Identity and architectural changes of the Korat house: the case study of Ban Khok Krachai, Khon Buri District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province

Abstract

This article aims to identify the Korat house identity of Ban Khok Krachai, explain knowledge of Korat houses construction and analyze architectural changes. This study started from surveying 6 case studies houses and interviews with residents, builders and local philosophers. Then analyze the data with the principle of morphological analysis. The study found that the Korat house of the Khok Krachai people is unique and different from other areas, which has a house style that is related to the structural elements, such as the 2-gabled house and 3-gabled house. The roof structure show the perfect combination of old and new construction techniques and have different installation techniques from other places. In addition, there is also a unique feature of the wall that shows the development of the style and installation system. This particular feature is caused by the builders constructing the residence according to the Korat house norm and they modified with the wisdom of local craftsmen, to be consistent with the local context and way of life. therefore, resulting in an architectural style that is a local identity. However, economic, social and cultural change combined with the emergence of modern materials and new construction technology, it directly affects the change of Korat houses style, structure and architectural elements.