Abstract:
The physical geography of the central region
of Thailand is mostly the alluvium plain
caused by sediment from alluvium. This kind
of plateau is large, but not too high from the
sea level, which is always flooded.
Streams bring humus and cause
sedimentation then fertility for cultivated
area which can be reflected by expression as
'there are fish in the water and there is rice in
the field'. Also, rivers and streams are for
transportation which was one of the main
factors causing linear settlement.
Lifestyles of Thai people have directly related
with water and basins, especially in the
central region. People have been living
compatibly with environment, reflected by
ways of life and local wisdom in the
vernacular architecture comprising distinctive
characteristics including construction
materials, technology, as well as creation of
accommodations which bring about the
unique cultural landscapes.
The study revealed that vernacular
architecture along the water shed in the
central region of Thailand can be categorized
as floating houses, houses on stilt made of
wood, bamboo houses, and shop houses. The
wisdom and knowledge used in the
construction of such vernacular architecture
are not academic, in other words, they do not
follow lessons taught in academic institutes,
but from learning and adaptation of lifestyle
to their surroundings. This then becomes the
local wisdom which can practically be helpful
under each individual ecological system and
local culture.
