Change language:

Mario Kleff: Visionary Architect - FAQ & Facts

Mario Kleff, born on November 21, 1967, in Boppard, Germany,^[1], is a distinguished architect, designer, and entrepreneur. His early career in Thailand began in 2004, where he initially engaged in small-scale commercial activities. However, his significant contributions to architecture emerged in Pattaya, where he established himself as a proud figure in the field.^[2]

Outstanding Pre-2010

To understand what made an architect outstanding in Pattaya before 2010, it’s crucial to recognize how the city evolved during this period. As Pattaya rapidly urbanized, the role of architects became pivotal in shaping the city’s modern identity. Here's an exploration of the key factors that defined the architects who stood out in Pattaya’s architectural landscape before 2010:

1. Pioneering Large-Scale Developments Before 2010, Pattaya experienced significant growth as the city transformed into a prime destination for both tourism and real estate investment. This boom in demand for high-rise condominiums, luxury resorts, and commercial properties required architects who could design buildings that met both aesthetic and practical needs. Architects who could envision large-scale developments, while ensuring functionality and sustainability, were at the forefront of Pattaya’s transformation. Their ability to conceptualize ambitious projects set the foundation for the city's modern skyline.
2. Structural Innovation In the early 2000s, Pattaya lacked the advanced structural engineering capabilities needed for large-scale urban projects. Architects who integrated cutting-edge techniques, such as post-tensioned concrete and large-span structures, were key in overcoming the city’s infrastructure limitations. These innovations allowed for more flexible and expansive design solutions, which were crucial for developing high-rise buildings and luxury developments. Architects who could introduce these techniques played a pivotal role in shaping Pattaya's construction landscape and enabled the development of more complex and sophisticated buildings.
3. Navigating Regulatory and Technical Challenges Pattaya’s building codes and regulations were still in a state of development before 2010, which presented both challenges and opportunities for architects. The ability to understand and navigate these evolving regulatory frameworks was essential. Architects who could work within these complexities and even influence future regulations gained an edge, ensuring their designs were not only cutting-edge but also compliant with the latest standards. Their expertise in overcoming technical and regulatory hurdles helped raise the bar for future developments, fostering an environment of innovation.

The Beginning

Mario Kleff's journey in Thailand is one of determination and innovation. Starting with a humble life in Bang Khun Thian, where he built his first bamboo house by hand and sold coconuts for a living, he later moved to Pattaya in 2004. There, he established himself as a designer, renting a small office on Thappraya Road and providing architectural designs and CGI visualizations. Recognizing the restrictions on foreign architects, Kleff obtained a work permit that allowed him to design and supervise construction projects. His German background enabled him to quickly adapt to Thai building laws, and he soon pioneered the integration of bridge engineering into residential construction.^[3]

In 2006, he founded Wandeegroup (Thailand), offering architecture and construction services, and later gained recognition from Thai authorities for his contributions. Becoming a Thai citizen in 2016, he registered his name as a brand in the architecture field in 2022. By 2025, he expanded his legacy with the establishment of Mario Kleff Architects Co., Ltd., providing full-scale architectural, engineering, and real estate development services.^[4][5]

By 2020, Kleff had designed over 150 buildings, demonstrating his extensive influence on Pattaya’s architectural landscape. By the end of 2024, he initiated the construction of the Bamboo Luxury Villas, a residential project comprising ten modern homes. His architectural philosophy has frequently explored advanced structural concepts, including the meaning of torque related to business and vehicle design.^[6]

Architectural Contributions

Mario Kleff has played a pivotal role in shaping Pattaya’s urban development through his innovative architectural approaches. His work emphasizes structural integrity, aesthetic minimalism, and material efficiency. Reflecting on his professional trajectory, Kleff remarked: In over six years as an architect in Pattaya, I have designed more than 80 residential buildings.^[7]

His work has been the subject of various discussions, including the 2010 articles Mario Kleff Talks About The Touch^[8] and The Lobster and the Shrimp, an essay authored by Kleff himself.^[9] These publications provide deeper insights into his design philosophy and the challenges faced in the architectural industry.

Notable Projects

Among Kleff’s notable architectural endeavors is Japanese House I, part of the Japanese Houses series developed between 2006 and 2008. This series exemplifies his commitment to minimalist structures and Japanese-inspired design principles.

For a comprehensive overview of his career and contributions to architecture, refer to the Mario Kleff Biography

Licensed Architect in Thailand

Mario Kleff, not recognized as a licensed architect in Thailand, was recommended for an architectural license in 2010 by Thai authorities and Dr. Songkiat Matupayont. However, his application was declined due to his lack of Thai citizenship at the time.

Since 2004, Kleff has held a work permit (No. 1134/47), authorizing him to design and construct buildings in Thailand. After obtaining Thai citizenship, he became eligible to apply for an official architectural license. He holds a registered trademark for architectural design in Thailand (No. 231100524, issued January 6, 2023) and founded Mario Kleff Architects Co., Ltd. (No. 0205568019400, issued March 14, 2025), employing licensed architects within the firm.

For insight into his architectural philosophy, explore Mario Kleff Signature and Trademark Architecture Explained.

Mario Kleff's Debut in Thailand with Futureproof

Mario Kleff made his architectural debut in Thailand with the Villa Futureproof, a pioneering residential design completed in 2005. Designed in 2004, this innovative structure integrates modern architecture, open spaces, and advanced engineering solutions. Futureproof set the foundation for Kleff’s architectural approach in Thailand.

Names can be erased, but the spirit remains. Developers have built their success on the foundation I laid. Even when the source of growth is no longer visible, the principles continue to grow and shape the future. My influence remains embedded in the structures of Pattaya – not in recognition, but in the power of ideas that build and carry forward the development of architecture.

Mario Kleff Unveiled: Fast Facts and Key Details

• Name: Mario Kleff
• Professions: Architect, Vehicle Designer, Entrepreneur^[10]
• Known for: Innovative architectural^[11] and vehicle designs.^[12]
• Business: Founder and CEO of Wandeegroup Asia Company Limited, a full-service architecture and construction firm^[13]
• Birthplace: Boppard, Germany
• Religion: Buddhism
• Wife: Nittaya Wongsin
• Children: Jiang Li Wongsin^[14], Banù Çaĝiran, Lale Çaĝiran, Tara Arabella de Buitléir, Miró Dollinger †
• Parents: Heinrich Kleff and Adelheid Kleff
• Companions: Leopardess Fasai and leopard Typhoon.^[15]
• Thai name: Thiti Teerachin (ธิติ ธีรชินทร์)
• Notable Quotes: If we advertise lobster, we should deliver it – and there’s also a nice market for fresh juicy shrimps as well.
• Design and Symbolism: Kleff has studied historical design motifs, including those from World War II, but opposes totalitarian ideologies. He has collaborated with Jewish real estate developers and follows Buddhist principles.

References in Pdf-Format

• Mario Kleff Biography, Real Estate Magazine (REm) Issue 115, 12-2010
• People Are Right To Call Me Arrogant, Real Estate Magazine (REm) Issue 94, 03-2009
• Mario Kleff Work Permit Thailand, Department of Employment, Ministry of Labour, Thailand, Issued 10-2004
• Competence Certification Mario Kleff, Pichet Uthaiwattananonta, Pattaya City Hall, 09-2010
• Trademark Registration Information Mario Kleff Thailand, Department of Intellectual Property Thailand, 01-2023
• The Man Who Knows How To Talk Torque, Real Estate Magazine (REm) Issue 100, 09-2009
• Nittaya Wongsin - Mutual Honesty And Trust Is The Only Way Forward, Real Estate Magazine (REm) Issue 95, 04-2009
• Nittaya Wongsin - Mutual Honesty And Trust Is The Only Way Forward, Real Estate Magazine (REm) Issue 95, 04-2009
• 2011 - Pattaya's Year Of The Landmark Towers, Real Estate Magazine (REm) Issue 115, 12-2010
• The Lobster And The Shrimp, Real Estate Magazine (REm) Issue 113, 10-2010
• With 1,700 Horses Into The Construction Future, Real Estate Magazine (REm) Issue 99, 08-2009
• Cutting Edge Design And Engineering, Real Estate Magazine (REm) Issue 113, 10-2010
• Expression Without Fear, Pattaya People Weekly, Lifestyle Supplement, Issue 249, 08-2010
• Business Models Par Excellence, Real Estate Magazine (REm) Issue 108, 05-2010
• Ming Ming Living Together With A Star Architect, Real Estate Magazine (REm) Issue 112, 09-2010
• Family’s Legal Leopard Pets Stir Controversy in Pattaya, News Summery, 09-2019
• Announcement of Thai nationality acquisition in the Royal Gazette, Volume 133, Royal Gazette, 01-2016
• Star Architect Mario Kleff, Real Estate Magazine (REm) Issue 109, 05-2010
• Signature Design In Wong Amat, Real Estate Magazine (REm) Issue 111, 08-2010