A Bamboo House Embraced by Nature

A bamboo house with contemporary appeal sits immersed in its natural surroundings. The home that’s also a medical clinic belongs to Nopharat Pitchanthuk MD, and his wife Kanyapak Silawatanawongse. Without question, his interest in the natural therapeutic concept is expressed in the warm, inviting atmosphere of the home office. The orthopedic doctor provides specialized care for the musculoskeletal system in the comfort of a peaceful country setting.

/// THAILAND ///
Story: Napasorn Srithong /// Photography: Nathawut Pengkamphoo, Anupong Chaisukkasem /// Stylist: Suanpuk VRW

Dr. Nopharat and his better half Kanyapak are all smiles in front of their bamboo house.

Asked how all this was accomplished, the physician said: “Upon graduation from medical school, I taught medicine and operated a clinic in Bangkok for several years before coming out to Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima. At first, we opened a branch office in the city area just to get an idea about patient demands in the provinces.

The attractive two-story home is evidence of streamlined design that fits into the natural surroundings.

Bamboo is the material of choice for the design encapsulating the good qualities of Thai-style residential architecture. Gable roof is pitched at an angle that drains storm water fast, thus preventing against leaking.

“I was fortunate enough to receive help from a kindhearted person senior to me. He wanted to help patients in the rural area to have access to medical care. So, he let us use a facility free of charge for the purpose of opening a clinic. After having done it for a while, we felt like we were overstaying the welcome. At the same time, we needed a facility that would be more relaxed and convenient for the patients – preferably a greenery space that was comfortable, well lighted, open and airy. Just didn’t want them to feel tense and unable to relax as was the case with a hospital visit in general.”

She said: “For a while, we went searching for a location that would suit our specific needs. We eventually came to a parcel of land that Kanyapak’s mother had bought some 20 years back. It was woodland filled with dense shrubbery and other plants. We had the area cleared to make room for a grassy lawn, and had new trees planted. Eventually it was ready for a wedding ceremony to take place. Needless to say we have grown emotionally attached to it from day one. Hence, the new house and the medical clinic that has been relocated from the city.”

A hanging fixture directs light to specific points in the main hallway. Ample glass windows and transoms allow plenty of natural light during daytime hours.

Exposed brickwork alternating with timber in shades of warm earth tones adorns the dining area adjoining the kitchen.

High ceilings, big windows, and open floor plans combine to make the interior space look large and airy. On one side, a mezzanine is easily accessible from the living room.

A sofa set in shades of indigo paired with earth tones on the walls and floor reduces a monotonous regularity in the interior living space. Nearby, a large awning window opens up to connect with the outdoors.

Bamboo is strong and can be used proportionally to the weights for which it’s intended. It’s fast growing, easy to find, and reasonable as a building material. While it’s prone to be affected by moisture and insects, it can last a long time if well maintained.

A Bamboo House Embraced by Nature