Isan Adobe House : Model and Utilization

Abstract

Abstract

Originally, Isan people built homes using woods and related natural material. Later  natural building materials were decreased and scare. Clay was chosen as new building materials. Adobe houses were strong and long-lasting but not water-resistance. They are also suitable for Isan people’s way of life. This article aims to present the perspective of the development adobe house model based on Isan wisdom. The research objective was to develop model of Isan adobe house based on Isan wisdom. The research methodology was used in this study by collecting, analyzing, and synthesizing information from 9 men villagers and key informants in Kalasin, Chaiyaphum, and Yasothon provinces using indepth-interviews and knowledge management.  The study found that Isan adobe houses were applied from traditional Thai house, “Baan Song Thai”. Each house was built on unflooded land and had a concrete foundation so that moisture was kept away from the house. The house was spherical emphasizing living space and strength. The raw-earthen bricks used were placed horizontally making the walls very thick and insulated. The house consisted of a large bedroom, a ramp, a kitchen, a porch, and a high roof. The roof allowed ventilation. The cost was only the thousand. The house was sufficient, strong, sturdy, and easy to fix.