Guidelines for Designing Buildings to Withstand Natural Disasters

Abstract

This study examines the impact of flood disasters in Thailand, with a focus on the 2011 major floods event, to propose building design strategies that can prevent and mitigate damage from natural hazards. This research is framed by the concept of resilience, which, in the context of urban development, refers to the capacity to adapt structurally, socially, economically, and environmentally to withstand pressures and sudden events in a sustainable manner. It also aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11), which emphasizes the development of inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities. The study applies spatial indicators such as reducing the proportion of slum populations, increasing accessible public spaces, improving early warning systems, and enhancing community participation in urban planning to formulate practical building design approaches. The findings indicate that buildings located on higher ground, distant from water sources, and constructed with moisture-resistant materials are less likely to sustain severe damage. Effective design should therefore integrate efficient drainage systems, appropriate building and landscaping planning to accommodate flooding, and real-time water-level monitoring technologies. Furthermore, building interiors should employ
water-resistant materials and provide flexible spaces that can be easily adapted or relocated during emergencies. These policy and design recommendations contribute to strengthening the resilience of communities and cities, enabling them to better withstand and recover from disasters in a sustainable manner.