Bangkok, Thailand – In a significant move poised to reshape Bangkok’s urban landscape and cater to a burgeoning consumer desire for nature-centric living, BITEC BURI today announced the landmark launch of “SAMA Garden,” an expansive Green Lifestyle Centre. This ambitious project, representing a core component of BITEC BURI’s 2 Billion Baht LIVE & PLAY transformation strategy, signifies a strategic pivot towards the B2C market, aiming to establish a unique sanctuary for city dwellers within the bustling Bangna district.
SAMA Garden, sprawling over an impressive 11,000 square meters within the existing BITEC BURI complex, is conceptualized as more than just a retail space; it’s envisioned as Thailand’s pioneering all-in-one Green Lifestyle Centre. The initiative is a direct response to evolving consumer behaviors, particularly a heightened appreciation for green spaces and holistic well-being in the post-pandemic era. The core mission of SAMA Garden is to offer a tranquil, inspiring, and accessible haven where individuals of all ages can seamlessly integrate green living into their daily routines, thereby enhancing their overall quality of life through a profound and tangible connection with the natural world.
Mr. Pitipat Buri, Chief Executive Officer of BHIRAJ BURI GROUP, the visionary force behind BITEC BURI, articulated the profound philosophy underpinning this transformative project. “Our purpose at BHIRAJ BURI GROUP is to create sustainability for urban life,” he stated. “We are committed to developing green spaces that reconnect urban residents with nature — places where green living is tangible, accessible, practical, and enjoyable. Since the COVID era, there has been a significant shift in consumer lifestyle. From being confined indoors and online, people have begun to crave nature.
SAMA Garden is designed to fulfill that longing, allowing people to immerse themselves to heal through nature, shop for plants, bring their pets for walks, enjoy healthy meals, and learn about green living — all in one inspiring, easy-to-access location. It’s a space to recharge and return home filled with renewed happiness and inspiration.”
This statement underscores a keen understanding of contemporary urban challenges and a proactive approach to addressing them. The investment in SAMA Garden is not merely a commercial venture but a commitment to fostering community well-being and environmental consciousness. The name “SAMA Garden” itself is thoughtfully chosen, derived from the Thai word “Samakom,” which translates to “community” or “association.” This nomenclature reflects the project’s deep-seated ambition to cultivate a vibrant hub where like-minded individuals can convene, share their passion for green living, and forge meaningful connections.
The design and layout of SAMA Garden are meticulously planned to offer a multifaceted and immersive experience. The venue is ingeniously segmented into twelve distinct zones, each catering to different facets of a green and mindful lifestyle. This comprehensive approach ensures that SAMA Garden is not just a destination but an ecosystem that supports a holistic engagement with nature and sustainable practices.
The “House of Plants” is set to be a veritable paradise for botanical enthusiasts, boasting an extraordinary collection of over 1,000 plant species to browse or purchase. This zone will serve as both a source of inspiration and a retail outlet, allowing visitors to browse, learn about, and purchase a diverse array of flora to enrich their own living spaces. Complementing this is the “Outdoor Lifestyle Zone,” which will feature plants suited for sunnier environments alongside a variety of outdoor furniture, catering to those looking to enhance their balconies, patios, or gardens.
For the practical aspects of plant care, the “Garden Gadgets Zone” will provide a comprehensive selection of tools and gardening equipment sourced from both local and international suppliers, while the “SOS: Plants Service Counter” will offer invaluable expert advice and solutions for plant care, ensuring that even novice gardeners feel supported.
Beyond horticulture, SAMA Garden embraces a broader definition of green living. The “Lifestyle Hall” is envisioned as a curated space showcasing Thai brands that emphasize craftsmanship, sustainability, innovative design, and mindful living. This zone will provide a platform for local artisans and entrepreneurs who align with the centre’s ethos, offering visitors unique and ethically produced goods. Further fostering creativity and engagement, the “Workshop Space” will serve as a dynamic hub for a variety of hands-on activities and workshops, allowing visitors to learn new skills related to gardening, sustainable crafts, wellness, and more.
Recognizing the importance of family and community, SAMA Garden incorporates dedicated spaces for all age groups. The “Kids Zone” is designed to be a child-focused area that supports development through nature-based play and learning, nurturing an early appreciation for the environment. For those seeking quieter pursuits, the “Library Zone” will offer a cozy reading corner stocked with books, unique souvenirs, and nature-inspired items, providing a tranquil retreat for reflection and discovery. Understanding the integral role pets play in many urban households, a well-stocked “Pets Zone” will cater to the needs of pet lovers and their companions.
Culinary experiences at SAMA Garden are also infused with the theme of nature and well-being. The “GAYA Restaurant & Bar” promises to be a serene culinary sanctuary, offering wholesome Southeast Asian flavors infused with medicinal herbs, designed to nourish both body and soul. Adjacent to this, the “GAYA Tea Room,” housed in a cozy glasshouse, will provide an idyllic setting for enjoying tea, coffee, and light refreshments, encouraging moments of shared enjoyment amidst nature’s embrace.
Furthermore, SAMA Garden is equipped to host a variety of functions and gatherings. The versatile “Event Space” offers a naturally beautiful venue for weddings, private parties, product launches, or corporate events, complete with customizable themes and professional support staff, allowing for memorable occasions set against a verdant backdrop.
The commitment to quality and thoughtful design extends to the product offerings within SAMA Garden, which will feature a curated selection from over 70 local and international brands. This careful curation ensures that visitors have access to a diverse range of high-quality products that align with their lifestyle choices and values.
Crucially, BHIRAJ BURI Group, through SAMA Garden, is actively championing the growth of small businesses and social entrepreneurs. The project aims to be an enabler, providing a vital platform that expands market access, strengthens consumer reach, and promotes the creative economy. This focus on fostering sustainable social value through conscious consumption positions SAMA Garden not just as a commercial entity but as a catalyst for positive economic and social impact.
SAMA Garden is scheduled to open its doors to the public by May 22, 2025. The anticipation is building for what promises to be a refreshing, welcoming, and inclusive green urban escape. It is designed to appeal to a wide demographic, from city dwellers seeking tranquility and a respite from urban stress, to pet owners looking for green walking spaces, avid plant enthusiasts, health and wellness-conscious individuals, and families desiring a place where children can learn about and connect meaningfully with nature.
Accessibility is a key consideration in the design and location of SAMA Garden. For visitors arriving by personal vehicle, ample parking will be available in the BITEC BURI underground facility. The centre is also seamlessly integrated with public transportation networks; visitors can take the BTS Skytrain to Bangna Station (Exit 1) and follow a direct skywalk to SAMA Garden, ensuring convenient access for all.
In essence, SAMA Garden is more than just Bangkok’s newest lifestyle destination; it represents a forward-thinking movement. It is a thoughtfully designed space where incorporating green living into the everyday fabric of life feels natural, enjoyable, and aspirational. Surrounded by a lush, verdant environment, visitors will be able to shop for high-quality, well-designed products, savor wholesome Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine, engage in enriching hands-on workshops, and, most importantly, reconnect with the natural world in a meaningful way.
This holistic approach aims to contribute to a better, more sustainable society, one where the integration of nature and urban living fosters enhanced well-being and a deeper appreciation for the environment. The launch of SAMA Garden by BITEC BURI is a clear indicator of the evolving economic landscape, where investments in sustainable development and consumer well-being are increasingly recognized as drivers of long-term value and community enrichment.