SENTIMENT IN TRADITIONAL THAI ARCHITECTURE

Abstract

Traditional Thai Architecture was initially created from Thai behavior on the basis of beliefs. Each feature, for instance, had different decorated styles; nevertheless, they had the same main function such as Spaces created by separated time zoning, split step floors, being made of natural material and prefabricated building elements. This article aims to analyze the spiritual aspect of Traditional Thai Architecture by the Systems Method. The results imply that knowledge of Thai ancestry was forged from the former environment; furthermore, the appearance appealed to all six common human contact points of eye, ear, nose, tongue, body and mind. Consequently, the buildings and the surroundings were plentiful in their display of visibleobjects, sounds, aromas, tastes, touch and mind-objects. The entire system of appearance generated the Sentiment of Traditional Thai Architecture. This should be a clue to the fact that the transition between human needs and Thai culture is Traditional Thai Architecture. The results show that eye contact, ear contact, and body contact influence perception to enhance the value of Traditional Thai Architecture. Therefore, today’s Thai Architecture should be adapted to these criteria, which should be considered by designer, for conserving Traditional Thai Architecture.