The Impacts of Tourism on Settlement and Vernacular Architecture of Lahu (Lahu Shehleh) in Ban Jabo, Mae Hong Son Province, Thailand

Abstract

This research aims to examine settlement patterns and vernacular house forms that reflect the way of life and cultural practices of the Black Lahu (Lahu Shehleh) community in Ban Jabo, Mae Hong Son Province, Thailand, as well as the impacts of tourism on these patterns and house forms. A qualitative research approach was employed, including documentary research, field surveys, contextual participant observation, and semi-structured interviews. Data were collected through architectural sketching, measured drawings, and architectural documentation. The study focused on three types of dwellings as case studies: traditional houses, developed vernacular houses, and homestay houses. The analysis emphasized spatial usage and structural characteristics. The findings reveal that settlement patterns and vernacular house forms reflect the way of life and cultural values of the Black Lahu, including traditional beliefs, kinship relationships, and architectural simplicity. (1) Key cultural components of the village include the Ja Khu ceremonial area, the Gaemu (village elder’s house), head and tail village gates, the village shrine, and ritual spaces. (2) Significant spaces within Black Lahu houses consist of the veranda, kitchen, sleeping area, and the Bu Ba ancestral altar, which serves as the spiritual core of the house. However, tourism has generated impacts at the village layout level, increasing building density and affecting building forms and functions to accommodate tourism. At the house level, family space has decreased while guest areas have expanded, with some traditional living spaces disappearing. Additionally, tourism has affected local craftsmanship and indigenous wisdom in the use of natural materials for house construction, leading to greater reliance on industrial materials.