Wat Phra Tat: Space and Environment Management of Buddhist Temples and Relics in the Esan Region

This qualitative investigation assesses the problems and conditions of space and environment management in nineteen temples of North-eastern Thailand. The results found that the current problems with management in the area are the ineffective division of space within the temple complex, the lack of systems to accommodate large influxes of people and the harm that overcrowding causes the temple environment. The research team outlined a method to combat these problems that consisted of temple space restructuring to make the grounds more suitable for large numbers of visitors, thus reducing strain on the environment. This was achieved by redistributing the land allocation and making the Phra Tat the most important feature of the temple, from which all other areas may be accessed. By ensuring that all visitors to the temple come into contact with the Phra Tat, this model will maximize the promotion of precious architectural and Buddhist heritage in Esan.