The term “vernacular architecture” refers to a kind of local or regional structure that makes use of customary materials and resources from the surrounding area. As a result, this architecture is significantly impacted by its surroundings and is cognizant of its unique geographic characteristics as well as cultural aspects. It is also tightly linked to its context. They are distinctive to many parts of the world as a result, sometimes even serving as a way to reinforce one’s identity.
The need for man to employ the natural resources available to him in order to provide himself with climate-responsive shelter and comfort as well as a protective barrier against the weather gave rise to vernacular architecture. It is a direct response to the demands of the individual or the community in terms of architecture, and it has enabled man—even before the architect—to design a dwelling that suits his wants.
The most basic way to meet human needs, vernacular architecture, seems to have been ignored in favour of modern design. But the trend has logically turned around due to recent increases in energy prices. Given that these buildings have shown to be ecological and energy-efficient, architects are incorporating regionalism and cultural construction customs. There is still a lot to gain from the traditional knowledge of vernacular construction in this day of fast technical innovation and urbanisation. Because these are the criteria that current architects more often than not overlook, these low-tech approaches of producing housing that is properly fitted to its region are amazing.
Climate Responsive Strategies
Sustainability is greatly enhanced by designing with climate change in mind. The built environment is impacted, including the surroundings, habitats, roadways, buildings, and urban infrastructure. The topography, climate, and geography of the areas where climate-responsive design is practised determine the built structures in vernacular architecture. The buildings, materials, and construction techniques are specific to that particular region of the climatic zones, whether they be hot, dry, cold, or humid. In cold temperature coastal places, for example, buildings are built with steep slope roofs; first floor spaces are utilised for dwelling, while ground floor levels are used for storage, cattle, and day-to-day activity. The locations are impacted by soil erosion, stormwater runoff, declining aquatic life, and poor water quality as the water seeps below. Vernacular architecture has undergone careful preservation to maintain its sustainable elements.
Use of Vernacular Materials
Higher expenses are associated with material use, extraction, and manufacture, as well as environmental consequences including air and water pollution. Local, regional, and easily accessible materials are highly preferred in vernacular buildings. Clay bricks, wood, bamboo, water reeds, limestone, laterite, straw, etc. are the main materials used. Unlike materials like concrete, glass, and metals, which are commonly used in the building industry today and produce a large amount of greenhouse gases, these materials emit very little carbon dioxide. Sustainability may be shown in materials like thatched roofs, bamboo, which is a quickly renewable resource, and wood, which serves as insulation.
Effective Construction Techniques
Green building practices are used for vernacular structures. Furthermore, they are stronger and more stable now than they were then. Domes, slanted roofs, air vents, timber-frame buildings, insulated wooden panels, rainwater collecting in arid regions, cooling towers, rammed earth, etc. are examples of the distinctiveness of ancient building methods. Features like decoration, joints between wooden parts, and sloped roofs—which help rain and snow slide off—increase sustainability and usefulness. For instance, cruck-framed homes have the appearance of a Christmas tree; the main trunks of the trees act as frames, and at the top, wall plates and ridge pieces connect pairs of straight and curved timbers. It reacts to the resources that are accessible locally.
Passive Design Strategies
Using passive design strategies, such creating courtyards, is one of the most important parts of vernacular architecture. For instance, the idea of courtyard design is to balance various variables, including architectural, socio-cultural, climatic/environmental, functional, and economical.
The courtyards could provide a number of long-term advantages.
- Sun rays are shielded by natural ventilation.
- Reduce the amount of time that the rooms are exposed to direct sunlight.
- When the heated ascending air is replaced with cooler air from the surroundings, a wind generator is used. As it gathers cold air, it produces a comfortable microclimate for the users.
Connecting People and Nature
People and nature are connected by vernacular architecture in a number of ways, including through built environment preservation of natural resources that contribute to environmental sustainability and through design, materials, features, and qualities. The spirit of sustainability is embodied in vernacular architecture, which includes for instance arched balconies, openings that connect to the outside world, houses surrounded by trees and plantations, and façades and envelopes built of natural materials like wood, stone, and clay.
A significant link between conventional wisdom and sustainable living can be seen in vernacular architecture. The concepts of vernacular design offer not just answers but also serve as a reminder of the importance of local resources and expertise as we negotiate the complexities of contemporary construction and environmental issues. By adopting these traditional methods, we can ensure that our constructions are as meaningful and sustainable as possible while also creating a future that honours our natural environment and cultural legacy. Vernacular architecture continues to be essential to sustainable development and architectural diversity globally as we investigate and innovate in this sector.
References:
- Ghisleni, C. (2020, November 25). What is Vernacular Architecture? ArchDaily. https://www.archdaily.com/951667/what-is-vernacular-architecture
- Thearchspace. (2023, November 28). 5 Important sustainable Strategies to Learn from Vernacular architecture. THE ARCHSPACE. https://thearchspace.com/5-important-sustainable-strategies-to-learn-from-vernacular-architecture/
