reclaimed timber and stone craft housescape design lab's gabled residences in thailand

Baan Sao Yong Hin follows regional vernacular architecture

Baan Sao Yong Hin residential project by Housescape Design Lab is located in Lom Sak District, Phetchabun Province, Thailand. Situated within the Phetchabun Basin, the site’s defining geographical feature is Khao Nam Ko Yai, a prominent mountain that influences local wind patterns. The recurring downslope wind passing through the house and the presence of large subsurface gravel deposits informed key design decisions. The use of stone as a foundation, a technique rooted in regional vernacular architecture, was integrated into the structural system.

The design process was guided by extensive research on vernacular construction methods, particularly referencing the study ‘Hean Sao Yong Hin’ by Kanittha Pansri and Professor Dr. Veera Inpantang. However, sourcing reclaimed timber from the region posed challenges, leading to an alternative approach of acquiring wood from dismantled houses in Chiang Mai. The materials were documented, analyzed, and reconfigured to introduce new spatial relationships while preserving their original textures and marks of use.

all images by Rungkit Charoenwat

Housescape Design Lab balances traditional and modern design

The structural system balances traditional techniques with contemporary reinforcements. Excavated stones, naturally embedded beneath the site, were used as the wooden column bases, aligning with local building traditions. To enhance stability, steel L-bolts were anchored into reinforced concrete foundations before being embedded into the stone bases. This integration preserves the historical construction approach while improving structural resilience.

In response to Thailand’s tropical climate, the design prioritizes passive cooling strategies. The design team selectively applies thermal insulation solutions beneath the roof, extending the eaves and creating site-specific airflow patterns to optimize natural ventilation. These elements reduce heat accumulation and enhance indoor thermal comfort without relying on mechanical systems.

Baan Sao Yong Hin, designed by Housescape Design Lab, is set within Thailand’s Phetchabun Basin

Housescape Design Lab ensures spatial and material coherence

Materiality and craftsmanship play a central role in the project. The walls retain the inherent imperfections of their materials, the reclaimed wood preserves marks from its previous use, and the stone foundations introduce organic variations in form. The furniture and lighting fixtures were designed and fabricated within the studio, ensuring continuity in material language and spatial coherence.

The external landscape emphasizes ecological diversity. A serpentine water channel, or ‘Sai Kai,’ was introduced to facilitate water flow and support natural bioremediation. Instead of a manicured lawn, the planting strategy incorporates a mix of species that contribute to biodiversity and ecological balance. This approach fosters an evolving natural environment, reinforcing the relationship between the residence and its surroundings.

reclaimed timber from dismantled houses in Chiang Mai was repurposed in the structure

the project explores vernacular construction techniques through extensive research

wood materials were carefully documented and reconfigured for new spatial relationships

extended eaves and airflow patterns optimize natural ventilation for passive cooling

marks of previous use are preserved in the reclaimed wood, showcasing material history

the project balances traditional techniques with contemporary reinforcements for longevity

the residence fosters an evolving natural environment through a responsive planting strategy

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project info:

name: Baan Sao Yong Hin

architects: Housescape Design Lab | @house.scape.design.lab

location: Lom Sak District, Phetchabun Province, Thailand

lead architect: Peerapong Promchart

design team: Panuwat Donthong, Pimprutti Pruttichote, Puttipong Penthong, Jil Gielen, Thiprada Jindatum

Housescape research team: Timpika Wetpanya, Nattikarn Krooba

clients: Khun Muenprae, Khun Tritep

structural engineer: Rachaen Jannakham

landscape design: Housescape Design Lab

contractor: Mongkol Boonrueng

wood provider: Bua Baan Mai Kao

photographer: Rungkit Charoenwat

special thanks to: Kanitta Pansri; Prof. Dr.Vira Inpuntung

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom