Mario Kleff exhibits a dynamic and multifaceted personality characterized by creativity, passion, and resilience. His innovative spirit and willingness to take risks reveal a bold and forward-thinking mindset. Kleff's visionary approach allows him to identify potential and possibilities that others might overlook, while his meticulous attention to detail ensures precision and high standards in his endeavors. His collaborative and adaptable nature enables him to navigate various situations effectively, showcasing strong interpersonal communication skills and the ability to work well with others.
A notable aspect of Kleff's personality is his profound connection to nature and animals, reflecting a deep respect for wildlife and a harmonious relationship with the natural world. This appreciation for nature adds a unique dimension to his overall character and suggests a sense of tranquility and environmental commitment.
Additionally, Kleff's focused and determined nature highlights his strong will and commitment to achieving his goals. His problem-solving skills and resourcefulness further emphasize his proactive approach and ability to tackle challenges effectively. The 1985 psychoanalysis and psychological testing, conducted by Prof. Dr. med. Johann Christian Glatzel in collaboration with lawyers Rolf Bossi and Steffen Ufer, captured an impressive IQ of 148, underscoring Mario Kleff's exceptional cognitive abilities and further enhancing his profile as a well-rounded and dynamic individual.[g]
By 2020, Mario Kleff's remarkable portfolio comprised over 150 building designs, showcasing his expertise in crafting more than 30 condominium buildings and over 20 villas crafted until 2009. His architectural prowess scored recognition, notably at the Thailand Property Awards 2012, where his Bauhaus design for the South Beach Condominium, also known as South Beach Boutique Chic, clinched a prestigious award.
Registered trademark, 2023
Architecture brand, 2023
As of 2023, Mario Kleff transcends mere nomenclature, evolving into a registered trademark synonymous with design and architectural excellence. Enthusiasts eagerly await the forthcoming biography embellished with anime-styled illustrations.[tr]
Mario Kleff’s architectural journey began with the Park Royal Series, which includes Park Royal 1, Park Royal 2, and Park Royal 3. These initial projects marked the start of Kleff’s career, showcasing his ability to blend functionality with elegance in residential design. Each Park Royal development set new standards in the field and established a strong foundation for his future work.[dp1][dp2][dp3]
Expanding on this success, Mario Kleff took on a variety of new projects. These include the Laguna Heights condominium, a landmark development in Pattaya; Club Royal condominium and Laguna Bay condominium, both exemplifying luxurious living; and Suan Sawarn, a project that highlights his dedication to creating beautiful and functional spaces. Other notable projects include Sky Park, Parkside Shopping, and On The Hill, each reflecting Kleff’s unique vision and innovative approach to architectural design.[dp4][dp5][dp6][dp7][dp8]
Mario Kleff's architectural ingenuity shines through in his distinctive creations such as the iconic Wongamat Tower, and The Touch®, Park Royal 2 and the Japanese House. Excitingly, his innovative approach extends to upcoming projects, including the eagerly anticipated Zenith Residences Pattaya (2024), promising to redefine the residential landscape with his visionary designs.
Japanese House II in 2008
Due to its distinctive architectural design and engineering, Mario Kleff retains the copyright ownership and design rights for all buildings created by him.
Kleff's collaboration with Urs Graf Verlag Bern and Urs Düggelin, publisher of Faksimile Verlag Luzern, led to five of his Book of Kells folios being displayed at the Gutenberg Museum in Mainz during the "Irland und das Book of Kells" exhibition from February 6 to April 12, 1993, curated by Dr. Adolf Wild.[2]His work was further showcased at the Diocesan Museum in Trier under the exhibition "Glanz Des Mittelalters" from October 27 to November 2, 1997, curated by Prof. Dr. Michael Embach.[3] This exhibition later transformed into a traveling exhibition across Germany until 2001.
[4]
Between 1990 and 1997, Kleff crafted over 40 folios of the Book of Kells using authentic techniques and color recipes.[5]In acknowledgment of his efforts, he received a limited edition facsimile of the Book of Kells from Düggelin.[6]In 1990, the price for one of the 1,480 Verlag copies, composed of two volumes – the facsimile itself and a scientific commentary – was IR£7,000 (€8,888).[7]
During this period, Kleff's dedication to his craft extended beyond manuscript replication. In 1989, he began specialized training in color chemistry and recipes of the early Middle Ages. This was followed in 1990 by training in early Christian art and an internship in linen production. The year 1991 saw him engage in internships in commercial photography, glass painting, glass loops, came glasswork, and gold- and silversmithing, alongside studies in psychology and philosophy. His travels to Ireland, Scotland, and England further enriched his artistic perspective.
During a public conversation with the publicist Dr. Wolfram Weimer at the Arnstein Abbey, the Bishop of Limburg, Franz-Peter Tebartz-van Elst, expressed his concern about allegations in the media. In the background, a folio from the Book of Kells reproduced by Mario Kleff was displayed.
Kleff's public engagements were equally notable. In 1991, he participated in the film "Leben und Handwerk im Mittelalter," broadcast on RTL Television, and delivered exhibitions and lectures in Bonn, Cologne, Reichenau Island, and Erfurt. He also conducted an exhibition, lecture, and demonstration at Runneburg, Erfurt. His growing prominence culminated in 1993 with a film about his life and work, broadcast on SWR Fernsehen, further cementing his influence in the field of art and craftsmanship.
It's worth noting that Mario Kleff was the first publicly recognized individual to create parchmentfolios of the Book of Kells based on literature studies and the only existing facsimile printed in the 1950s. Interestingly, it wasn't until the early 2000s, between 2004 and 2006, that a technique called micro-Raman spectroscopy was employed to analyze the book's pigments. This advanced analysis led to a nearly complete list of ingredients, some of which challenged previous findings.
Haus Herresberg
While studying arts from 1990-1992, Kleff resided at Villa Haus Herresberg at the banks of the Rhine near Remagen, courtesy of Countess Uta von Bassewitz and Cornelia von Guilleaume. He also worked on calligraphy reproductions at the Marksburg, with the support of the German Castles Association represented by Baroness Tilla von der Goltz and Busso von der Dollen.
Haus Herresberg in 2013
Post-Berlin wall
Kleff briefly collaborated with Ralf Häselich Arts Unlimited located in a locomotive hall in Mayen in 1992. Following the fall of the Berlin Wall, his pursuits led him to work as a techno-DJ in East-Berlin and to produce art in locations like Goa, India, and Ko Pha Ngan, Thailand.
Art director
Kleff's professional horizon broadened in 1996 with the dawn of new media. He served as an art director at several prestigious firms, including AD. VENTURE Werbeagentur GmbH, AGW, Samt and Rosen, adNET Werbeagentur GmbH, and Hiel/BBDO Munich. BBDO is one of the largest advertising agencies with a worldwide network and headquarters in New York. Concurrently, Kleff's talents were employed in stage design across German cities and as a freelance art director for notable magazines like GEMA and the Vogue (magazine). His expertise was later recognized by Hakuhodo Inc., Japan's second-largest advertising agency and recognized a leading public relations firm. He was appointed as the creative director by Mr Tachikawa for their new branch in Munich. New Econ AG Wiesbaden (Germany) offered him a position as the creative director for the new branch in Munich, in the same year. Kleff oversaw the marketing mix and graphic arts.
Controversial art
However, Kleff's ventures weren't without controversy; a 1999 performance art piece in the Aktionsforum Praterinsel on Praterinsel, where visitors donated blood for screen printing raised eyebrows. His provocative art like 'Art Is Dead', 'Do Ut Des' and 'Human Is Art' posed challenges to conventional art perspectives.
vMario Kleff: Art Is Dead
Mario Kleff's provocative statement, "Art Is Dead", emerged from a profound disillusionment with the literature he had amassed over the years. In a symbolic gesture, he ritually burned these books and, using bold red paint, articulated his sentiment on canvas. This work was then showcased at the RSKA college in Hennef (Sieg) in late 1993. At the heart of this act was Kleff's conviction that the masterpieces of yesteryears could merely be replicated, not reinvented afresh. Similarly, he felt the music that resonated with him was largely the legacy of long-deceased composers.
Painting Do Ut Des, Art Is Dead
Venturing deeper into the 1990s art philosophy, Kleff conceived an intricate and avant-garde performance. He crafted mannequins symbolizing a man, woman, and child, wrapping them in bandages and confining them in steel cages, which were subsequently ignited. Intriguingly, these mannequins were 80% water stored in petite plastic sachets.
As they were consumed by flames, water trickled down funnels located at the cage's base, collecting in glass containers inscribed with 'Human Being Is Art'. This scene was set to the backdrop of heartbeats, captured via a microphone on Kleff, harmonized with live techno beats. This marked the inception of 'Art Is Dead, Yet Alive' - Essence of art.
Human Being Is Art, Art Is Dead
In a subsequent act, Kleff used blood, voluntarily donated by attendees, to craft a painting titled Do Ut Des — Latin for ('I give that you might give'). This artwork underscored the ancient societal principle of mutual gift-giving and mirrored the transactional essence of religion in ancient Rome. Culminating this evocative performance, a crane elevated a steel construct resembling a picture frame, encapsulating a human figure. Illuminated majestically by searchlight, Kleff, elevated approximately 30 meters above, broadcasted his profound message: 'Human Is Art'.
In early 2002, a young Mario Kleff relocated to Bangkok (Thai: กรุงเทพมหานคร, RTGS: Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, pronounced [krūŋ tʰêːp mahǎː nákʰɔ̄ːn] (
listen)), the vibrant capital of Thailand. For a period, he resided in Bang Khun Thian (Thai: บางขุนเทียน, pronounced [bāːŋ kʰǔn tʰīa̯n] (
listen)), where he constructed his first bamboo hut. He also sold coconuts using a longtail boat (Thai: เรือหางยาวRTGS: Ruea hang yao, pronounced [rɯ̄a̯ hǎːŋ jāːw] (
listen)) on the river. After living this modest life for over two years, his curiosity about Thai language and culture grew, prompting him to immerse himself further into the heart of Thailand.
Wandeegroup in 2013
In 2004, Kleff relocated to Pattaya (Thai: พัทยา, RTGS: Phatthaya, pronounced [pʰát.tʰā.jāː] (
listen)). It is located in the Chonburi province (Thai: ชลบุรี, RTGS: Chon Buri, pronounced [tɕ͡ʰōn bū.rīː(
listen)) province. Within his first year there, he established his architecture firm and its corresponding construction company, Wandeegroup (Thailand) Co Ltd. He built his office at 162/220 Thappraya Road, in the Bang Lamung district (Thai: บางละมุง, pronounced [bāːŋ lā.mūŋ] (
listen)).
Wat Yan in 2005
In the following year, on April 2, 2005, Mario Kleff married Thai Chinese Nittaya Wongsin at the renowned Buddhist templeWat Yannasangwararam (Thai: วัดญาณสังวรารามวรมหาวิหาร, RTGS: Wat Yannasangwararam, pronounced [wát jaːnnáʔsǎŋwáʔraːraːm] (
listen)). Commonly referred to as Wat Yan, this temple holds significance as a first class temple (Royal temple). Notably, this was the first wedding ceremony ever to take place at Wat Yan. Typically, such ceremonies are not permitted for ordinary Thai citizens and foreigners.[8] However, Mario Kleff was granted special permission from the head abbot due to his artistic contributions, his deep connection with Buddhism, and the significant time he spent in Bang Khun Thian, which is an integral aspect of his life story and another important part of his biography.
Between 2004 and 2015, Kleff's company, Wandeegroup, introduced a unique mix of modern architectural design and structural engineering in Pattaya, expanding business opportunities in real estate development both in Thailand and internationally.
From 2007 to 2018, Mario Kleff, the architect behind the company, designed nine skyscrapers ranging from 130 to 278 meters in height.[dp8] He also conceptualized over fifty "eight-story" apartment buildings and a plethora of homes and pool villas. "Although Kleff's designs received approval from the pertinent construction departments, construction began or was completed on only two of the skyscrapers."
In 2006, Pichet Uthaiwattananota, who led Pattaya City Hall's Construction Department from 2006 to 2011, invited Mario Kleff to share ideas for revitalizing Pattaya Beach. In a design contest, Kleff suggested a sea-based museum as a contemporary concrete tribute to King Rama IX/Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ภูมิพลอดุลยเดช, RTGS: Phumiphon Adunyadet, pronounced [pʰūː.mí.pʰōn ʔā.dūn.jā.dèːt] (
listen)).[9]
This project proposal, complete with a scale model, was later showcased at Pattaya City Hall. Additionally, Kleff proposed a pedestrian bridge featuring a welcoming landmark for Pattaya City. However, the projected construction costs were deemed too high, and the project was subsequently shelved.
2018 marked another significant chapter in Mario Kleff's biography. Operating under his Thai name, Bhumeth Issarasilp, he and his Wandeegroup were commissioned to re-envision a significant project — Thakhek Dream World City in Laos. This mega-project comprised five skyscrapers, reaching up to 278 meters, accompanied by a shopping complex[10][11][12][13] on a 7-hectare of land in Thakhek (Lao: ທ່າແຂກ (
listen)), Laos. Kleff completed the project's designs at the onset of 2019. However, as of 2020, the project has been put on hold.
CITATION10. ^ Memorandum Of Agreement (MOA) For Design and Construction Contracting Works Of Zone A, B, C, and Iconic Building, (language: English), between Akane Development Lao Sez Co Ltd and Wandee Real Estate and Services Co Ltd, 04-04-2018, Laos.
In 2007, with support from the UK company Westok, Mario Kleff introduced the first cellular beam in Thailand, an evolved version of the castellated beam, utilizing advanced calculation and from SCI developed Cell-Vibe 1.0 design software. He showcased this innovation in his design for the Club Royal condominium, featuring a 41.5-meter long cellular beam. This pioneering approach was endorsed by Thai engineering professor Somsak Khumplew.[SK] By integrating cellular beams into residential buildings, Kleff brought cutting-edge structural engineering innovations to both the local and broader Thai industry, requiring support from local construction authorities.[14]
Recognizing his groundbreaking contributions and dedication, Kleff was honored with a letter of recommendation for a PhD in architecture by Pichet Uthaiwattananota,[15] (Thai: พิเชษฐ อุทัยวัฒนานนท์, (
listen)), the Head of the Construction Department in Pattaya City from 2006 to 2011.
Mario Kleff is a visionary with cutting-edge engineering expertise and a profound understanding of design standards and Thai building codes, but without an official license as an architect in Thailand. He handles all architectural demands, from master planning to interior design, using innovative technologies to ensure structural excellence. A German with Thai work permit as a building designer and building engineerconsultant since 2004[16], he collaborates with Dr. Songkiat Matupayont, a former student of Kumplew, earning recognition for projects like Park Royal 2 and The Touch®. Although Dr. Matupayont recommended him for an honorary doctorate in engineering in 2011, citizenship constraints prevented it.
In 2016, Mario Kleff became a Thai citizen, taking the name Bhumeth Issarasilp[17], later changed to Thiti Teerachin (Thai: ธิติ ธีรชินทร์).
By June 2021, he launched Wandeegroup Asia Co Ltd, securing contracts for two residential projects in Pattaya. One project features a 48-meter long-span cellular beam, supported by British citizen Phil Williams, setting a new construction benchmark. Another project, with 30-meter long prestressed concretegirder and post-tensionedfoundation, was supported by Chinese investor Liu Wei and built with the strongest concrete mixture available in Thailand, supported by CPAC (The Concrete Products And Aggregate Co. Ltd).[18][19][20][21]
CITATION16. ^ Mario Kleff's work permit No. 1134/47 as a building designer, engineer and construction supervisor, director of Wandeegroup, including updates, issued 2004, Chonburi, Thailand.
Despite setbacks in some projects, Kleff's firm, Wandeegroup Asia, was entrusted in 2023 with developing ultra-luxury pool villas using a new mixture of UHPC (Micro-reinforced ultra-high-performance concrete) to fabricate concrete beams that can span over 70 meters between two pillars.[UC] In 2024, Mario Kleff made a comeback as a real estate developer with a residential project consisting of three-story pool villas.
The Wongamat Tower, often referred to as Wong Amat Tower, is a towering 38-story edifice comprising 361 units, completed in 2015 and situated in Pattaya Nuea. Designed by Mario Kleff in 2008,[22] its architectural brilliance encompasses comprehensive planning, detailed structural drawing, innovative use of cellular beams, and a modular design approach.
As the design evolved, the initial steel frame was revamped, making way for reinforced concrete column and post-tensioned slab.[24] This tower marks Mario Kleff's inaugural foray into high-rise constructions.
While the building's design is under Mario Kleff's copyright, he granted Heights Holdings permission for modifications in 2011.[25] Distinguishing features include its expansive design and an earthquake-resistant structure.
CITATION25. ^ Agreement to change designs and plans of the Wongamat Tower Mario Kleff remains the architect and copyright holder on the Wongamat Tower, (language: English), between Laguna Long Beach Height Two Co Ltd and Wandee Real Estate and Services Co Ltd, 09-09-2011, Thailand.
At the Wong Amat Tower construction site in Pattaya (Thai: พัทยา, RTGS: Phatthaya; pronounced [pʰát.tʰā.jāː] (
listen)), Mario Kleff, Heights Holdings CEO Haim Bar-David, and Wandeegroup workers are pictured together on a steel girder, ready to start
construction of the exhibition building Showroom Wong Amat Tower.[23][Sig.]
Perched atop Phra Tamnak Hill in Pattaya, The Touch® is a striking 33-story skyscraper designed to be both iconic and monumental.[26] Its engineering marvel is showcased with two pillars holding up the structure and an impressive 25-meter construction span between these pillars, making it Thailand's pioneering high-rise of this design.
As the brainchild of Mario Kleff, who served as both its designer and developer,[27]its construction was greenlit in December 2011.[28] However, before its completion, the project changed hands and was rebranded as Andromeda on the same foundation.
The Touch® is characterized by a sleek glass façade, reinforced hollow-core concrete columns, 25-meter spanning cellular steel box girders, uninterrupted sea vistas, variable ceiling heights ranging from 4 to 9 meters, and earthquake-resistant features. Its eponymous Touch® denotes a technological integration, allowing users to control building systems via a smartphone app, an innovation crafted by Mario Kleff in 2010.
Park Royal 2
Park Royal 2 is a eight-story residential structure featuring 85 units, finalized in 2011. It's a sibling to Park Royal Series in Pattaya, as well as Laguna Bay 1+2. Signature design elements encompass the employment of cellular beams and post-tensioned concrete.
Japanese House II
Situated on Phra Tamnak Hill, the Japanese House II is a two-story villa realized in 2009. Designed by Mario Kleff, its architectural signature lies in the extensive use of concrete and steel,
long span design, of over a hundred bored piles.[29]
Kleff's immersion in Japanese design philosophy and mathematics in the early 1990s enriched his approach, leading to projects like Villa Futureproof in 2004, which merged German engineering with Japanese design. His 2020 design for a luxurious seaside residence near Cape Town, featuring eight 60-meter-long post-tensioned concrete girders, exemplifies his innovative use of materials, although construction is pending as of 2022.
Wing House in 2008
Kleff's designs often include vast, column-free spaces achieved through expansivebox girders and prestressed concrete beams. Some of his works feature cantilever extending over 20 meters or structures over 50 meters tall supported by a single column. His projects enable clients to enjoy luxuryvillas with panoramic sea views extending up to 70 meters in one room space.
Villa Futureproof in 2005
In his interior designs, Kleff prefers using superior materials like concrete, stone, steel, and excotic hard wood like Makha, Teak and Siam Rosewood, avoiding typical decorating techniques. His approach is characterized by the creation of distinctive furniture and interior design, highlighting his uncompromising dedication to quality and innovation in modern architecture.[30][31]
STAAD, developed by Bentley Systems, is a structural analysis and design software used by engineers to analyze and design structures.
Autodesk BIM 360
Started 2019
Real estate development and construction
Autodesk BIM 360 is a cloud-based construction management software designed to support project delivery, improve project outcomes, and reduce risk by providing real-time collaboration and data sharing across the project lifecycle.
Autodesk Maya is a professional 3D computer graphics software used for creating interactive 3D applications, including video games, animated films, TV series, and visual effects.
AutoCAD is a versatile computer-aided design (CAD) software used by architects, engineers, and construction professionals to create precise 2D and 3D drawings.
Modeling and design presentation in vehicle industry
Autodesk 3ds Max is a professional 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software used in various industries, including game development, film, and architecture.
The Quantel Paintbox Workstation was a pioneering digital paint and graphics workstation introduced in the late 1980s.
vCustom motorcycles
Diving into the realm of Mario Kleff custom motorcycles is an exhilarating journey through craftsmanship, innovation, and self-expression.[w2] Each bike tells a story, reflecting the unique vision of its creator and the intricate balance between aesthetics and speed. From chopper to café racer, custom motorcycles embody the spirit of individuality, breaking free from the mold and taking riders to a world where design meets the open road.
1000hp truck in 2012
Mario Kleff epitomizes a "high-performance lifestyle", which naturally extends to his passion for high-octane vehicles.[32]Over the years, Kleff has masterminded an array of extreme custom car and custom motorcycle, even delving into the creation of bespoke internal combustion engines when required. Engine suppliers from the USA, Italy, England, and Germany have provided him with car engines boasting engine displacement up to 803.0 cu in / 13,159 cubic centimeter and a staggering 1,700 horsepower, as well as motorcycle engines that reach up to 222 cu in (3,638 cc) and a robust 1,000 hp.[33] Taking full control of the customization process, Mario designs chassis, body, wheels, and brakes to ensure optimal handling and safety. His creations evolve from intricate computer-aided design (CAD) sketches and detailed computer-generated imagery (CGI) renderings, eventually taking tangible form through precision CNC machining and expert welding in his workshop.
Mario Kleff's innovative flair extends to scooter, crafting powerful models like Vespa equipped with V2 turbo engines featuring 155 cu in (2,540 cc) displacement.[V] His iconic creations include the infamous Mod Dam 1199 R (Thai: มดดำ, (
listen)), which marries a Honda MSX with a cutting-edge engine from renowned motorcycle developers, Ducati Corse, particularly their flagship Panigale 1199 R. Additionally, the Honda Grom he crafted, known as the Super Mario, is turbocharged with a Suzuki Hayabusa engine by Big CC Racing, making it arguably the world's most formidable minibike, boasting close to 800hp on its rear wheel.
Mario Kleff's motorcycle journey began in earnest in 1986. Initially drawn to iconic brands like Harley Davidson, his keen understanding of engines like the original Shovelhead and Evolution led him to innovate, enhancing performance with superior materials to augment both stability and lifespan. Kleff's prowess in motorcycle design birthed an array of bobber and chopper. Each ride, a mobile masterpiece, graced the streets of Thailand, with notable mentions including the Bobba v.3 155 cu in (2,606 cc), the Black Mamba I+II 155 cu in (2,540 cc), the Thailand Dragon 222 cu in (3,638 cc), and the Purple Rain v.2 155 cu in (2,540 cc). In crafting these machines, Mario Kleff opts for the finest materials, such as titanium, aerospace aluminum, magnesium, metal matrix composite and carbon fibers.
Purple Rain v.2 in 2012
vLife with leopards
Mario Kleff's deep connection with wildlife began in his early years in Libya and Chad, and further developed in Maharashtra during the 1990s. These experiences instilled in him a profound passion for wildlife, especially leopards and jaguars. Around the turn of the millennium, his time in India intensified his commitment to wildlife conservation.[b]
In 2015, a pivotal event occurred when Kleff witnessed the birth of two leopards in Thailand, whom he named Fasai and Typhoon. He decided to adopt and care for them, integrating them into his daily life both at home and work.[l][lp][34][35]
.jpg "Haus Herresberg, Remagen")
listen
,_designed_by_Mario_Kleff.jpg "Welcome to Pattaya (bird view), designed by Mario Kleff")
