Thai architecture is an eclectic synthesis of local and foreign influences, reflecting people’s livelihood, culture and faith.
Traditional buildings were often elevated several feet above ground to keep them dry during rainy season and protect occupants from tropical heat. These elevated homes could also be used for storage, crafting and lounging during daytime hours.
Pre-fabrication system
Prefabricated building systems in Thailand have seen a meteoric rise in popularity due to their efficiency and speed during construction. Not only that, but these buildings offer great opportunities to save both time and money through cost-saving measures.
Prefabrication is a construction method in which the design and fabrication of a structure is done at a factory or other manufacturing location before it’s transported to be assembled on-site. This allows various components to be assembled and tested under controlled conditions before being installed on-site.
Prefabrication offers architects an unprecedented degree of freedom when creating structures. The system works particularly well when designing and manufacturing buildings that will be utilized in multiple spaces, such as offices, commercial areas, residential communities, healthcare settings or educational establishments.
There is a wide range of systems that fit this bill, such as component (or subassembly) systems, panelised systems, volumetric systems and modular ones. Each has its own advantages which make them suitable for various building types.
One of the primary advantages of prefabrication is that it requires minimal environmental impact. Unlike on-site construction, which often wreaks havoc due to construction traffic, power outages and other issues, prefabrication guarantees a secure atmosphere for construction activities.
Another aspect that makes prefabrication so successful is the use of computer-aided design systems like BIM for building projects, which ensure any errors can be rectified beforehand and reduces the potential for costly missteps.
As the industry transitions towards a more sustainable future, prefabrication has become an increasingly attractive option for building owners and property developers. It enables architects to craft designs that satisfy human needs while still meeting client construction deadlines and speed-to-market objectives.
In addition, the system offers a host of other advantages that are especially advantageous for commercial or high-rise projects. Furthermore, it’s an economically feasible way to construct buildings; on average, prices around US$20 per square foot – significantly cheaper than what would have to be spent onsite for similar buildings.
Pillar structures
Pillar structures are an essential element of Thai architecture, supporting roofs, second floors and ceilings to make buildings structurally sound and safe. They can be made from various materials like stone, brick, wood or metal and may feature decorative features to match the surrounding architecture and decor.
Pillars are commonly employed in structural engineering projects. Not only do they support heavy loads, but their cylindrical or square shape allows for many creative designs.
These structures can be constructed out of a range of materials and often feature carving or painting to give them an eye-catching aesthetic. They tend to be shorter in height compared to columns, having thicker structures which makes them stronger and more resistant to damage; they’re capable of supporting heavier loads per unit volume.
Thai architecture often features pillars to support temples. These structures are decorated to resemble Buddha images with intricate carvings, moldings, and paint.
The design of roofs and exterior verandas can vary by region. North Thailand, for instance, features slender rooftops with an upward look – this style is often seen in traditional Lanna-style houses that feature “kalae” (v-shaped) wooden decorations on their gable end peaks.
In the rainy season, these homes may be elevated off the ground on stilts to prevent flooding. The space beneath the house is often utilized for storage and crafts projects; some families even keep livestock such as chickens or ducks there.
Thai architecture is renowned for its use of curved roofs, creating an airy atmosphere inside buildings. These roofs may be crowned with intricate gold Buddha images or figures depicting natural elements.
Traditional Thai architectural style draws upon influences from Indian, Khmer and Burmese styles. Although Western-influenced elements have been introduced, it retains its distinctive Thai character that remains grounded in Buddhist principles and beliefs. It’s easily identified by steeply-sloping tile roofs, lush gardens and ornamental decorations.
Salas
Traditional Thai architecture relied heavily on salas (pavilions) as a basic building form. While they typically had an open plan and relied on natural elements for structural support, these structures could be elaborated with more durable materials when serving an important programmatic purpose.
These open pavilions were typically rectangular in shape and built from wood or brick pillars. They served to provide spaces where people could rest or take time for quiet reflection and meditation.
They were also used for ceremonies and religious events. Buddhist temples decorated them with statues and paintings of Buddha.
Another basic style of salas is the spire, which features multiple tiers of redented squares that diminish in size as they rise towards a thin conical tip. In palace buildings, these spires often feature garuda figures holding nagas – an emblematic representation of Thai royalty.
Spires were also commonly used in prasat halls, which host less important Buddhist ceremonies and rituals. These spires usually had seven-tiered bases with roof tiers adorned with small finials representing nagas and garudas.
These spires are easily identified by their redentted corners at each main angle, giving them a curved appearance. This design was likely derived from an ancient type of chedi known as the “chedi liam yaw moommai”, in which smaller angles are evenly spaced at each main corner.
These redentted pillars can be found in many Thai temples and palaces. They were also popular during early Sukhothai and U-thong periods when they were carved from brick or stone for viharn walls.
Art Deco buildings are often featured in Bangkok. This style was born out of the influx of European architects and engineers into Thailand during the early 20th century, and can be seen throughout Hua Lamphong Rail Station or Governor’s House along Ratchadamnoen Avenue.
Sala Ayutthaya is an example of how modern architecture can be employed to breathe life into historic settings. Its overlapping curve roofs are made from Cedar shingles that can be seen from a distance, creating an enchanting sense of curvilinearity. The hotel’s waterside deck also responds to seasonal changes with steps leading down one storey to the river’s level for a picturesque scene. Plus, there are tropical Krading-Nangfa trees whose bell-shaped flowers bloom in warm climates.
Open spaces
Many Thai buildings feature open spaces, which are an essential element in traditional house designs. This provides for excellent ventilation and provides residents with plenty of fresh air.
Chaan are communal spaces found in cluster houses, where cabins are connected by walkways. Here, people often sun-dry produce and engage in other activities.
Thai families require outdoor spaces to dry their belongings during flood seasons, as many live in flood-prone areas. Therefore, having access to such an area is vital for their well-being and survival.
In addition, chaans can often be transformed into gardens for decorative plants or flowers. This is especially beneficial in houses situated near canals or rivers as it allows residents to utilize the space for more than just sun-drying.
Thai architecture, known as chaan, has remained relatively unchanged over centuries due to its shapes being inscribed into the country’s cultural fabric since ancient times.
Shapes form the basis of Thai art, inspiring architects to design structures with unique identities based on their relationship to other elements.
Some of these shapes carry spiritual significance as well. For instance, Buddha images are commonly placed between two walls to ensure they can sit comfortably and remain secure – a tradition dating back to the Buddha’s time which continues today.
Thai architecture is a reflection of Buddhist teachings. Meditation, an essential Buddhist practice, often emphasizes space and separation of thoughts from ones physical body. This concept can be seen in temples and other Buddhist buildings alike.
Bangkok is increasingly embracing open spaces as an integral component of sustainability, helping to improve quality of life in the city, increase property values and incentivize sustainable behavior among its inhabitants.