A production facility balances industry with environment

As a company offering a simplified energy solution, the Nong Fab LNG Receiving Terminal was developed with green design in the forefront of every decision. The goal for the architectural plan was to immediately immerse visitors into the production process while softening the harsh manufacturing components with elements of nature. 

The company produces Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), a viable response to the world’s energy crisis. Following a process that turns natural gas into liquid for efficient storage and use, LNG is a significant source of fuel for power plants. The facility provides a space to educate the public about the process. 

Related: Heating with hydrogen power costs 70% more than natural gas

In between manufacturing and use, the liquid is stored in huge cryogenic tanks. The team at Architects 49 based the design of the building on the inside of those tanks, creating an atmosphere that resembles the tank dimensions and interior. 

Thank you!

Keep an eye out for our weekly newsletter.

Join Our Newsletter

Receive the latest in global news and designs building a better future.

SIGN UP

SIGN UP

However, to avoid a cold and clinical industrial feel, the interior design includes natural landscaping above, below and within the facility. A green roof merges the building with the neighboring hillside. Plants and trees fill the central courtyard inside the building with more greenery surrounding the structure.

The architects explained, “Externally, the structure is designed to blend in with its surroundings. This is achieved by retaining the original wetland environment (Nong), along with the native Hymenocardia (Fab) trees.”

Although the goal of the project was to maintain the wetlands, part of the area was destroyed. Developers recreated the ecosystem and developed a large pond to act as a collection spot for the facility and the surrounding landscaping. 

The process of converting LNG back into a gas after storage produces cool air as a by-product. Rather than releasing it where it might harm the environment, the air is used to regulate the temperature within the building. 

+ Architects 49 

Images via DOF Sky|Ground, Nattakit Jeerapatmaitree