Vernacular Architecture

By: Hassan Wishyar Bazzaz, MSc, 2014

Vernacular architecture is a unique building style that is dis-tinct to a particular region or community and created without professional architects' involve-ment. Instead, this style of ar-chitecture relies on local knowledge, resources, and mate-rials to construct both function-al and sustainable buildings. It has been around for centuries and is essential to our cultural heritage.
The history of vernacular archi-tecture encompasses the build-ing traditions passed down through generations. The earli-est examples of vernacular archi-tecture can be traced back to the primitive structures built by early humans. As societies evolved and became more com-plex, so did architecture. The majority of all buildings built before the mid-17th century are considered vernacular because formal architects did not over-see these buildings.
The term "vernacular" became part of building discourse in the 19th century when colonialists discovered new building meth-ods in other parts of the world.
Over time, the term became more widely used to incorporate several styles of homes abroad and in Europe and the United States.
Vernacular architecture is char-acterized by its simplicity and lack of formal rules or aesthetic principles. The buildings are con-structed with affordable materials sourced locally, and the design focuses on function over beauty. Materials were generally afforda-ble and locally sourced, and the design evolved as local builders learned from their experiences and tweaked homes to reflect that experience.
These buildings often embody local technology, social condi-tions, and culture. You will see some common themes among vernacular architecture in a given area. The theme might mean sim-ilar materials or design styles that can be an assortment of other, more worldly styles. You might also see homes grouped closer together or apartment complexes in areas with a dense population. The design reflects the climate, with builders considering what direction the home is facing
when positioning windows and using specific materials to help with the winter season. Vernacu-lar architecture is an essential part of our cultural heritage. These buildings are unique to a particular region or community and reflect the local history, cus-toms, and way of life. In addition, they are built with affordable ma-terials and techniques passed down through generations, mak-ing them both sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Moreover, vernacular architec-ture is essential in creating a sense of community and social cohesion. These buildings are often located close to one anoth-er, creating a sense of shared his-tory and identity. They also re-flect the community's social con-ditions, with poorer residents living in smaller and less elaborate homes.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in vernacular architecture as people look for ways to build more sustainably and connect with their local com-munities. In addition, this style of architecture can inspire mod-ern builders and architects look-ing to create functional and envi-ronmentally friendly buildings.
So, it can be stated that, vernacu-lar architecture is an essential part of our cultural heritage that reflects the local history, cus-toms, and way of life. It is a sus-tainable and environmentally friendly building style passed down through generations. The buildings are simple, functional, and reflective of the local climate and social conditions. They cre-ate a sense of community and social cohesion and can inspire modern builders and architects looking to create sustainable and functional buildings.