Architectural Heritage
The cultural built of Phuket is a reflection of the settlement's prosperity during the tin boom days. The towns is unique in Thailand, but resembles that of the British, which comprised, Penang, Malacca and Singapore. The architecture is usually called 'Sino-Portuguese'. Portuguese influence would have been rather indirect, via Malacca's historic influence on Straits Settlements architecture. Although Phuket had early contacts with the Portuguese, most evidence of European settlement was destroyed during the Burmese invasion.
Phuket town was really modelled after British colonial Penang, and that was the origin of any European influence on its architecture. Upon close examination, it is evident that Phuket's shophouses and villas resemble those in Penang in form, materials and design, although the occasional Thai motif reminds us that we are in Thailand. Phuket oral tradition in several cases claim that Penang architects, builders and materials were brought to Phuket for its best mansions. We are waiting for old building plans to be revealed to prove that this was indeed so. Thai architects entered the scene no later than 1930, and from then on, Phuket architecture began to diverge from Penang style.
In 1993, the Siamese Architects Association recognized this historic area with a conservation award given collectively to 'Shop and houses of Phuket city centre' on Thalang, Krabi, Dibuk, Phangnga, Rasada, Ranong, Yaowarat and Phuket Roads. These eight roads, plus two lanes, namely Soi Romanee and Soi Sun Uthit, form the pre-Second World War town.
Phuket town has modernised with the rest of the island. In the historic centre, the narrow streets have to accommodate motorised traffic, while the footpaths are impenetrable in some parts. The streets are largely intact, though broken up in some places by blocks modern infill and oversized plastic signage. On the whole, the character of old Phuket town is distinctive and charming enough to attract both Thai and foreign visitors.