Definition
• Vernacular ArchitectureDefined
• - Refers to buildings designed based on local
needs, materials, and traditions.
• - Emphasizes sustainability and adaptation to
local environments.
• - Often not designed by architects but by local
builders or communities.
3.
History
• The Historyof Vernacular Architecture
• - Dates back to early human history, with
indigenous cultures developing structures to
suit their environments.
• - Examples: mud-brick houses in ancient
Egypt, yurts in Central Asia, stilt houses in the
Philippines.
• - Evolved through trial and error, relying on
available resources and climate conditions.
4.
Pioneers of Vernacular
Architecture
•Key Figures in Vernacular Architecture
• - Hassan Fathy: Egyptian architect known for
using local materials and techniques.
• - Christopher Alexander: Developed the
'Pattern Language' theory, which emphasizes
vernacular patterns in architecture.
• - Laurie Baker: British-Indian architect who
worked extensively in India, focusing on cost-
effective, sustainable building methods.
5.
Concepts of Vernacular
Architecture
•Core Concepts
• - Local Materials: Use of resources readily
available in the area.
• - Cultural Identity: Reflecting the customs and
traditions of the people.
• - Climate Responsiveness: Design adapted to
the local climate for thermal comfort.
• - Sustainability: Minimizing environmental
impact.
6.
Issues in VernacularArchitecture
• Challenges in Vernacular Architecture
• - Modernization vs. Tradition: Struggle to
balance traditional designs with modern
conveniences.
• - Loss of Craftsmanship: Fewer skilled artisans
and builders familiar with traditional methods.
• - Urbanization: Growing cities often overlook
vernacular techniques in favor of mass
production.
7.
Examples of Vernacular
Architecture
•Global Examples
• - Igloos (Arctic): Built from ice blocks, designed
to insulate against extreme cold.
• - Bahay Kubo (Philippines): Lightweight stilted
homes made of bamboo and thatch, suited to
tropical weather.
• - Adobe Houses (Southwestern USA): Made
from sun-dried bricks, excellent for warm, dry
climates.
8.
The Tropical House
•Designing the Tropical House
• - Open spaces for ventilation.
• - Use of lightweight materials like bamboo,
nipa, or palm leaves.
• - Roofs with steep pitches to handle heavy
rainfall.
• - Raised on stilts to prevent flooding and
encourage airflow.
9.
Ethnic Houses
• TraditionalEthnic Houses
• - Longhouses (Borneo, Indonesia): Homes for
large families or communities, built on stilts to
avoid flooding.
• - Tipis (Native American Plains): Easily
portable homes made from animal hides,
designed for nomadic living.
• - Tukul Houses (Ethiopia): Circular homes
made of thatch and wood, designed to keep
cool during hot days.
10.
Western vs. FilipinoDesign
Concepts
• Comparing Western and Filipino Architecture
• - Western Design: Often prioritizes aesthetics,
luxury, and innovation.
• - Filipino Design: Focuses on practicality,
resilience to tropical climates, and cultural
values like 'Bayanihan' (community spirit).
• - Western homes may emphasize insulation
and sealed environments, while Filipino
designs prioritize airflow and adaptability.
11.
Aspirations of aTropical House
• Key Features of a Tropical House
• - Passive Cooling: Maximize airflow to reduce
reliance on air conditioning.
• - Natural Lighting: Large windows and open
spaces to harness daylight.
• - Sustainable Materials: Use of bamboo, palm
leaves, or recycled materials.
• - Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting rainwater
for daily use.
12.
Building Laws andVernacular
Architecture
• Laws and Regulations
• - Many countries have building codes that may
not accommodate traditional designs.
• - Advocacy for revising building codes to allow
for sustainable, vernacular methods.
• - Striking a balance between safety standards
and vernacular traditions.
13.
Social, Moral, andProfessional
Ethics
• Ethical Considerations in Architecture
• - Cultural Sensitivity: Respecting the traditions
and practices of the people.
• - Environmental Responsibility: Designing with
sustainability in mind, minimizing carbon
footprints.
• - Social Equity: Ensuring that buildings serve
all members of a community, not just the
wealthy or privileged.
• - Professional Ethics: Architects must ensure
14.
Conclusion
• Conclusion
• -Vernacular architecture represents a
harmonious balance between humans and
their environment.
• - It offers valuable lessons for sustainability
and resilience in modern architectural
practices.
• - Revitalizing vernacular techniques is crucial
in addressing global environmental and
cultural challenges.