Sustainability assessment of vernacular architectural heritage: the case of Shino-European shophouse in Tha Wang historical neighbourhood, Thailand

The group of Shino-European shophouses in the Tha Wang neighbourhood, Thailand, is considered a cultural heritage in architecture aspect and significant historical evidence showing its prosperity as a trade centre in the region. The formation of the shophouses reflected the concept of sustainable architecture by adapting to the commercial-based neighbourhood’s environment. However, some are not in use and are in deteriorated condition. This study aims to assess the sustainability of Shino-European shophouses in the Tha Wang neighbourhood and to propose guidelines for improving according to the concept of sustainable vernacular architectural heritage in the historical area of Tha Wang. The study method is to determine sustainability assessment criteria for vernacular architecture under the concept of sustainability consisting of 3 factors: environmental, social, and economic factors by field surveying and evaluating a group of 23 Shino-European shophouses in the Tha Wang neighbourhood. It was found that there are 15 highly, 3 moderately, and 5 less sustainable shophouses. The use of shophouses is the main factor that creates a lack of social and economic factors that lead to unsustainability. The guidelines for improving the Shino-European shophouse group should focus on the participation of stakeholders through policies.