Architecture of Thailand

Influenced by the architectural traditions of many of Thailand's cultures, it has also developed significant regional variation within its vernacular and religious buildings.

In an attempt to become distinguished, Thailand's ruling elite gravitated toward selective Modernization to avoid the undesired Western influence.

The architecture of Authong integrated the art of Tawaravadee civilization such as the building style of Phra Prang in Wat Sri Rattana Mahai.

During the latter part of the Ayutthaya period, architecture was regarded as a peak achievement that responded to the requirements of people and expressed the gracefulness of Thainess.

During the reign of King Rama III, Thai art and architecture was influenced by the Chinese, through trade and diplomacy.

[2] One universal aspect of Thailand's traditional architecture is the elevation of its buildings on stilts, most commonly to around head height.

The houses were raised due to the fact that many Thai villages are centered around rivers and canals, which are subject to flooding during the rain season.

An area in the middle of the terrace is often left open to allow the growth of a tree through the structure, providing welcome shade.

In the past there were strict taboos regarding which plants could be placed directly around the house (in current times these are often ignored for the sake of aesthetics).

The level of the floor changes as one moves from room to terrace, providing a wide variety of positions for sitting or lounging around the living areas.

Typically a monastery consists of a number of these buildings grouped together on a shared terrace, either in an inward facing cluster or aligned in a row.

The Thai notion of fear centres on the "spiritual world" such as "ghosts, unseen forces, and evil spirits".

Thai traditional houses are built in accordance with three ancient principles: "material preparation, construction, and dwelling" (Phraya Anumanrajathon, quoted in Karnchanaporn).

Materials, including site and orientation, the taste and smell of soil, and the names of trees that will be used to build houses and so on, will be carefully chosen.

In recent times, building houses following traditional rituals has diminished in popularity due to Western influences.

Karnchanaporn explained that in the past, house sanctification rituals were normally observed automatically, and the ways of performing them were passed to younger generations.

In contrast, modern people believe that "improper ritual can pollute spiritual protection" and thus, can lead to disaster.