Communication-Driven Creative Placemaking and Cultural Tourism for Advancing SDG 8, 11, 12, and 17: Co-Designing a Terracotta Pot Check-In Point in Koh Kret, Thailand

Chanyanan Somthawinpongsai; Worawit Kaewsrinoum; Siyarat Kaewkeeree; Liangyan Lu; Mcxin Tee; Wei Jingchuan

doi:10.63931/ijchr.v7iSI3.316

Authors

Chanyanan Somthawinpongsai Shinawatar University, Thailand https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1651-196X
Worawit Kaewsrinoum Shinawatar University, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0007-8334-857X
Siyarat Kaewkeeree Shinawatar University, Thailand https://orcid.org/0009-0007-7969-0639
Liangyan Lu Yunnan College of Business Management, Kunming, China https://orcid.org/0009-0003-3069-1033
Mcxin Tee INTI International University, Nilai, Malaysia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7990-8377
Wei Jingchuan Shinawatar University https://orcid.org/0009-0007-4740-4757

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63931/ijchr.v7iSI3.316

Keywords:

Social innovation, community-based design, visual communication, sustainable tourism, SDGs, place as media, Koh Kret

Abstract

This study explores the design and implementation of a terracotta pot–based check-in point as a community-driven social innovation in Koh Kret, Thailand. Situated within a culturally rich locality known for its traditional pottery, the project integrates principles of visual communication, place-based storytelling, and participatory design to create a physical landmark that functions as both a tourism attraction and a cultural medium. Through a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach, local artisans, community leaders, and university researchers collaborated to co-design the check-in structure using recycled terracotta materials. The result is a visually engaging space that promotes community identity, stimulates cultural tourism, and encourages social media interaction through user-generated content. The project not only increases economic opportunities for local entrepreneurs but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride among residents.

Findings indicate that the check-in point acts as a communicative space, transforming the built environment into a storytelling platform that strengthens local identity. The initiative directly supports multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities), SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production), and SDG 17 (partnerships for the goals).

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