ARCHITECTURE –
A detailed, profusely illustrated survey of Thai architecture with its many styles and forms.
This detailed, magnificently illustrated survey shows how Thai architecture has evolved over the years to become a significant cultural art form. Beginning with a history of the country and its wide cultural influences, it goes on to describe and illustrate a huge range of structures, from Thai houses to elaborate temples and even crematoriums. It concludes with a look at contemporary Thai architecture and how traditional architecture practices have been adapted to suit modern needs.
Thailand’s architecture comes alive in this magnificently illustrated volume, the most comprehensive book on the subject yet published, exploring every genre from houses and farm huts to temples, palaces, and modern buildings. It is the first major book to focus on the myriad elements that make Thai architecture so rich in beauty and meaning. With hundreds of images by leading photographers, this is an accessible, inspirational source book for designers, architects, and everyone interested in Southeast Asian culture.
The book is a collaboration between leading architect Nithi Sthapitanonda, who did the drawings, photographs, and research support, and writer Brian Mertens, who did the writing, main research, and many photos. 800+ illustrations in color and black and white.
- Raised Foundations: A key characteristic is building structures on stilts to protect against flooding, allow for air circulation, and deter wild animals. The space underneath is often a functional area.
- Steep, Multi-Tiered Roofs: Temple and palace roofs are steeply pitched with multiple, overlapping tiers to efficiently deflect heavy rainfall. This design also creates a sense of lightness and grandeur and is often topped with chofa, bird-like finials.
- Natural Materials: Traditional houses often use locally sourced materials like wood and bamboo, assembled with intricate rope systems rather than iron nails.
- Symbolism and Ornamentation: Religious buildings feature rich ornamentation with intricate wood carvings, stucco work, and glass mosaics. These designs often depict mythological figures (nagas, garudas) and scenes from Buddhist cosmology, reflecting a deep spiritual meaning and social hierarchy.
- Regional Variations: Styles differ across regions, with northern Thailand (Lan Na style) featuring roofs that are very pointed and flare outwards, while central Thai architecture has a more uniform, royal-influenced style.
- Blending Tradition with Modernity: Contemporary architects often incorporate traditional elements like extended eaves (for sun and rain protection), open floor plans, and courtyards to suit the climate, but use modern materials like steel and concrete.
- Sustainability and Climate Control: Modern designs often incorporate eco-friendly materials and passive cooling strategies (natural ventilation, large overhangs) to reduce reliance on air conditioning, a concept rooted in traditional practices.
- Notable Structures: Modern architectural landmarks that demonstrate the blending of styles include the Jim Thompson House (a traditional house reassembled in an urban setting) and contemporary high-rises like the MahaNakhon building in Bangkok, known for its pixelated appearance.