Thread: A Round Sala

I am wanting to break away a little for the rectangular sala and see about building one that is round in shape. Has anyone already done this so I don't have to reinvent the wheel? Any down sides, benefits or overall building comments to consider? All assitance and thoughts would be much appreciated. I am thinking of at least an 11 meter diameter, maybe more depending on the engineering limitations. I have 4 rai for a building lot, so plenty of room.

Sounds like you want a gazebo, the neighbor has one.

I would like something a little bigger than a Gazebo and something that would give me a minimum of 100 sq meters of shade. My plan is to have a small enclosed toilet, a pool table and enough areas to put a small bar, stereo and some chairs. Mexicans would call it a palapa, but most of the patios I have seen in Thailand are called salas and are rectangular or square in shape. Many of the Mexican palapas have thatched roofs, but I don't think I want that and would prefer some cement tiles or even a tin roof. It would just be an area next to the house for some outside living and relaxation.

a nice hexagonal or octagonal version would be easier to build

^
wot he said

Originally Posted by DrAndy

a nice hexagonal or octagonal version would be easier to build

Yes, a good 6 sided or 8 sided design might work, but I may need more sections depending how large I make it. What do you think Andy, am I too far outside the box or would this be possible given the constuction limitations in Thailand?

OK, here we go. Plans for a Thailand palapa. Does this look possible? Still not sure about the thatched roof.

How to Build a Palapa

The following directions are for one option only. Please know that you have many options and building styles to choose from; don’t hesitate to dive in and explore and ask questions.
The most important thing you can do, prior to building your palapa is to plan things carefully. Plan properly to avoid mishaps and poor construction. It can be difficult to remove and/or relocate a palapa so get any input available to you and find a proper location. The ideal spot for your palapa should have nothing overhanging and the ground must be free from obstructions. Be sure to contact your utility company if you need to do any digging. So you’ve made proper plans, discussed your options with family, friends, and your local tiki hut masters; be sure you have footings in place before you start building.
The Palapa posts and beams may be heavy and awkward so be sure to have trusty, strong helpers to assist. An “A” frame helps to stabilize the posts while leveling and plumbing. You might choose to elevate the posts off the patio using adjustable post bases. By doing this, you get the post off the floor and ensures it will not decay from water damage. This also makes the structure “portable”. This can come in handy depending on your local zoning ordinance. Galvanized lag bolts help to fasten all the framing together. Once you have the framing in place you can start “stringing” the latillas or prepping so your thatch will have support or something to lay on. (A latilla is a limb or thin pole, used as a ceiling material between beams). Depending on the design you choose, you may or may not use them.

Some folks have the latillas exposed with the bamboo reed or thatch sandwiched between the roof sheathing and the latillas. Your roof can take on it’s own unique character depending on the materials you choose. Bamboo, plywood, thatching, and a variety of other options will help serve you. If you are using latillas, once the latillas are in place and fastened together, lay the reeds or thatching across the latillas prior to stapling the plywood down. Be sure that someone is watching to be sure your reeding or thatch is in place before you fasten it.
Again, do the research and enjoy yourself! Your needs may differ and lead you to a whole different palapa experience.

Originally Posted by DrAndy

a nice hexagonal or octagonal version would be easier to build

And much easier for the Thai builders to understand and work with.

Yes, the center post design is used the most in this kind of design. Then it is a matter of having some support posts placed in the same pattern as your waggon wheel but not quite so many spokes. Just need enough to support the roof. I have quite a few pictures off the internet which will help quite a bit. Not that complicated, but I will need to be there or would probably wind up with a rectangular sala.
There are several examples shown made of bamboo which might be a good building material to use. Lots of it around and it is pretty strong. I would need to use a different wood for the center post and support posts, but using bamboo for the rest makes sense here in Thailand.

Originally Posted by rickschoppers

but I will need to be there or would probably wind up with a rectangular sala.

yes, a nine sided rectangular sala

Originally Posted by rickschoppers

using bamboo for the rest makes sense here in Thailand.

bamboo is fine, but you would then have to thatch it as bamboo is not heavy weight bearing

but thatching looks good, and is cheap too