A Thai style house is a beautiful way to bring Asian architecture into the home. Based on traditional building methods and design aesthetic from Thailand, a Thai style house is often a soothing and beautiful blend of natural materials and extensive decoration. There are several features that help identify a dwelling as a Thai style house, from building materials to the roof line.
Most traditional Thai houses are elevated off the ground on stilts to lower the risk of flooding from the frequent monsoons. During the rest of the year, this space may be used for storage or even sleeping quarters during especially hot months. Constructed almost entirely from wood, the focus of Thai style design is airflow and simplicity throughout. Many Thai houses incorporate open breezeways or rooms with removable walls or windows, in order to maximize the effect of rare breezes on persistent humidity.
In a Thai style house, several separate structures or sections may be connected by ramps and breezeways. Staircases are on the outside of the structure, rather than the internal versions seen in most Western design. The division of rooms helps keep a house organized and simple, in keeping with aesthetic ideals. Some houses may be quite large and perfect for multi-family dwellings, thanks to multiple living spaces and separated structures.
Construction of a Thai house uses mostly wood, traditionally focusing on teak or other readily available tropical woods. Roofs are steep, to facilitate airflow, and are decorated with curving edges and high, pointed peaks. Highly detailed wood carving is frequent throughout many Thai houses; doors, windows, shutters, and even wall panels may be heavily carved into scenes and motifs.
The interior design of a Thai style house usually features Asian inspired furnishings and ornamentation. Carved wooden furniture is accented by bright, beautiful cushions in jewel tones. Though walls are usually plain dark wood, the incorporation of large windows and open air spaces keeps rooms bright and full of light. A natural environment is accented by the use of stone and greenery; tropical indoor plants are very common and bring even more nature indoors.
Artwork and statuary may be an important part of the interior design of a Thai style house. With several major religions practiced in Thailand, many statues and works of art depict religious figures or scenes from famous myths and stories. Carved wood panels, wooden accented lamps, and even rattan furniture can be used to accent and highlight Thai design.
