Cultural Area Management Paradigm Amid Urbanization: A Study of Pak Nam Prasae Community, Rayong and Chak-Ngaew Community, Chonburi

Abstract

This research article aims to analyze the paradigms of cultural space management amid urban expansion by comparing two communities: Paknam Prasae in Rayong Province and Chak Ngaew in Chonburi Province, both located within the context of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). Employing a qualitative research methodology, data was collected through document analysis, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions with stakeholders at the community, governmental, and academic levels. The study reveals that the two communities adopted significantly different paradigms in managing their cultural spaces. Paknam Prasae utilized a participatory survival paradigm, relying on internal cultural capital and community-based mechanisms to support local economic development through. In contrast, Chak Ngaew adopted a policy-based restoration paradigm, integrating governmental collaboration to design and manage cultural spaces such as the Thai–Chinese Cultural Street and Chinese Teochew heritage festivals. The comparison further highlights differences in participatory mechanisms, the role of networks, social capital, and the degree of engagement with formal state policy. Findings suggest that sustainable cultural space management requires a context-responsive paradigm that is flexible, community-driven, and capable of linking cultural identity with economic vitality in the long term.