PARTICIPATORY CONSERVATION OF PUBLIC SPACES: A CASE STUDY OF WAT SAKAE, PHRA NAKHON SI AYUTTHAYA PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article aims to: 1. examine the history and conservation model of Wat Sakae’s community public space; 2. develop guidelines for conserving the public space of Wat Sakae; and 3. analyze community participation in the conservation of Wat Sakae’s public space in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. This study employed a qualitative research approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 25 key informants.

Findings were as follows: 1. the conservation model of Wat Sakae was rooted in the concept of ācariyapūjā (veneration of teachers), emphasizing preventive conservation combined with development, maintaining the authenticity of the original wooden structures while integrating appropriate modern technology; 2. the development approach focused on adaptive reuse, transforming former monks’ residences into public meditation spaces, alongside the establishment of a spiritual mentorship system to transmit local religious wisdom; and 3. community participation followed a mutually supportive tripartite model based on the “Bowon” principle (Home–Temple–State), in which the temple served as the central decision-making authority, disciples acted as patrons, and community leaders functioned as coordinators. The project’s success was attributed to strong social capital and a transparent, non-solicitation-based fundraising approach that fostered sustained faith and trust.