Mario Kleff® – Architect in Pattaya | Signature Design & Structural Systems
Designing structurally advanced high-rise and long-span residential architecture in Thailand since 2004, integrating architecture, engineering, and construction into one accountable design-build system.
Architect of 9 high-rise buildings · Introduced cellular beam systems in Thailand · International Property Awards Winner
Unlike conventional architectural practices, Mario Kleff® integrates structural engineering and construction execution directly into the design process from the first concept stage.
A verified portfolio of high-rise developments, structural systems, and executed commissions is documented in the high-rise project portfolio, including architectural data, engineering strategies, and construction outcomes across Thailand and international projects.
Architecture is not styled. It is engineered, resolved, and built.
Structure Is Design.
Introduction
German-born architect Mario Kleff has been active in Pattaya since the early 2000s, delivering high-rise towers, luxury villas, and structurally complex residential projects. He has designed nine high-rise buildings across national and international contexts.
His work is defined by the principle: "Structure Is Design", applied across multi-storey buildings and long-span residential structures.
Mario Kleff trademarked his personal name in 2023 and founded a specialized architectural practice in 2025.
Why Structure Is Design
Early in his work, Kleff observed that most buildings separate architecture from engineering. Form is designed first, structure follows.
On site, this leads to compromise—beams are concealed, columns interrupt space, and materials are used inefficiently.
He rejected this approach.
Structure is not added to architecture; it defines it from the beginning.
When spans, loads, and materials are resolved first, space becomes clearer, construction becomes more precise, and the building gains its identity without applied decoration.
Kleff’s work has developed through distinct phases, each defined by structural innovation and its architectural application.
2008–2010: Structural Breakthrough
Introduction of steel-framed construction and the first application of cellular beam systems in Thailand, establishing a new approach to long-span residential and commercial structures.
2005–2020: High-Rise Development & System Integration
Lead architect for multiple high-rise towers and complex residential buildings, integrating long-span structural systems and reduced column grids into scalable architectural solutions.
2021–2026: Signature Residential Structures
Development of high-end villas and residential projects defined by long spans, cantilevers, and advanced structural systems, consolidating a distinct architectural identity based on structural authorship.
Design of a retail center in Pattaya using cellular beams, 2012.
Architectural Approach
In Kleff’s work, structural systems are not concealed—they organize space, define proportion, and determine architectural expression.
Design does not begin with form. It begins with spans, loads, and material behavior.
Structure is the first decision. Never the final adjustment.
Beams establish spatial limits and structural logic.
Columns define rhythm, proportion, and load transfer.
Spans determine openness, flexibility, and use.
Load Paths generate the building’s form.
By resolving structure first, architectural space becomes clearer, construction becomes more efficient, and materials are used with precision.
Long-span steel and concrete systems enable column-free interiors, flexible layouts, and a consistent architectural language derived from engineering rather than applied style.
Application in Built Projects
The integration of advanced structural design allows for:
Large, open interiors free of unnecessary columns
Structural clarity instead of decorative excess
Efficient and durable material use
Consistent architectural language derived from engineering
Across completed projects, architecture, structure, and construction are developed as a single process, producing buildings where form, function, and structural integrity are inseparable.
Structure Is Design: A minimalist residential project by Mario Kleff in 2021, unifying form, function, and structural clarity.
Explore his Architectural Philosophy
Browse Mario Kleff’s architectural vision that blends engineering innovation, minimalist aesthetics, and timeless design principles in high-rise towers, luxury villas, and long-span residential projects. Each project demonstrates the integration of structure, design, and construction excellence.
Brutalist-style residential villa in Pattaya built by Mario Kleff, 2006.Brutalist-style condominium built by Mario Kleff in Pattaya, 2008.
Structural Reinforcement
At the core of Mario Kleff’s work, every structure is deliberately engineered to define both the character and identity of the building.
“Good architecture does not rely on decoration; its character is defined by engineering.”
— Mario Kleff
This statement is not metaphorical, it is literal.
Structure is not expressed—it is the architecture.
Structural Expression 2004-2026
Kleff’s projects fuse advanced engineering with structural expression in which engineering is not concealed but articulated.
Before 2010, Mario Kleff designed and built multiple steel-framed buildings in Pattaya, including the city’s tallest free-standing showroom and Thailand’s first cellular-beam condominium, Park Royal 2.
Pattaya’s tallest free-standing steel-framed showroom, exceeding 27 meters in height.Thailand’s first condominium, Park Royal 2, utilizing cellular beam technology and post-tensioned concrete decking.
Residential homes in Pattaya that were legally registered under foreign ownership, meeting Thai law and ensuring transparent property rights for foreign buyers.
Two steel-framed residential buildings in Pattaya, legally registered under foreign ownership.
His work introduced advanced structural systems at a time when steel and hybrid construction methods were still uncommon in the region — positioning structural innovation as architectural authorship.
Signature Architectural Style
Structure Is the Design
Concrete, steel, and beams are exposed not for effect, but because they are the building’s essential logic.
Skeletal structure of a Thai-Bali villa.
Long Spans and Cantilevers
Cellular beams, steel box girders, and prestressed concrete enable spatial freedom through structural resolution.
Beauty emerges from structural necessity and material coherence — not applied ornament.
Minimalism brutalist structure of a villa.
Authorial Integrity
Each project bears the Mario Kleff® mark as confirmation of structural authorship and engineering authenticity.
Authorial integrity on construction site.
Selected Projects
A selection of projects demonstrating the integration of structural systems, architectural design, and construction execution.
Wongamat Tower
38-storey beachfront high-rise in Pattaya.
Lead architect and design-build director for one of Pattaya’s tallest residential towers in 2015. The project demonstrates the integration of structural systems and architectural form at high-rise scale.
Recognition for architectural design, structural innovation, and project execution:
International Property Awards Asia Pacific – Best Single Residence, Thailand.
SourceBest Single Residence for Majestic Residence Signature Villa, International Property Awards Asia Pacific.
LIV Hospitality Design Awards – Honorable Mention, Architecture, for Japanese House II.
SourceHonorable Mention in Architecture for Japanese House II, LIV Hospitality Design Awards.
Professional reference letter (2010) issued by Pichet Uthaiwattananonta, Director of the Construction Department, Pattaya City Hall.
Source: Wikimedia Commons.
Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
(Translated version available.)
English translation (archival transcript)
Date: 10 September 2010
Author: Pichet Uthaiwattananonta, Director of the Construction Department, Pattaya City Hall
Subject: Professional Reference for Mr. Mario Kleff
I, Mr. Pichet Uthaiwattananoon, Director of the Engineering Department at Pattaya City Hall, confirm that I have worked with Mr. Mario Kleff for over three years in a professional capacity. During this period, he provided advisory and technical support on architectural and structural design projects in Thailand, including residential buildings and large-scale condominium developments, such as the 37-story Wongamat Tower and the Park Royal 2 project.
His work included providing design advice, preparing technical documentation, and applying construction methods relevant to these projects.
Sincerely,
Pichet Uthaiwattananonta
Director, Construction Department
Pattaya, City
Professional reference letter (2010) issued by Dr. Songkiat Matupayont, Civil and Structural Engineer, in relation to architectural licensing in Thailand.
English translation (archival transcript)
Date: 15 September 2010
Author: Dr. Songkiat Matupayont, Civil and Structural Engineer
Subject: Professional reference in support of Mr. Mario Kleff
I, Dr. Songkiat Matupayont, Senior Project Manager at Civil and Structural Engineers Co., Ltd., confirm that I have worked with Mario Kleff on structural design projects in a professional context. He submitted an application for professional licensing with the Architect Council of Thailand.
During our collaboration, he provided architectural design input in projects such as the Park Royal 2 condominium, including the application of a cellular beam steel system. His work involved structural integration and design documentation relevant to the project.
This statement serves as a professional reference provided to the Architect Council of Thailand regarding his experience and project involvement.
Press Coverage
Selected media coverage documenting architectural projects, structural innovation, and development activity in Pattaya and Thailand.
All projects are delivered through an integrated design-build model. Architectural design, structural engineering, and construction are executed as a single coordinated process.
Wandeegroup Asia is the construction and engineering partner of Mario Kleff, ensuring architectural visions are executed without compromise. This collaboration allows every project to be designed and built under a single philosophy of innovation and structural truth. https://wandeegroup.com/
Wandee Super Span Company Limited specializes in advanced engineering solutions and long-span structures. With expertise in large-scale construction, the company delivers projects that combine innovation, strength, and architectural ambition. https://wandee-super-span.com/
Design Beyond Architecture
Mario Kleff has designed and customized motorcycles and cars, often creating unique engineering solutions and pushing the limits of automotive design.
Beyond architecture, Kleff has explored terrarium and habitat design, combining structural creativity with a deep understanding of nature and wildlife.
In his early artistic career, Mario Kleff worked on detailed reproductions of the Book of Kells, demonstrating his fine art skills and eye for historical detail.
The biography Mario Kleff: Without Fear explores his unconventional life, from humble beginnings to becoming a renowned architect and designer in Thailand.
Core principles and frequently asked questions about Mario Kleff’s architectural approach.
Structure is Design.
Mario Kleff’s philosophy is built on the principle “Structure is Design.” His work unites engineering and architecture, proving that strength and beauty are inseparable.
The Mario Kleff® trademark represents originality in architecture, design, and engineering. It is a registered mark of quality and innovation recognized in Thailand and beyond.
His projects often push engineering boundaries with long-span structures and minimal columns, demonstrating how structure itself becomes the architecture.
In design, terms like architecture, interior architecture, and interior decoration are often confused, but each has distinct roles and expertise. Understanding these differences highlights the unique contributions of architects and designers like Mario Kleff.
Between 2005 and 2010, Mario Kleff, through his firm Wandeegroup (Thailand) Co., Ltd., developed numerous architectural designs in Pattaya, Thailand. While all of these projects received official building permits from Pattaya City Hall’s Construction Department, many were not constructed, largely due to the global economic downturn and its impact on Thailand’s real estate sector.
Mario Kleff® has influenced Thailand’s real estate and construction industry by introducing modern structural techniques, leaving a lasting mark on landmark buildings and villas.
Mitch Connor · Archived version)
Thaiger
·
Archived version)
Cita Catellya
·
Archived version)