Shophouses in Nakhon Ratchasima Old Town Commercial Area with conservation guidelines to promote tourism in historical areas.

Abstract

This article aims to study the architectural characteristics of shophouses in Nakhon  Ratchasima old town commercial area, assess their value, and propose conservation  approaches. The study methodology involved collecting data about various aspects  of the district, surveying shophouses to select case study buildings through purposive  sampling, and interviewing building owners. Subsequently, architectural drawings were  produced, analyzing the layout, spatial organization, components, materials, structure,  and classifying styles according to historical periods. The study also evaluated the  buildings' significance and proposed conservation strategies to promote tourism in the  historical district. The findings reveal that the shophouses within the district represent  valuable architectural heritage, possessing significance in terms of architecture,  landscape, education, history, and cultural arts. These buildings demonstrate sufficient  potential to enhance heritage tourism due to their distinctive architectural features  that reflect the styles of different eras. This presents a crucial asset for showcasing  narratives about the buildings and traditional lifestyles within the once-thriving old  commercial district as a unique selling point. Furthermore, each building is situated  along routes connecting to religious buildings and historically significant sites, enabling  the development of walking tour routes for urban sightseeing. The study proposes five  approaches for conserving the district's shophouses:1) Raising awareness of their value  and promoting conservation efforts. 2) Educating building owners about conservation  practices to control the environment, prevent deterioration, and enhance structural  stability. 3) Creating conservation alternatives through appropriate renovations.  4) Establishing conservation policies by government agencies to ensure aesthetic  orderliness and reinforce the identity of the old commercial district. 5) Promoting the  integration of old buildings within the district as part of tourism activities so that the  building can be preserved economically.