the building’s heat gain, lowering air conditioner usage, a significant draw on energy in Thailand.
This luxury residential and hotel tower boast excellent facilities, including a swimming pool with kids pool and jacuzzi, steam and sauna room, fitness centre, business centre, outdoor jogging track, 24-hour security, garden with BBQ and kids playground. Beautifully appointed, one and two-bedroom apartments offer magnificent city views and prestige living.
FYNN Asoke (low rise)
FYNN Asoke was a deserved winner of Best High-End Condo Landscape Architectural Design (Bangkok) and Best High-End Condo Architectural Design (Bangkok) at the PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards 2019.
The development comprises two eight-story buildings and features a beautiful 60-year-old rain tree regally positioned between the buildings, providing shade and natural beauty. The inviting swimming pool further complements this stunning ground floor area.
The rooftop is home to more gardens, a walking trail, private spaces, a sunset balcony, a playground, an outdoor community kitchen terrace, BBQ station, and courtyard. The recently transformed Benchakitti Park, with kilometres of walking, cycling and green spaces, is just 200 metres away, adding to the green ambience.
Tucked away from the Bangkok buzz in a green oasis, this fantastic development offers well designed, fully furnished one and two-bedroom apartments, with full-length windows enhancing the green ambience.
Explore all low rise condos for rent on Lazudi to find out more, or our low rise residences for sale.
