The Influences of Beliefs and Gender on the Spatial Organization of the Tai-Puan Ethnic Vernacular House in Xiangkhouang Province, Lao People's Democratic Republic

Abstract

Among various Tai ethnic groups, Tai-Puan people have developed an interesting spatial organization style which revolves around their traditional beliefs and values.  This paper examines how the Tai-Puan beliefs on social status, spirits and gender roles affect the way their residential spaces are organized.  That is to say, spaces in Tai-Puan vernacular house are arranged according to their gender hierarchy and the existence of each space always corresponds to their gender-specific functionality as well as signifies certain cultural implications. The perception toward the roles of men heavily shapes the design of the front section of the house. On the other hand, the prominent roles of women as homemakers and caretakers of domestic chores govern the organization of inner spaces and majority of the back areas of the house. 

            In summary, this paper highlights the influence of gender beliefs on the spatial organization of the Thai-Puan vernacular architecture.  The influences of spiritual and gender beliefs on architectural functions have not yet been extensively studied but are critical to the understanding of the formation of the Tai ethnic vernacular architecture from the sociocultural aspects.  The concept that sociocultural factors define characteristics of spaces is the basis concept to the Tai ethnic vernacular architecture.  This research will, therefore, help add on to existing knowledge in this field and facilitate further researches about the long-existing, Tai ethnic vernacular architecture that can be commonly found throughout the Southeast Asia region.