Spatial Characteristics of Core Housing Units Brought by Residents′ Extension Activities at Tung Song Hong Settlements in Thailand

Abstract

This study clarifies the transformation of Core Housing units through residents′ extension at Tung Song Hong (TSH) Settlements. It was constructed by the National Housing Authority in late 1970s. The study focuses on three points such as transition of the settlements and residents, use of advantage of Core Housing and spatial characteristics of extended Core Housing. We found that settlements have been developed both physically and socially through residents continuous living. However there was lack of management system by the provider side to support residents′ self-build activities, residents did not understand the detail of devices of Core Housing nor follow the projected extension process. On the other hand, there are similarity among space composition through residents′ step by step extensions, even original core units were varied. We called it as multipurpose living room oriented plan. The multipurpose living room is frequently used for daily life but also very important at the ceremony and indicates residents′ recognition toward the houses in Thailand.