reclaimed timber and stone craft housescape design lab’s gabled residences in thailand
housescape design lab's design balances traditional techniques with contemporary reinforcements for longevity.
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.
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.
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.
1/44
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.
shop
your own online design shop — no sales commission collected
