And even though steel and concrete are still the most cost-effective materials, new combinations of these substances provide greater strength and fire retardance, says W. Gene Corley, senior vice president at Construction Technology Laboratories in Skokie, Ill.

FORBES: They Will Rise Again

According to the source, the "W" visa would affect housekeepers, landscapers, retail workers and some construction workers.

CNN: Sides reach broad agreement on immigrant guest workers

Nearby in the Sathorn district, the super-chic, 407-room W Bangkok hotel opened its doors in December 2012 (parts of the hotel are still under construction).

BBC: Business trip: Bangkok