Matt Owens Rees

Thai houses typically feature steep, sloping roofs with large, protective overhangs and lofty ceilings.

These generous overhangs give great shade from the glaring sun and help keep indoor temperatures pleasantly low.

The sharply sloping roofs swiftly shed rainwater, often channeling it into water storage tanks.

All houses include fans and mosquito nets; upper-class residences have air conditioners.

Even in expensive moobaans (estates, projects), buildings cluster closely to create cooling shade. Thais don’t mind their homes huddling near one another, sometimes nearly touching.

House design in Thailand is changing

Benjawan’s new house embraces a modern design with a single sloping roof. It carries the customary steep gradient to whisk away rainwater but remains attractively simple.

Her Thai neighbours prefer the more traditional style. Although every bedroom has balconies, Thais seldom sit or relax there — a subtle scene you’ll notice while driving about.

During daylight hours, most Thais wear long trousers or dresses to shield skin from the sun. Sleeveless shirts and blouses are uncommon.

Come evening, they settle in the shade — either beneath trees in the garden or on patios with enough fans to fend off pesky mosquitoes.