In this world where everything relates to architecture. From Ground to space, from particles of soil to water and what not. A journey of non-architects always beholds an amazing experience within me. I am so happy to share such stories to the world where I found privilege to spend some time of my life with these people. From ancient history to current times, it is so difficult to say that we have left a few percent of our knowledge in terms of our ancestors. We were not even close to that. Following the same knowledge and to transfer it to the whole world, I met a man. I would like to say that it was my destiny where I worked with him. Chatar Singh Jam, a very well renowned non-architect who has all the knowledge of context, soil, water, wind, climate and materials. A person who spent his life journey in fields as a farmer. In today’s time he is proud of his family. Chatar Singh Jam, working with Sambhaav Trust, Jaisalmer and with other organisations and NGOs too. He has given his lifetime to understand this life so deeply.
People working in such Non-profit organizations are providing work at different levels. They are talking about ground works based on practicality. Sambhaav Trust is one of the NGOs that works for the community, for the people, and by the people. This system not only encourages community people but their coming generation to follow these steps where they have a sense of belonging. They are rich in their traditions and culture. These heroes are no other than architects. They are the real architects of society for us.
Vernacular wisdom beyond architecture schools:
Architecture includes a lot of hands-on learning and exploration of materials, spaces, and many more. When talking about farmers, and craftsmen, their perception of seeing things in the real world practically makes us understand various aspects of learning. The knowledge they hold helps us practically learn various techniques with challenges and handle these challenges with understanding different aspects of life. The knowledge they pass on to the coming generation helps us understand old techniques and philosophy which helps us understand and maintain the culture and traditional wisdom that came from our ancestors. The power of on-ground field work experiences builds confidence in the students as well as prepares them for more real challenges.
Real Architects of Sustainability: Artists, Local experts, Farmers, etc.
Community-driven understanding helps us in studying different climatic responsive design ideas, techniques, and vernacular practices of different regions. From material knowledge to the use of it, it provides us with numerous opportunities to explore it. NGOs working in different aspects of architecture help us in exploring different fields with various knowledge. The role of rural communities plays a vital role in keeping the heritage knowledge alive. This wisdom is culturally rich and long-term solutions for our major urban problems. Beyond these blueprints architects can help in preserving the cultural identity through construction and passing this knowledge to the generations.
Community Driven Architecture
Education grounded in community involvement is vital for bridging existing gaps in knowledge and practice. Examining case studies of self-built homes and community settlements reveals a wealth of information that can inform future architectural approaches. By acknowledging and integrating the lived experiences of these communities, we can cultivate a more inclusive and sustainable architectural framework that honors the past while innovating for the future.
