GH Bank (ธอส.) has organized a house design competition under the theme “Elderly House” to provide an opportunity for students and youth to creatively design houses that are practical, aesthetically pleasing, comfortable, and safe. The designs should incorporate modern technology and be most beneficial for elderly living, in anticipation of Thailand's aging society in the near future. The competition awarded scholarships to three winners:

1. Mr. Parinya Netkam, Faculty of Architecture, Khon Kaen University, with the project titled “L House”.

2. Mr. Peerapol Sutthimakphol, Faculty of Architecture, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, with the project titled “Ban Wan Wan”.

3. Ms. Siriporn Kamkaew, Faculty of Architecture, Khon Kaen University, with the project titled “Ban U Yen”.

GH Bank (ธอส.) has collaborated with the Universal Design Center (Chula UDC) at Chulalongkorn University to create construction designs for all three elderly houses, along with preliminary pricing, available for free download at www.ghbank.co.th.

L HOUSE

Design Concept: Given the small land area, the building is positioned close to the land's edge to maximize usable space. Service areas are located on the west side to help block afternoon heat, while the elderly's bedroom is situated at the front for convenience. The open-plan layout connects the living area, dining area, and kitchen, making the small space feel more spacious and easier to care for the elderly. A large porch connects to the outdoor garden, allowing visibility of the elderly's activities. The Eco Design concept features a slanted roof with side vents to allow natural ventilation, keeping the house cool and energy-efficient. The front roof utilizes indirect natural light, ensuring sufficient brightness during the day.

Designer: Mr. Parinya Netkam from the Faculty of Architecture, Khon Kaen University.

Single-story house with an area of approximately 86 square meters (can be built on a plot of approximately 84 square wah).

The usable area includes 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a living area, a dining area, a kitchen, and a laundry area, along with a porch.

Parking space for 1 vehicle.

Starting price: 1.88 million baht.

Ban Wan Wan

Design Concept: Elderly people often enjoy reminiscing about the past, which brings them happiness, comfort, and a sense of safety from familiar surroundings. Many elderly individuals lived in traditional Thai-style homes before moving into modern houses. Therefore, the designer has incorporated elements of traditional Thai homes to evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection to nature.

Designer: Mr. Peerapol Sutthimakphol from the Faculty of Architecture, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang.

Single-story house with an area of approximately 97 square meters (can be built on a plot of approximately 92 square wah).

The usable area includes 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, a living area, a dining area, a kitchen, and a laundry area, along with parking space for 1 vehicle.

Starting price: 2.07 million baht.

Ban U Yen

Design Concept: The design emphasizes the connection between the transitional space and the porch under the trees. The entrance is appropriately sized for wheelchair access, creating a relaxing atmosphere with large glass windows that connect the living room, bedroom, and porch. Safe materials suitable for the elderly are used, making the house “U Yen” a relaxing and comfortable home for everyone.

Designer: Ms. Siriporn Kamkaew from the Faculty of Architecture, Khon Kaen University.

Single-story house with an area of approximately 95 square meters (can be built on a plot of approximately 100 square wah).

The usable area includes 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, a living area, a kitchen, and a laundry area, along with parking space for 1 vehicle.

Starting price: 1.58 million baht.

Those interested in the elderly house designs by GH Bank can request more information or consultation at the Universal Design Center (Chula UDC), Faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University, phone: 092-518-1301.