IwanUK wrote:
Can you explain to us non-Thai based falangs what a “shop house” is. Why is it called a “shop house”?
In this picture from Pattaya I found on the web there are five shop houses. They are called shop houses because they are designed to have a shop on the ground floor. The houses have a standard size and the rooms are long and narrow, usually with windows only on the front.
Many Chinese live in such houses and have their business on the ground floor and live above it. But sometimes the whole house is used as a residence.
Bars are often in shop houses, and if the owner wants a bigger bar he will use two shop house units next to each other and remove the wall between them. In that case you can often see a supporting pillar remain in the middle of the bar where the wall used to be.
Tags: apartment, Bangkok, shop house, Thailand
September 9th, 2006 at 12:53 pm
You didn’t mention that the ground floor also can be used as a single-car garage when the store is not open. Just push the racks of clothes (or whatever) to the sides and run the car right in. Pull down the garage door, padlock it to the ring in the ground and you’re in for the night.
The one in the picture looks nicer than the one you described. The street is wider, and there’s a balcony for hanging out your underwear.
But the one you saw would probably be quieter. In a deep soi-maze you’d have less traffic and less chance of a bar or snooker hall moving in next door.
September 9th, 2006 at 2:21 pm
Dear Same same
I agree but what “farang” in his right mind would want to buy a car and drive in Bangkok????
AL.
September 9th, 2006 at 5:29 pm
Hi Silom
First, let me say I love your writings. I come here everyday.
I am arriving in Pattaya next week for a 3 month stay in preparation to moving here. I am really interested in the shophouse concept.
I have a 31 year old Thai friend I’ve known for 13 years. When I’m in Thailand I call him my facilitator as he sees his job as one to smooth the path for me. When I’m not there he returns to his home village to work construction and farming.
He is intelligent and I think a shophouse would be great for the both of us. Added income and purpose for him and a place to stay for the both of us. I have yet to discuss this with him.
From checking some property websites, the monthly rental for these places can vary from very cheap to very expensive depending on location and condition. They seem to be everywhere.
September 9th, 2006 at 10:04 pm
The Bangkok Post is carrying a feature story on shophouses tomorrow, as it happens.
It includes comments from a couple of westerners who have converted and refurbished old shophouses in Bangkok for use as homes.