The Opportunities and Limitations of Conservation-Oriented Shophouses Renovation Among Entrepreneurs Owning Properties in the Old Town of Nakhon Ratchasima

Abstract

Nakhon Ratchasima Old Town, especially Chomphon Road, is an area with historical and architectural value, but now faces physical and economic stagnation. This article aims to study the opportunities and limitations of protected building renovation, as well as the attitudes of commercial building owners, through four case studies, physical surveys, and in-depth interviews.

Research has found that an essential opportunity is for all building owners to have optimistic attitude towards conservation and appreciate the historical value of the building, which is expressed differently in each case. intimate relationships with the family and community levels, and have economic stability staus. In most cases, buildings still maintain their original state and have the potential to develop into tourism activities. The restrictions include that all owners do not have clear business and building transfer plans, and a certain building has renovated. but other buildings have been partially renovated, also termite infested wooden buildings. Reinforced concrete buildings have roof leakage issues. Although renovation is needed, A lack of expert consultation and maintenance remained

From the study of the conservation guidelines of Phuket Old Town found that the integration of the public sector and the mechanisms within the community are major factors in driving conservation. Therefore, guidelines for establishing a network of building owners, disseminating examples, and adjusting the roles of local administration to provide proactive support through informal participation processes are proposed.