MABLE FURNITURE DESIGN WITH COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION PHRANKRATAI DISTRICT KAMPHAENG PHET PROVINCE

Abstract

This community-based participatory action research explored marble furniture design and production in Kamphaeng Phet Province, which is rich in marble resources, especially pink marble, which serve as a distinctive regional resource. This abundance has led to widespread marble processing in Phran Kratai District. The study had three main objectives: examining local marble furniture design preferences and needs, collaboratively developing marble furniture prototypes with community members, and evaluating the quality and user satisfaction of the marble final products. Pink marble, an abundant natural resource in Kamphaeng Phet Province, serves as a distinctive marker of local identity. This resource has supported extensive marble processing activities, particularly in Phran Kratai District. In response, a comprehensive needs assessment was conducted with key community stakeholders’ local entrepreneurs, customers, artisans, and designers using purposive sampling to select prominent enterprises for in-depth interviews. The insights gained revealed stakeholder-specific needs and challenges. These findings guided the development of prototype marble furniture that integrated value-added elements through traditional carving and functional design aligned with user preferences. Product quality was assessed by expert panels, while user satisfaction was evaluated by target customer groups. Results showed that the collaboratively developed furniture was positively received in terms of social value, cultural relevance, local identity, aesthetic appeal, structural durability, functionality, and transport suitability. The study demonstrates that the integration of artistic and practical design can enhance both the value and economic feasibility of marble furniture. The research was grounded in community-based participatory methods and fundamental furniture design principles. Nonetheless, the inherent size and weight of marble remain critical challenges. Future research should incorporate transportation and logistics science to support a more sustainable and efficient design and production process.