Cultural intercourse of the Lao Vieng ethnic groups that reflects on the architectural style and the use of space in the Korat house

Abstract

Lao Vieng ethnic groups were taken as prisoners of war to Nakhon Ratchasima in 1778, resulting in a continuous cultural intercourse with the Thai Korat people, especially in the construction of Korat house styles. Recent research has investigated residential housing and the use of space by the two groups of Lao ViengdLaos Vieng Taku and Laos Vieng Japohdwho settled either close to or away from the center of administration. This article focuses on the comparison of the cultural intercourse of these two groups against the main cultural group which is reflected in the development of housing and the use of interior space. A study of architectural history is applied along with anthropology and sociology. The methodology includes housing surveys, case studies, and interviews with residents. Comparative analysis between the two groups aimed at studying the phenomena of cultural intercourse, including its contributing factors. The study findings show that in a historical context, both groups have maintained to some extent, aspects according to traditional Lao culture. However, the housing patterns of the Lao Vieng Japoh reflect more the adoption of the Korat house than the other, as the location of their community is closer to the administrative center and trade routes, and is surrounded by different cultural groups, especially the Thai Korat group, resulting in social interactions, cultural intercourse, and blending in with the mainstream culture at a greater level.