VERNADOC and Vernacular Architecture Documentation of Thais

Abstract

VERNADOC DOCUMENTATION is a surveying method originated from Finland, later become known in Thailand through the Survey of Architecture Heritage Project under the name of VERNADOC camp. This study aims to understand basic concepts, principles, roles, as well as the status of VERNADOC in the context of documenting Thai vernacular architecture. The study found that essential principles of VERNADOC lay in on-site measurement and making exquisite drawings. Characteristics of VERNADOC DOCUMENTATION are that, first of all, instead of text and specifications, texture and shadow are fundamental features employed to give life to the drawings, making them appealing to the onlookers. Secondly, VERNADOC premises voluntary participation in setting up documentation camp, which once done, a collection of drawings is exhibited at that community immediately afterwards, thus allowing the locals to appreciate their community from a different perspective.

         Such efficiency and benefits have inspired the Finnish architect Markku Mattila to adopt the method, which belongs to more than 100 years old tradition of Finish architects, to organise the first international vernacular architecture documentation camp in 2005. It is expected that measured drawings and other procedures such as interviewing and participatory observation would give a strong impetus to buildings' owners and local peoples to appreciate the value of their heritage, willing to preserving them as a result.

         In Thailand, the first VERNADOC camp held in 2007 by ICOMOS Thailand. Since then, further camps have been supported by the Association of Siamese Architects under Royal Patronage and various architectural institutions to train volunteers both Thai and foreigners about VERNADOC.  Documenting heritage buildings and exhibiting the result to the public have made VERNADOC known. Nowadays, a total of 73 camps have been organised in different regions of Thailand.  Many of the former participants in VERNADOC Thailand & network have developed themselves to become trainers and have led 13 campsites abroad from a total of 120 camps organised in 22 countries around the world. Of all the camps organised by VERNADOC Thailand & network, more than 80 percent carried out a record of little-known vernacular architecture which have never been documented. Thus, apart from offering benefits to participants, documentations through VERNADIC help building up a database for vernacular architecture in Thailand as well as network countries into the same system. These accurate and reliable will further benefit future study and conservation as well as giving inspiration to future generations.