Built Environment Inquiry

A Comparative Study of Architectural Typology Concepts: Case Studies of Antoine-Chrysostome Quatremère de Quincy, Jacques Nicolas Louis Durand, and Gottfried Semper During the Age of Enlightenment

2025-03-25T11:17:01+07:00

In the study of Western architecture, typological classification in architecture serves as an essential technical framework for understanding the categorization of architectural forms. It establishes a general conceptual structure that contributes to the explanation and critique of architecture while enhancing the architectural design process to effectively respond to contextual transformations. The concept of typology has undergone changes and evolution over time, with continuous refinements in principles and classification criteria to keep pace with shifts in architectural design processes at different periods. These developments reflect transformations in design philosophy aimed at addressing the changing demands of social contexts.

This article aims to explore the components underlying the emergence of typological classification in architecture by examining its development, which originated from other disciplines and was later integrated into architectural studies during the Age of Enlightenment. The study focuses on the theoretical contributions of three key thinkers and architects: Antoine-Chrysostome Quatremère de Quincy, Jacques Nicolas Louis Durand, and Gottfried Semper. The findings indicate that typological classification consists of two fundamental components: the abstract and the physical. These elements provide an academic basis for studying architecture within complex contextual conditions, such as postmodern and contemporary architecture, and serve as a foundation for value-based analysis in architectural conservation.

Guidelines for creating a landmark to promote the image of the community in Don Kaew Subdistrict, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province.

2025-03-24T14:30:00+07:00

The guidelines for creating a landmark to promote the image of the community in Don Kaew Subdistrict, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province have the following objectives: (1) to study the identity that promotes the image in managing the community's cultural economy sustainably; (2) to find ways to create a landmark to enhance the image in managing the community's cultural economy sustainably; and (3) to create a prototype landmark based on the creative guidelines to promote the image in managing the community's cultural economy sustainably in Don Kaew Subdistrict, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province. The analysis results from in-depth interviews, observational recordings in the field, and literature reviews of related research can extract local data regarding (1) the environment, which includes geography such as the lowland river area, vegetable farming, and fertility, as well as history, which includes the stories behind the name of the community "Don Kaeo" and Wat Phra Non Khon Muang; and (2) society, which includes lifestyle (living conditions) characterized by friendliness, a cheerful demeanor, self-sufficient livelihoods, sufficiency in food and living, and fishing along the Ping River. The summary of the concept to create a prototype of a symbolic landscape based on the draft evaluation found that the highest scoring draft was Concept 3 "DONKAEW," which had an overall average rating of very good ( = 4.63, SD = 0.46). Additionally, Concept 1 "Living Well, Eating Well, Being Happy" in Draft 3 also had a very good overall average-rating ( = 4.53, SD = 0.50) and was used as a secondary reference. Subsequently, three drafts were developed and evaluated (developed) based on feedback from a group of experts and stakeholders, and It was found that Draft (Development) 2 has an average satisfaction level of very good ( = 4.60, SD = 0.46), with the highest satisfaction score. From the creation of the landmark and the collection of satisfaction surveys from two sample groups, namely, a group of 8 participants from the summary meeting and a group of 75 consumers, including the general public and Thai tourists in the area where the landmark is installed (Smart Farming area at the Happy Agriculture Garden, Don Kaew Sub-district, Moo 7, Ban San Mueang), the total number of respondents is 83. It was found that the overall average satisfaction level was very good ( = 4.63, SD = 0.51).

Design Ceramic Scent Diffusers Based on Himmapan Mythological Animals

2025-04-01T15:10:42+07:00

This research aims to investigate the properties of porous ceramics and their application in designing products capable of absorbing water and diffusing fragrance, inspired by Himmapan mythical creatures that are deeply connected to Thai culture and auspicious beliefs. The study employs qualitative research and experimental methods, beginning with data collection and analysis of fragrance diffuser products in the market, followed by an examination of seven Himmapan creatures: Thai Kirin, Rajasri Lion, Gajasri, Garuda, Naga, Waree Kunchon, and Hong Swan, focusing on their meanings and associated beliefs. The experimental phase involved testing ceramic bodies using stoneware clay mixed with two types of porosity-enhancing materials—calcium carbonate and dolomite—in various ratios (90:10, 80:20, 70:30). The samples were fired at 1,200°C and subsequently tested for water absorption and fragrance diffusion capabilities over a four-week period. Product prototypes were developed using cultural design concepts and character design principles.

Research findings indicate that current market fragrance diffusers come in various forms, with ceramic diffusers having advantages in design versatility and permeability. Among the tested clay formulations, the mixture of 70% stoneware and 30% dolomite demonstrated optimal properties for fragrance diffusion, with a water absorption rate of 7.6% and the ability to maintain moisture and diffuse fragrance for up to four weeks. This formulation outperformed calcium carbonate mixtures, which exhibited high absorption but too rapid evaporation. The product designs feature cartoon-style Himmapan creatures with disproportionate but recognizable characteristics of each animal. The bases are designed to hold fragrance oils and interconnect, reflecting the habitats of each creature (land, water, air) while considering aesthetic appeal, auspicious symbolism, and practical home decoration applications. The resulting products establish meaningful connections with Thai cultural heritage, create added value through artistic and cultural elements, and fulfill their intended functional purpose. They show significant potential for commercial development in the product category that effectively utilizes the absorption and fragrance diffusion properties of porous ceramics.

Guidelines for Site Selection and Design of Museum-Based Learning Spaces: A Case Study of the Agricultural Innovation Museum District, Maejo University

2025-04-09T15:10:29+07:00

Maejo University is considered a lifelong learning institution focused on elevating the quality of life in society and the nation through learning. It has collaborated with the Agricultural State University (ASU) to serve as a center for agricultural knowledge dissemination within Maejo University's community. This collaboration involves the presentation of the "Learning Base at the Agricultural Innovation Museum of Maejo University," which utilizes museum-based learning space design principles. The research conducted for this project employed a design-based research methodology, which involved surveying the physical spaces within the university and synthesizing data to establish criteria for selecting suitable areas based on museum-centered learning preferences, user needs, and activity formats within the space.

The research findings concluded that the preliminary project site selection involves the identification of knowledge excellence aligned with the university's strategic objectives in five areas, linked to the university's knowledge domains at the faculty level. Moreover, the physical geography relationship assessment and the appropriateness of location placement considering the distribution nature of museum zones were crucial. The university designated the following learning base areas: 1) Wisdom Pavilion, 2) Bonsai Garden, 3) Plant Spread Building, 4) Left-wing Field. Additionally, researchers analyzed and selected additional potential areas, including 5) the vacant space in front of the Fisheries Technology Faculty building, 6) the new agricultural theory plot, and 7) the old building as a base for learning organic agriculture. These efforts aim to establish a network for distributing space and disseminating knowledge excellence based on the university's strategic objectives in five areas, encompassing the entire Maejo University. The site scope and appropriate activities of the learning base were considered in the geographical context to formulate recommendations for designing museum-based learning spaces. The case study exemplifies the future direction for the Agricultural Innovation Museum zone of Maejo University.

The Influence of Urban Morphology on PM2.5 Accumulation at the Pedestrian Level: A Case Study of Siam Square, Bangkok

2025-03-11T13:53:38+07:00

This study examines the impact of urban morphological factors on outdoor wind speed and the accumulation of air pollution at pedestrian level in high-density urban areas. The aim is to identify strategies for building design and urban planning that enhance ventilation and reduce the accumulation of pollutants. An experimental framework was employed to investigate the effects of various building layout configurations within the case study area, covering the Rama 1 Road Valley and Siam Square in the Pathum Wan District of Bangkok. The study is situated within the context of maximum urban growth. Outdoor wind velocity was simulated using the External CFD function of DesignBuilder version 6.1.0.6 and compared against a target wind speed required to mitigate the accumulation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), defined as at least 2 m/s. Input data were based on ten-year average hourly wind speed records (2010–2019) and prevailing wind directions obtained from the Bangkok meteorological monitoring station. The reference wind speed was set at 1 m/s at a height of 10 meters above ground level (U_ref), with two primary wind directions—south and west—applied in the analysis. The study focused on three main variables: 1) the influence of Building shape, using three layouts—rectangular, oval, and triangular—at a BCR of 35-36%; 2) the influence of three BCR levels (35-36%, 50%, and 70%) with a rectangular building layout; and 3) the influence of Open space positioning, with five configurations using a rectangular layout and a BCR of 50%.

The findings reveal that 1) Building shape exerts a marginal influence on airflow in the Rama 1 Road Valley case study area. Among the tested configurations, the rectangular layout produced the highest proportion of areas achieving the target wind speed, followed by the oval and triangular layouts, respectively. 2) Building Coverage Ratio (BCR) exerts a clear influence, with the lowest BCR level (35–36%) resulting in the greatest proportion of target wind speed areas, whereas higher BCR levels (50–70%) were ineffective in reducing PM2.5 accumulation under the study’s initial wind conditions. 3) Open space positioning also exerts a marginal influence. Configurations in which open space was placed on one side of the building block facilitated better airflow than those with peripheral open space. However, alternating the location of open spaces did not contribute to reduced particulate accumulation. In addition, The average aspect ratio of the street canyon (H/W), defined as the ratio of building height to street width in the Siam Square case study area, demonstrates a positive relationship with outdoor wind speed. When buildings are significantly taller than the adjacent street width, resulting in a higher H/W ratio, airflow within the street canyon is enhanced, thereby effectively reducing the accumulation of PM2.5. In contrast, the average building length-to-width ratio (L/W) exhibits a negative relationship with airflow. As building length increases relative to width, leading to a higher L/W ratio, airflow tends to diminish, which may contribute to increased PM2.5 accumulation. These results underscore the importance of urban morphology in influencing airflow and PM2.5 accumulation at pedestrian level, particularly in cities like Bangkok, where low baseline wind speeds prevail year-round. Effective building design and urban space planning are crucial for improving urban environmental conditions.

Conflict Issues over the Land Use among the Sea Nomads Ethnic Groups in Thailand: The Root of the Battle in maintaining Customary Land Tenure

2025-03-05T14:34:14+07:00

Land use conflict represents one of the critical problems among Sea Nomads Ethnic Groups in Thailand. This article aims to explain and compare events as well as recommend guidelines to resolve land use conflict among 46 communities of Sea Nomads Ethnic Groups in Thailand. The method used in this research is qualitative research, which includes both primary data and secondary data. Two of the techniques used were interview and documentary research. Data collected were analysed through two methods: content analysis and comparative research. Findings revealed that the root cause of land use conflicts among Sea Nomads Ethnic Groups in Thailand are categorised into four issues 1) issuance of land ownership document, 2) declaration of a national park and protected areas, 3) tourism promotion policy, and 4) the 2004 Tsunami. When reviewing the land use according to the Comprehensive Plan, a majority of land use conflicts were found in forest conservation areas, accounting for 62.50 percent, followed by natural and environmental conservation for tourism areas at 56.79 percent, and low-density residential areas at 8.93 percent. The conflict parties involving Sea Nomads Ethnic Groups include government authorities, accounting for 56.79 percent, followed by private developers at 41.98 percent, and the temple at 1.23 percent respectively. Problems and conflict expressions over land use were classified into three areas which are agricultural land, residential and ancestral graves area, and spiritual sites. By assessing a level of community engagement, evidence showed that the level of engagement in thirty-two Sea Nomads communities was limited to placation, while only fourteen communities were partnership. Furthermore, the researcher proposed guidelines for gaining customary land tenure based on lessons learned from the experiences of Sea Nomads Ethnic Groups in Thailand. This approach can be summarised into three tools: 1) social capital,
2) political capital, and 3) recognition of roles and identities. By establishing roles and identities within Sea Nomads Ethnic Groups, communities can build networks, legitimacy, and increase negotiating power when demanding customary land tenure.

Analyzing the Urban Morphology Network to Foster the Spatial Interactions of Wiang Chet Lin Learning Space

2025-03-13T10:33:21+07:00

Wiang Chet Lin, one of Chiang Mai's six historic settlements, retains its circular urban morphology and serves as an ecological learning space at the foothills of Doi Suthep. Despite its historical significance, it is underutilized, with some areas abandoned and unsafe at night. This study explores the development of routes and learning spaces in Wiang Chet Lin by analyzing spatial characteristics using relevant data, field surveys, direct observation, and Space Syntax tools. This study explores the development of routes and learning spaces in Wiang Chet Lin by analyzing spatial characteristics using relevant data, field surveys, direct observation, and Space Syntax tools. The results identify eight cultural heritage points within Wiang Chet Lin and highlight strong correlations between accessibility to city, local, and community hubs. The average city-level and local-level accessibility values are 0.516202 and 1.37812, respectively, indicating that highly accessible areas align with community activity zones. These findings underscore the importance of enhancing physical environments to foster connectivity and promote interactions under the learning city framework. However, secondary connectivity areas were identified, showing potential for future development. These areas, characterized by high accessibility and connectivity, could be transformed into effective learning or recreational spaces, benefiting youth, residents, and tourists. Such development aligns with the concept of lifelong learning cities, emphasizing safety and inclusivity. The integration of Space Syntax tools proves valuable for evaluating physical networks and guiding the design of routes, accessibility, and learning spaces. However, strategic planning and collaboration across sectors are essential to ensure that learning spaces address future needs while balancing historic preservation with modern urban development.