Material Selection for Low-income Housing in Mangrove Areas : A Case Study of Ban Bang Phat, Phang Nga Province

Abstract

The lack of housing security for low-income residents in mangrove areas along Thailand’s Andaman coast is a complex issue, influenced by environmental, economic, and legal constraints—particularly in conservation zones where housing development is restricted. This research examines how low-income households in these areas select construction materials, using the concepts of affordable housing and vernacular architecture as analytical frameworks. The case study focuses on Ban Bang Phat community in Phang Nga Province, Data were collected through site surveys, interviews with homeowners and builders, and community participation.

Findings reveal three main material selection strategies: 1) cost-saving materials such as mangrove wood and plywood, which are affordable but require frequent maintenance; 2) long-term durability materials like reinforced concrete, ceramic tiles, and masonry, which have higher upfront costs but reduce future maintenance; and 3) materials chosen for convenience and ease of construction, such as processed wood and prefabricated panels, balancing familiarity and affordability.

Material choices are closely linked to household income, construction knowledge, and the unique environmental conditions of mangrove zones, including high humidity, soft soil, and salt corrosion. Despite limitations, communities adapt by choosing flexible, locally available materials that align with their needs and environmental challenges.