The architecture of Thailand is a major part of the country's cultural legacy and reflects both the challenges of living in Thailand's sometimes extreme climate as well as, historically, the importance of architecture to the Thai people's sense of community and religious beliefs. Influenced by the architectural traditions of many of Thailand's neighbors, it has also developed significant regional variation within its vernacular and religious buildings. Although Siam urged to identify themselves as a modernized state, Western culture and influence was undesirable and inevitable. In an attempt to become distinguished, Thailand's ruling elite gravitated toward selective Modernization to avoid the undesired Western influence.
Murals in Wat Phra Kaew depicting a palace complex built in Thai architecture
Phum Khao Bin Chedi of Wat Mahathat, Sukhothai Historical Park
Wat Phutthaisawan, Ayutthaya
The traditional Thai house is a loose collection of vernacular architectural styles employed throughout the different regions of Thailand. Thai houses usually feature a bamboo or wooden structure, raised on stilts and topped with a steep gabled roof. The houses from each of Thailand's regions have distinctive styles, which reflect the people's living style, including social and cultural beliefs or religious customs and occupations.
The traditional Thai house at King Rama II Memorial Park
Thap Khwan Residence and garden, one of the residence in Sanam Chan Palace, Nakhon Pathom.
Jim Thompson house, Pathumwan.