Thai Vernacular Architecture: The Whole of Nature, Belief, Life, and Aesthetic Design

Abstract

Existing knowledge of the Thai traditional house focuses mainly on the value of it’s physical form, structure, and shape. The present study reveals that the concepts of simplicity, delicacy, flexibility, energy saving, and harmoniously with environment are the integral parts of the Thai traditional house. It reflects local people’s world view, creativity, intelligence, belief, and life style. People use local materials that are available to them combine with their knowledge and technology to construct the house that correspond to their needs. The traditional Thai house is a genuine product derived from local wisdom and thus can be considered one of the most precious cultural heritage of the Thai society.