Sarasatr: Journal of Architecture and Design

A Survey of Design Industry Demands in Thailand in 2025 and Guidelines for Curriculum Development for Design Personnel Outside the Higher Education System

Thanathorn Kittikant — 2026-04-24

This research aimed to analyze the demands of the Thai design industry to inform the development of a flexible, non-formal curriculum structure and content under the national "One Family One Soft Power (OFOS)" initiative. The study employed a qualitative methodology, gathering primary data through in-depth interviews with two key stakeholder groups: representatives from 15 design policy agencies (focusing on SWOT analysis and human resource needs) and members of a regional educational network (four major universities), who assessed institutional readiness and the feasibility of a Credit Bank system.

Findings revealed a significant talent shortage and a critical misalignment between educational outputs and market needs. While sectors like UX/UI, Experience Design, and Digital Content are growing rapidly, graduates often lack essential practical skills, socio-cultural contextual understanding, and entrepreneurial motivation. Recommendations emphasized a pedagogical shift toward Hybrid Learning and Work-integrated Learning (WIL) that actively engages local communities and businesses. Crucially, the target audience must be flexible, encompassing the designer-to-be, professional designers, and design entrepreneurs.

A Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MDCM) analysis was used to prioritize content based on strategic urgency. The highest-ranked modules were Design for Sustainability and Society, Application of Local Wisdom and Content, and Design Law and Ethics. These findings underscore the need for an agile, contextually rich curriculum that integrates cultural assets and promotes ethical awareness, thereby fostering a resilient and highly skilled workforce that aligns with Thailand’s long-term creative economy strategy.

Design Guidelines for the Interior Physical Environment of Wat Lam Phaya Floating Market to Support Cultural Tourism and Flood Management

Chayasawat Suriyasaransuk — 2026-04-24

This research aimed to 1) study the cultural context and identity of Wat Lam Phaya Floating Market, 2) analyze the appropriateness of contemporary innovations that enhance cultural tourism experiences and support flood adaptation, 3) examine the characteristics of the interior physical environment related to flood management and tourism activities, and 4) propose design guidelines for the interior physical environment that align with local identity, culture, technology, and resilience to flooding. The study employed a Convergent Parallel Mixed Methods approach, collecting quantitative data from 414 questionnaires and qualitative data from four semi-structured interviews and field surveys. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Multinomial Logistic Regression (MLR), while the results were integrated using the Joint Display method.

The quantitative findings indicated that “local food and products” were identified as the most prominent feature (51.4%), while the “hybrid traditional–modern atmosphere” was the most preferred (66.4%). All five MLR models demonstrated acceptable levels of goodness-of-fit. The qualitative results revealed spatial limitations, including narrow walkways, a level difference of approximately 0.90 meters, flood-prone areas averaging 1,270 m², discontinuous surface drainage, and insufficient shaded areas. The community expressed a conditional acceptance of digital innovations when such technologies do not compromise cultural authenticity and the market’s image.

The integrated findings led to five practical design strategies: 1) Cultural Food and Craft Zone 2) Flood-Resilient Innovation 3) Cultural Resting Nodes, 4) Digital Innovation 5) Community Co-management. These strategies were synthesized into the conceptual framework of “Contemporary Cultural Space” which integrates identity, lifestyle, innovation and the interior physical environment to support cultural tourism alongside sustainable flood adaptation.

Housing Transformation in a Flood-Prone Area Through Nature-Based Adaptation: A Case Study of Lad Chado Community, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Tantut Saenton — 2026-04-24

The lower Chao Phraya River basin has undergone significant transformation as decades of infrastructure development have altered natural flood dynamics, affecting traditional communities that had long adapted to seasonal flooding. This study examines the Lad Chado community, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, aiming to investigate physical housing conditions and residents' socioeconomic context, examine housing adaptation under past and present flood dynamics, and analyze alignment with the Nature-based Adaptation concept.

A qualitative approach was employed, selecting three households through purposive sampling with maximum variation logic: a traditional wooden stilt house (Type A), a modified stilt house with enclosed under-floor space (Type B), and a ground-level house on landfill (Type C). Data were collected through aerial photograph comparison (1974 and 2025), field observations, and interviews conducted during the flood season, analyzed through cross-case comparison.

Findings reveal the transition from waterway-dependent to road-dependent livelihoods. Type A demonstrates the strongest alignment with nature-based adaptation through preserved stilt structure and seasonal living practices. Type B shows incremental, unplanned modifications progressively diminishing under-floor functionality and environmental quality. Type C represents a nature-controlling approach permanently disconnecting from the hydrological cycle, driven primarily by road accessibility.

The study concludes that traditional stilt housing constitutes an existing nature-based adaptation asset, while road network expansion accelerates transition toward nature-controlling approaches and potential long-term maladaptation. Recommendations include promoting stilt-house typologies at the household level, implementing land-use controls at the community level, and integrating flood dynamics into infrastructure planning policy to sustain community resilience under climate change.

Tha-Style Pagoda of Wat Ku Tao, Chiang Saen: A Cosmological Symbol and Traces of Chinese Influence in Lanna Buddhist Art

Pathompong Buchabutara — 2026-04-24

This article aims to analyze the Tha-style pagoda of Wat Ku Tao, Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai Province, with two principal objectives: 1) to examine the architectural characteristics of the pagoda and to compare them with Chinese-influenced pagoda forms in other regions, and 2) to analyze the relationship between architectural form and Buddhist cosmological symbolism as embodied in the Tha-style pagoda of Wat Ku Tao, Chiang Saen.

The findings indicate that the Tha-style pagoda of Wat Ku Tao, which is assumed to have been constructed during the reign of King Yot Chiang Rai (ca. 1488–1497 CE), may have emerged as a result of cultural exchange with China during a period when the Lanna Kingdom maintained close relations with the Ming Dynasty. One significant piece of evidence appears in the Ming Shilu (Ming Veritable Records), which records that an envoy from Chiang Mai travelled to the Ming imperial court to request official recognition of King Yot Chiang Rai as the successor to King Tilokaraj. In addition, the study examines the cosmological concepts embodied in the architectural components of the Chinese-style pagoda of Wat Ku Tao, Chiang Saen, which can be analytically classified into four components: 1) the base corresponds to the kāmāvacara (sensual) realms — encompassing the four animal realms, the human realm, and the six deva realms — domains still bound to sense objects (form, sound, smell, taste, touch, and mental phenomena; dhamma); 2) the multi-tiered body signifies the rūpāvacara (form) realms (sixteen) and the arūpāvacara (formless) realms (four), associated with brahmic meditative attainments; 3) the spire symbolizes the lokuttara-bhūmi, the supramundane state attained by noble persons (ariya-puggala) who have realized the Path, Fruition, and nibbāna; and 4) the dewdrop finial at the apex represents anupādisesa-nibbāna — the final cessation of defilements and complete liberation from saṃsāra.

Interpreting the Lanna Tha-style pagoda in this way reveals it as a cultural medium that links indigenous cosmological beliefs with foreign architectural influences. Such interpretation deepens our understanding of Lanna Buddhist art and offers meaningful guidance for the conservation and restoration of its architectural heritage.

Envisioning the Learning City Through the Lens of Social Neuroscience: Transforming Vulnerability into Resilience

Akara Metasuk — 2026-04-24

This academic article presents an approach to developing a learning city through the lens of social neuroscience by considering vulnerability within the context of cities and their inhabitants. This article highlights the possibility of utilizing vulnerability as an asset to foster city resilience. Literature reviews indicate that a sense of safety and the availability of shared spaces for civic engagement can positively impact brain functions related to cognition and learning. This article argues that vulnerability is not a weakness but a vital element that can enhance empathy and develop social capital within the city. City developers must consider the design of safe, inclusive public spaces and learning mechanisms that promote civic interaction. Furthermore, this paper proposes the use of narrative learning as a tool to cultivate civic consciousness and empower citizens to recognize their own agency. Such efforts lead to sustainable urban development that leaves no one behind, ensuring all citizens play a leading role in truly co-creating their own city.

Integrating Eudaimonic Well-Being into Urban Design for Thailand’s Aging Society

Siraprapha Janpaeng — 2026-04-24

The transition toward an aging society has emerged as a structural issue shaping urban development, particularly in developing countries such as Thailand, where significant challenges remain in ensuring the quality of life of older adults. Consequently, the study of well-being has become increasingly important. However, well-being is a complex and multidimensional concept, especially in dimensions that extend beyond temporary happiness or life satisfaction. This deeper dimension is referred to as Eudaimonic Well-Being (EWB).

This article aims to review and synthesize existing research on the factors influencing the eudaimonic well-being of older adults in both international and Thai contexts in order to identify critical research gaps in Thailand. International studies have increasingly moved beyond measuring satisfaction and emotional happiness, commonly defined as hedonic well-being toward examining meaning in life, personal growth, and psychological factors such as autonomy and purpose. In contrast, research in Thailand has largely focused on the physical aspects of the built environment, spatial usage, and safety, or has primarily measured general satisfaction. Such approaches remain insufficient for fully capturing quality of life in the context of meaningful aging.

This article therefore highlights a significant gap in Thai research regarding the integration of eudaimonic well-being into studies of older adults. It further proposes directions for knowledge development to support policies and urban planning strategies that foster meaningful living and enhance the intrinsic value of later life. This integration is essential for advancing age-friendly urban development in rapidly aging societies.

Approaches for Developing Models and Services in Day Centers Within Three Housing Estate Projects in Bueng Yitho Municipality

methavee tanweenukul — 2026-04-24

Thailand has fully entered an ageing society, leading to an increasing demand for community-based elderly care services, particularly elderly multipurpose center located within gated housing estates. This study aims to examine the service-use behaviors and needs of older adults, analyze the operational model of the Bueng Yitho Elderly Quality of Life Development Center, and propose service development directions aligned with the community context.

A mixed methods research design was employed. Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires administered to 315 older adults, classified by their Activities of Daily Living (ADL). Qualitative data were obtained from in-depth interviews with older adults, family members, experts, center administrators and staff, as well as representatives of housing estate juristic persons.

The findings indicate that both socially active older adults and homebound older adults reported a high level of overall satisfaction with the services, particularly in terms of management and physical environment. However, satisfaction with activities and social engagement remained at a moderate level. Qualitative findings reveal that while users were satisfied with the facilities and staff care, limitations were identified in the suitability of activities, group activity dynamics, and conditions related to shared space management and service accessibility within gated housing estates.

The study highlights the importance of improving activity design and strengthening collaborative management with housing estate juristic persons to better accommodate the diverse needs of older adults and the specific living context of housing estates.

Determinants of Housing Issues of the Dependent Elderly in Rang Krathum Subdistrict, Bang Len, Nakhon Pathom

Thanatpong Chanchaiathiroj — 2026-04-24

This study examines determinants of housing issues of dependent elderly in Rang Krathum subdistrict, Banglen, Nakhon Pathom. The seven study cases were categorized by the Barthel Index of Activities of Daily Living (ADL) into two groups: bedbound (ADL 0–4; n=2) and homebound (ADL 5–11; n=5). The study evaluated physical, behavioral, environmental, and socioeconomic dimensions. Findings indicate that housing issues are deeply interconnected with socioeconomic factors—including insufficient income, rising care costs, and lack of social security—forming the root cause. These constraints prevent necessary home modifications, leading to environmental risks such as structural deterioration, slippery surfaces, and impractical accessibility features (ramps/handrails). Furthermore, physical and behavioral constraints, coupled with inconsistent caregiving and unsuitable living spaces, heighten the risk of accidents and complications. The study underscores the urgency of developing safe, sustainable housing to effectively enhance the long-term quality of life for the dependent elderly.

Monitoring of Operational Performance According to the Sustainable and Livable Community Assessment Criteria (Ecovillage 2) of the National Housing Authority of Thailand

Ubonrat Achayata — 2026-04-24

This research aims to investigate the policy, current operational status, obstacles, and development guidelines for the implementation of the “Ecovillage V.2” assessment criteria at the National Housing Authority (NHA). The study employs a qualitative research methodology, utilizing in-depth interviews with four key informants at both policy and operational levels, alongside an analysis of relevant roadmap documents.

The finding reveals that the National Housing Authority (NHA) emphasizes sustainability under the master plan, 'Road Map: Sustain Housing Community (2075),' which mandates that development projects meet the Ecovillage 2 criteria. Currently, the rigorous implementation of these criteria commenced between 2023 and 2024, primarily focusing on evaluations during the pre-construction design phase. However, due to personnel constraints within the Evaluation Division, the assessment process has been adapted. A 'cross-check' evaluation method has been implemented among architects across different divisions within the Project Development Department to ensure internal accuracy.

Key obstacles identified include the rigidity of the Ecovillage V.2 “Checklist” format, which requires compliance with all 18 items; failing a single item results in non-certification. This structure proves problematic for projects with specific physical constraints or “Sunk Cost” projects with pre-existing structures. Furthermore, there is a lack of a centralized unit responsible for systematic monitoring and post-occupancy evaluation. The research recommends transitioning the criteria to a Scoring or Weighting system to enhance flexibility, establishing a dedicated central assessment unit or employing third-party auditors, and promoting an “Assessment Integrated” approach to ensure long-term operational efficiency.

Business Model of Small Real Estate Companies Listed in Stock Exchange of Thailand: Adaptation after COVID-19 Pandemic in 2023

Bussara Povatong — 2026-04-24

This research aims to study the business models of small-sized real estate development companies listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), totaling 24 companies. Data for 2023 was collected from the 56-1 One-Report. The methodology used was content analysis and financial data analysis. The study found that the revenue structure consists of 12 categories, with real estate sales serving as approximately 81% of total income. As the result of COVID-19 crisis, 33% of companies have adapted their business models into four key areas. These include investing in assets that generate multiple income streams and expanding portfolios into various property types beyond residential sales. Furthermore, these firms are expanding their geographic reach in BMA and potential tourism provinces, while also broadening their property across various price segments. Regarding the 2023 operating results, only 50% of small-sized firms reported a positive net profit. Companies with revenues of 4 billion baht or more maintained positive gross and net profit margins, benefited from lower financing costs, and demonstrated a higher interest coverage ratio. Meanwhile, firms with revenues below 2 billion baht faced high financing costs, leading to net losses. Notably, some firms in this lower revenue bracket that diversified their business for more than 50% of total income, many still experienced losses due to high financial costs. The findings provide a deeper understanding of business adaptive strategies, and the financial factors impacting their performance. These findings offer lessons learned that other firms can leverage to adapt their strategies in the future.

Bond Issuance Strategies of Real Estate Development Companies Listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand Before and After COVID-19 from 2018 to 2024

Pimpisuth Peungphacha — 2026-04-24

Housing developers are major issuers in the Thai debt market, particularly amidst COVID-19 funding constraints. This study examines the bond issuance strategies of 31 developers listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (2018–2024). Utilizing 56-1 One Reports and SEC debt filings, the research analyzes revenue compositions and bond structures to identify the relationships between firm size, residential project types, and issuance strategies.

Empirical findings indicate that: 1) Average high-rise revenue proportions were 35%, 33%, and 43% for large, medium, and small firms, respectively. Small firms derived 38% from low-rise projects and 19% from diversification, increasing cash flow volatility. 2) Regarding issuance objectives, during stable periods, small and large firms prioritized expansion (35% and 33%), while medium firms focused on liquidity (34%). Following 2019 Loan to Value (LTV) regulations, medium and large firms prioritized liquidity, whereas small firms focused on refinancing from 2023. 3) Regarding bond characteristics, since 2019, zero-coupon short-term bonds were used across all sizes to minimize costs. During and after the pandemic, medium and large firms leveraged these instruments at 70% and 81%, versus 49% for small firms. Consequently, small firms were required to issue higher-yield short-term and long-term bonds to attract investors, increasing average financial costs.

In conclusion, large and medium firms consistently issue bonds at lower costs than small firms across economic cycles. To mitigate rollover risks, small firms rely on diverse, high-yield instruments, increasing financial costs and hindering performance. These insights assist developers in optimizing project-mix portfolios to effectively manage financial costs and risks amidst economic fluctuations.

Decision-Making of Developers in Joining the Investment Promotion Measures for Low-Income Housing of Condominium Type (BOI Condos) in Bangkok Metropolitan Region from 2020 to 2024

Sinjana Kanpakdee — 2026-04-24

Encouraging private sector participation in the development of Affordable housing requires effective tax incentive measures, particularly through the BOI condos. This study examines developers’ decision-making in joining investment promotion measures for low-income (BOI Condos) by analyzing project characteristics, influencing factors, advantages, limitations, and performance outcomes. The study focuses on four real estate developers, including both listed and non-listed firms: Sena Development Public Company Limited, L.P.N. Development Public Company Limited, Diamond Ratchada Housing Co., Ltd., and Praeksa Land Co., Ltd.

The findings revealed that: 1) BOI Condos are predominantly low-rise projects comprising 200–500 units located in suburban Bangkok and its vicinity. These characteristics reflect the interrelationship among land cost, project scale, facilities, and BOI conditions, demonstrating that the policy significantly shapes housing supply patterns. 2) Listed firms adopt the BOI scheme as a long-term strategy and participate continuously, whereas non-listed firms engage on a project-by-project basis. Although tax incentives motivate all firms, participation depends largely on organizational capacity and capital structure. 3) BOI Condos offer advantages in reducing tax burdens and enhancing competitiveness. However, regulatory rigidity and policy uncertainty increase planning risks and may influence participation decisions.

The BOI measure supports affordable housing development by reducing corporate tax burdens, allowing firms to convert these savings into marketing advantages. Thus, firms that benefit most are those integrating low-income housing into their long-term corporate strategies. However, this study focuses primarily on developers’ perspectives, future research should extend to homebuyers to assess the broader impacts of BOI Condos.

Marketing Strategies of Sustainable Certified Hotels: A Case Study of Hotels in Phuket Province

Chanon Sajjapongse — 2026-04-24

Sustainable tourism in Phuket Province has grown, increasing the importance of marketing strategies for hotels. This study examines the marketing strategies of certified hotels and lessons learned sustainable concepts. Case study focusing on three hotels with different star ratings 3-star hotel (Ibis Phuket Patong), 4-star hotel (Phuket Orchid Resort and Spa), and 5-star hotel (Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort). Data were collected through interviews and hotel websites, analyzed by using comparative analysis based on marketing strategy.

The findings indicate that 1) hotel operators’ decisions to adopt sustainable certified are influenced by location, organizational policies, and demand. 2) All three hotels integrate sustainability as a core element of STP marketing to strengthen brand identity. 3) sustainable marketing strategies vary by hotel stars. The 3-star hotel uses the product and price. The 4-star hotel emphasizes product, promotion and physical evidence. The 5-star hotel focuses on product, promotion, and physical evidence. 4) Sustainable offers long-term business by enhancing hotel image, Also have limitations, including higher financial costs, longer staff training periods, and remove some activities that are environmentally harmful like jet ski to protect ecosystems.

In conclusion, sustainability certification is a global concept that reflects social and environmental responsibility, making it necessary for hotels to implement sustainability practices. The case studies highlight both the benefits of being a sustainable hotel such as enhanced image and reduced use of natural resources—and the limitations, including costs, time, personnel development, and restrictions on certain activities to preserve the ecosystem.

The Pattern of Office Space Utilization in Urban Area to Meet the Requirements of Business Sector in the Industry for Thailand's Development

Sukulpat Khumpaisal — 2026-04-24

This research aimed to investigate the urban office space utilization preferences among employees of companies or organizations within Thailand s-curve industries, including to examine the demographic characteristics and work-related attributes of these employees that influence their level of urban office space utilization preferences, as well as a comparative analysis is conducted to explore differences in urban office space utilization preferences between employees in Thailand’s first s-curve industries and new s-curve industries. Data were collected through a questionnaire survey administered to 300 employees of companies or organizations within Thailand s-curve industries. The sample was divided into two groups: five of Thailand’s first s-curve industries and five of Thailand’s first s-curve industries, with 30 respondents representing each industry. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and research hypotheses were tested using t-tests and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The findings show that respondents expressed a high to very high level of urban office space utilization preferences. Semi-public zones were identified as the most highly demanded, as they facilitate collaboration, knowledge exchange, and communication among employees. This preference is consistent with the nature of work in Thailand s-curve industries, which emphasize innovation and the integration of multidisciplinary knowledge. This was followed by private zones, which reflect the need to balance collaborative work with tasks requiring concentration and individual focus, and public zones, which primarily contribute to the creation of a conducive work atmosphere and the enhancement of organizational image rather than serving as core functional work areas, respectively. At the item-specific level, workspaces and meeting rooms emerged as the office space types with the highest levels of demand among respondents, as these spaces are fundamentally and directly associated with core organizational work processes and productivity outcomes. Respondents need workspaces as small-group offices and cubicle-based workstations with an area exceeding 6.00 square meters, located near office equipment or storage areas and meeting rooms, as well as there was a strong demand for enclosed meeting rooms equipped with video conferencing systems, encompassing small, medium, and large meeting rooms, and situated near waiting areas and pantry spaces for tea, coffee, and beverages. In addition, the hypothesis testing results indicated that marital status, average monthly personal income, work tenure, and the characteristics of the existing workspace significantly influenced respondents’ demand for urban office space utilization. Conversely, the respondents’ current industry sector showed no statistically significant influence on their demand for urban office space utilization. This suggests that urban office space utilization preferences are increasingly shaped by common workforce characteristics and contemporary work practices, rather than by industry-specific differences.

Waste Management Under Care the Whale Project: Case Studies of Office Buildings on Ratchadaphisek Road

Phairat Rattanyu — 2026-04-24

This article examines waste management under the Care the Whale project, a collaborative initiative among office buildings along Ratchadaphisek Road, through four case studies: CW Tower, AIA Capital Centre, SET, and Fortune Town. The problem addressed arises from the volume of waste generated by building users, which increases the overall municipal waste management burden. Data were collected from August 2024 to April 2025 using both quantitative and qualitative methods. The study focuses on two main objectives: 1) to understand the concepts and mechanisms for building an environmental collaboration network, and 2) to investigate the waste management processes in each case study under a shared operational framework. The findings show that an organizational network is employed as the core mechanism linking partners from four key sectors under common goals, with the Care the Whale Calculator and knowledge-sharing activities serving as tools for monitoring progress and disseminating best practices. The study also finds that waste management processes differ according to building use, types of building users, and internal management structures, covering steps from policy and target setting, communication, participation, waste sorting and collection, to data recording and reporting. Evidence from the case studies allows the projects to be classified into three developmental levels—basic projects, expansion projects, and efficiency-enhancement projects—which reflect the progression of waste management practices and lead to the formulation of a framework for sustainable waste management in office buildings in Thailand.

A Study of Building Deterioration Levels: A Case Study of the Dean’s Office, School of Architecture, Art and Design, King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang

Supitcha Foongfuang — 2026-04-24

This article is part of a thesis entitled “A Study of Guidelines and Budgeting for Building Renovation: A Case Study of the Dean’s Office, Faculty of Architecture, Art and Design, King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang.” The objective of this study is to investigate the deterioration conditions and classify the levels of deterioration of the Dean’s Office building, which has been in continuous use for more than 50 years. Prolonged usage has resulted in physical deterioration, degradation of construction materials, and decline in building systems.

This study adopts a survey-based approach, involving on-site building inspections, data collection through observation, area measurements, and photographic documentation. In addition, relevant literature on building inspection and condition assessment was reviewed. The collected data were analyzed to evaluate the levels of deterioration of both interior and exterior building components. The assessment criteria were classified into three levels: usable condition, requiring repair and improvement, and requiring replacement.

The results indicate that most building components remain in a usable condition or require repair and improvement, while some components fall into the replacement category. These conditions may affect safety and operational efficiency. The results of this study can serve as baseline information for future maintenance planning, repair, and renovation of the building, to extend its service life and enhance its suitability for continued use.

Guideline for the Development of Rest Areas Within Gas Stations Under the Rest Area Concept: A Case Study of PT Max Camp in the Bangkok Metropolitan Region

panjama salangam — 2026-04-24

Road transportation expansion has led to persistent congestion, making safe rest areas essential for driver recuperation. This research examines design principles, analyzes physical conditions, and explores user behaviors to formulate enhancement guidelines for petrol station rest facilities. A mixed-methods approach was employed-integrating physical surveys, questionnaires, and in-depth interviews-using PT Max Camp across four major Bangkok branches as the primary case study.

Findings indicate that international standards emphasize human-centered design and physical restoration to mitigate long-distance driving accidents. However, analysis reveals significant user concerns regarding property security in shower and rest areas. User behaviors are categorized into two cohorts: 1) Regular users, who integrate these facilities into occupational routines and prioritize shower quality; and 2) Occasional users. Accordingly, development strategies are proposed in two dimensions: administrative management, focusing on security protocols and overnight accommodations; and service enhancement, prioritizing core facilities-specifically shower rooms and secure lockers-to align with actual usage patterns.

In conclusion, fuel stations have significant potential as comprehensive roadside rest areas due to their infrastructure. The study proposes physical modifications to enhance privacy and optimize spatial utility for diverse requirements. These findings establish a strategic framework for the sustainable infrastructure development and the promotion of long-term travel safety.

Conservation and Restoration Guidelines for Historical Heritage Buildings: A Case Study of Talad Lang Community, Lop Buri Province

Trirat Chankhlai — 2026-04-24

This study aims to analyze the physical characteristics, historical value, and significance of buildings
in the Talat Lang community, Lopburi Province, in order to formulate appropriate conservation and rehabilitation guidelines for heritage buildings. A mixed-methods research approach was employed, including a review of relevant literature, field surveys, questionnaire surveys of 284 households, and interviews with relevant agencies.
The findings indicate that the Talat Lang community constitutes a historic urban area with continuous development since the Ayutthaya period and retains three principal building types: wooden row houses, local shophouses,
and early modern shophouses. Most residents perceive the community as having a high level of historical significance and associate its identity primarily with its historic architectural fabric.

The evaluation of building values based on the concepts of authenticity and integrity reveals that, although some buildings retain their original form and elements, repairs, extensions, and the impacts of past fire disasters have reduced the overall integrity of the area. The proposed conservation and rehabilitation guidelines emphasize the preservation of original architectural forms and materials, landscape and environmental management,
the promotion of appropriate building use, and community participation. These measures aim to ensure that
the management of the historic urban area can sustain its identity while accommodating development within a contemporary social context in a sustainable manner.

Physical Transformation of Informal Settlements Following Demolition along the Taling Chan Railway Road

Sakawrat Suwanprateep — 2026-04-24

Slum communities in Thailand emerged from the transition from an agricultural society to an industrialized one. People migrated to the capital to pursue employment, resulting in numerous slum communities nestling within the city. The rapid population growth and expansion of slum communities led to the demolition of these communities to create public utilities and improve the city's landscape, impacting residents there. Currently, the Bang Khun Non area is the site of several land development projects, including the Orange Line electric train project. The proposed route, along the Taling Chan railway line, is lined with slum communities. Therefore, the demolition of these slum communities is necessary in accordance with government policy.

This article focuses on studying the impacts of slum demolition along the Taling Chan railway line. This study examines document data, maps, and historical photographs, as well as fieldwork and photographic observations. The purpose of this study is to analyze settlement patterns and architectural features of the slum communities. The study reveals that the development of the Orange Line electric train project is a key factor leading to demolition, relocation, and the establishment of new settlements adjacent to the demolition site. It can therefore identify problems arising from slum demolition that affect neighboring areas, settlement patterns and the characteristics of houses in slum communities that have been re-established in neighboring areas, as a result of government policies.

The Use of Simulation-Based Instructional Models for Learning Earthquake-Resistant Building Design

Pantapat Boonma — 2026-04-24

Learning building design for earthquake resilience requires integrating mechanical understanding of seismic forces, structural behavior, and design decision-making. Although previous instructional approaches have supported students in understanding theoretical concepts, limitations remain in developing analytical thinking and applying knowledge to real-world design contexts. Accordingly, this study investigates the impact of simulation-based instructional media on seismic design learning and learners’ analytical understanding.

This research employed a quasi-experimental, one-group pretest–posttest design combined with survey methodology to evaluate earthquake simulation models in architectural education. The sample consisted of fifth-year architecture students. Research instruments included physical simulation models demonstrating seismic building behavior, pre- and post-tests measuring understanding, analysis, and application, and an opinion questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

The results showed that post-test scores were significantly higher than pre-test scores across all cognitive levels. Learning gains in seismic force understanding and design application were highly significant (p < .001), while improvements in building behavior analysis were also significant (p < .05). However, no significant difference was found in students’ ability to analyze vibration reduction placement. Questionnaire responses indicated high levels of satisfaction with the simulation models and increased awareness of the importance of seismic-resilient design.

In conclusion, physical simulation models effectively bridge theory and practice by enhancing understanding of seismic forces and supporting design decisions. Nevertheless, logical analysis of complex building behavior remains limited, suggesting the need to integrate simulation-based learning with structured activities and guided reasoning.