The symbolism of the Thai house

[Kaczaza]

I'm new here, so firstly I would like to say hello to everyone!

I'm writing from Poland and I have question about symbolism of thai house. I'm interested in such things as symbolism of threshold, window or overally space. The region that is the most important for me is northern Thailand (Khon Kaen for example).

Is threshold, for example, used in thai culture as a symbol of rite of passage or can be used as a metaphor of border beetwen normal place and sacred place? Or window can be the symbol of free spirit? Or the sunlight that come to home through the window can be the symbol of sacrum presence? All information will be very useful!

Moreover, I will be very thankful if someone can recommend me some books or articles about that topic, any thai myths that include that topic will be great too!

Greetings, Filip!

[Mahindrasarath]

You can find a Siam mythology book, i found it 11 yrs ago in a library written in English but I was not interesting. Anyway i knew someone graduated fine arts from Poland, too. If you just want a simple house are usually built with roof form like Pyramid.

[khonrai]

Hi

sometimes a house is just a house.

this might be a valid discussion of middle age pagan housholds but in modern soceity I think it is mute

A house usually reflects more on what are the common and available building materials and aesthetic cultureal norm.
than myths or superstitions other than decorations on certain holidays

many of the rural house's don't even have a threshold most are utilitarian in design

on the more affluent house holds in rural area's more detail and attention is given to the exterior appearance. in the form of ginger bread or scroll work and elongated or curved roof lines. with siding of wood.

[Susana]

I believe there is some symbolism to certain architectural features, such as the curved roof tips. I remember reading an article many years ago which explained the origin of some features. I have been unable to find any similar article, however.

Like Khonrai suggested, most houses are built with utility in mind, as well as current style.

I remember many years ago when I first went to Thailand I greatly admired the older homes, especially one belonging to Mr. X's cousin. It was two story with high ceilings and the old style window shutters. Inside it was relatively cool and comfortable. I was shocked when they announced they were going to tear it down and build a more modern home, which they are still living in today.

Even though I like the older style, I can see that in a modern Bangkok they would not be secure enough for this age, unless built in the old style with modern convenience and security in mind.

I am unable to answer the question, but some googling, if possible to do so, will at least lead the OP to some interesting reading.

[Khun Don]

Susana-your mention of curved roof tips reminded me of some articles I read-managed to find them

http://www.chiangmai-chiangrai.com/n...nna_house.html

I also remember that the raised step to be found at the entrance door in some traditional houses should be stepped over and never on as it is the residence of certain house spirits which are distinct from the spirits of the land for whom the spirit house is erected

http://www.chiangmai-chiangrai.com/spirit_house.html

I hope this helps you kaczaza

[Kaczaza]

Thanks for all answers! I highly appreciate it!

I'm writing about Apichatpong Weerasethakul's movies in my university thesis and space of house is important for his works. The Thai Spirit House conceptions will be very helpful!

Big, big thanks!

[Susana]

If possible, try to find some online papers from Silpakorn University students for inspiration. I believe Chulalongkorn University also has a Department of Architecture. Some students like to post their thesis online in English.

[Khun Don]

Possibly local social/cultural anthropology papers on magic religion and ritual would be useful too, given Thai preoccupation with animism.