covered way is a real pleasure in life. They learned also that if they think is in danger of giving ground to the modern utilitarian type of architec- ture. What we are trying to do is to retain our national character rather than copy the past.
It is true that modern architecture is the perfect collaboration of tech- nicians and employs the latest tech- nological achievements. Modern ar- chitecture is undoubtedly the most functional architecture for present day living in complex and nerve wreck- ing city life.
But, has this architecture sacrificed human values? When we talk about function, we seem to over emphasize the physical needs as dictated by ma- chines or technology to the extent that we have ignored our soul. When function goes too far. architecture becomes just a large box with holes.
I have been deeply stirred amidst the great work of ancient Thai archi- tecture to see structures built with so few materials, so primitive in the structural system, and yet so superb in workmanship and aesthetic value that in the words of the ancient say- ing "heaven has been united with earth". The architect seems to have created the atmosphere of perfect har- mony, tranquility and peace.
I do not propose that we copy their works, but rather capture the essen- tial aesthetic values deeply inherent in all of us.
Part of the annual exhibition of students' work from the School of Thai Architecture
Student's thesis (Bachelor degree). An art gallery
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