Luenrit Community Conservation and Rehabilitation Project
AFFILIATION
Chumchon Luenrit Co., Ltd.
DESCRIPTION
This was a community-led restoration and renovation project of a block of shophouses considered the first in Bangkok's Chinatown. Initiated by the tenants themselves, the project was a response to the owner's plan to demolish the buildings and construct a high-rise commercial structure. By joining forces, the tenants not only prevented the demolition but also renovated the shophouses for their own use. In 2022, the restoration work was completed, and the shophouses were reopened to the public.
This community-led project served as a valuable lesson for Thai society, highlighting the importance of collaboration between the community and civil society in the preservation and rehabilitation of significant landmarks. It went beyond mere opinion-sharing, incorporating key elements such as joint investment, co-management, and future planning to ensure a comprehensive approach.
In addition to preserving the buildings for the benefit of the original tenants, there was a shared vision of transforming the site into a vibrant public space. The goal was to provide the general public with an area for engaging in creative activities. While several successful activities have been organized in the past, the project faces a long-term challenge of effectively managing and realizing this vision. Navigating the complexities and meeting the diverse needs of the stakeholders involved will be essential to sustain and fulfil the envisioned concept.
![20230627_Luenrit_3.1](/sites/default/files/inline-images/20230627_Luenrit_3.1.jpg)