A study of the adaptation of stall shops for walking street activities: Case Study of Khao San Road

Abstract

        The objective of this research is to find the model and methodology of area arranging in Khaosan road walking market. In addition, the research studies the adjustment of commercial stalls that affects the walking street activities around the area of Khaosan Road and Bang Lamphu district in order to find a suitable model and possibility that responds to activities that occur from the use of Khao San Road in day-time and a pedestrian street during the night. This study focuses on data collection, visual surveys and interviews with vendors and people who are involved in area management to establish the format and model that are appropriate and organized. The study found adjustment of how commercial areas are set according to the usage behavior of the night walking street area of Khao San road. It can be categorized into 10 types of commercial area: from free walking sales to food trucks. Each type is different and unique but having common characteristics of flexibility and mobility. This common behavior is shared and developed inside the merchant community which is a Thai way to adapt their activity due to the situation and existing. The results of this research create academic benefit and practical benefit to develop the model and methodology of area arranging in Khaosan road commercial space management and also maintain a charming characteristic of Khaosan road.