9. Characteristic of Sustainable Location for Townhouse Development in Bangkok and Greater Metropolitan Area, Thailand

This study examines the relationship between the location and development of townhouses in the Bangkok Metropolitan Region, which has expanded considerably to cover a greater area. This rapid growth has caused many problems, particularly in the environment and quality of living for residents. The townhouse is an alternative residential type that is a response to the needs of the middle class. The objective of the study is to examine location characteristics for optimal townhouse development. The analysis explored the proper location for townhouses to provide understanding of the relationship between location and the time periods of housing development since 1967. The research revealed that each area has different characteristics that influenced housing settlements, and the numbers of projects differ significantly in each part of the city, depending on the urban context and the social and economic situations. Moreover, townhouse settlements have been diffused from inner-city Bangkok to the suburbs, while the suburban fringe has been in need of proper residential areas from 1977 to 2006 (the end date of the study). This movement demonstrates trends in the location of townhouses or housing developments that may help private developers in choosing potential sustainable locations for their new projects. This research may also aid city planners in formulating urban regulation guidelines to control or support townhouse development in the future.