An architectural style evolves over time, but the traditional architectural style of any place cannot be buried because it is the physical manifestation of the conscious assimilation of an older truth. Understanding vernacular architecture is essential for new-age architects to appreciate cultural heritage, traditional architecture, and climate-responsive design. Here are seven renowned vernacular architectural styles from across the globe that must not be forgotten.
Here are 7 renowned vernacular architectural styles from across the globe that must not be forgotten!
1. Newari Architecture (Kathmandu, Nepal)
Newari architecture in Kathmandu features houses with an odd number of storeys. The upper floors are made of wood, while the lower floors consist of sun-dried bricks to withstand the cold climate and reduce load. These houses have a 30-degree sloped gable roof covered with Jhingat tiles, which are tied to the walls with wedges for earthquake resistance. This style showcases a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, making it a vital part of Nepal's cultural heritage.
2. Dzong Architecture (Bhutan)
Dzongs in Bhutan are fortresses that house monastic bodies and civil administrations. They enclose a courtyard and have heavy load-bearing tapered stone walls with shallow sloped roofs. The white walls of these structures are embellished with carved wooden windows and cornices, emphasizing verticality. Dzong architecture is a prime example of how traditional architecture can integrate with local building techniques to create impressive and functional designs.
3. Shinto Architecture (Japan)
Shinto architecture in Japan consists of Buddhist shrines built entirely of hinoki cypress timber and bamboo frames without using nails or glue. These shrines are rebuilt every 20 years via a process known as Shikinen Shingu. They feature distinct hip roofs with upturned gables called Chigi, adorned with Katsougi. This style represents a harmonious blend of nature and spirituality, reflecting Japan's deep cultural heritage.
4. Nubian Architecture (Egypt)
Nubian architecture in Egypt incorporates a central courtyard for climatic and cultural response. These structures are made of mud and gravel, with timberless vaults made of earth bricks and mortar on the roof. The facades are decorated with mirrors, dried crocodiles, cow heads, adobe brick filigree, and geometric images in the mud. This style is a testament to climate-responsive design and the creative use of local materials.
5. Moroccan Architecture (Morocco)
Moroccan palaces are made up of pavilions arranged around a series of courtyards and riads, into which all the rooms and windows open. The walls are marble and stucco, and the floors are of Zellig style. These are adorned with geometric patterns, Quran verses, and colorful mosaics. The intricate designs and vibrant colors of Moroccan architecture reflect the region's rich cultural heritage and traditional architectural styles.
6. Cave Houses (Santorini, Greece)
Cave houses in Santorini, also known as Yposkafo, are characterized by whitewashed walls and blue domes. These houses are dug into volcanic rock, with additions constructed as superstructures. They have long spatial planning with narrow windows and facades. This style demonstrates simplicity and adaptability, perfectly blending with the island's natural landscape and climate.
7. Maori architecture (New Zealand)
The Maorians are the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand. Their architectural features, like carved figures, front barge boards, ridge-poles, and rafters, symbolize the human body's structure and represent their ancestors. Carvings on their homes are inspired by Maori legends, making this style a vital part of New Zealand's cultural heritage.
Tradition as a Binding Force
Tradition is the glue that holds an ethnic group's cultural fabric together by preserving the integrity and trust of the people's beliefs as they pass down through generations. As a result, no external forces can erode cultural traditions, as they are continuous and canonical. This enduring nature of tradition ensures that vernacular architecture remains relevant and respected, providing invaluable lessons for contemporary architectural practices.
Conclusion
Vernacular architecture is a living tribute to the ingenuity and cultural heritage of civilizations across the globe. By studying these traditional architectural styles, new-age architects can learn to create designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also climate-responsive and deeply rooted in cultural traditions. The adoption of vernacular architectural practices ensures the preservation of our cultural heritage and the continuation of sustainable architecture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q.1 What is vernacular architecture?
A. Vernacular architecture refers to traditional building styles that are specific to a particular region, culture, or community.
Q.2 Why is it important to study vernacular architecture?
A. Studying vernacular architecture helps preserve cultural heritage and promotes sustainable, climate-responsive design.
Q.3 What materials are commonly used in Newari architecture?
A. Newari architecture commonly uses wood for upper floors and sun-dried bricks for lower floors.
Q.4 How does Dzong architecture reflect Bhutanese culture?
A. Dzong architecture reflects Bhutanese culture through its monastic and administrative functions, vertical emphasis, and ornate carved wooden details.
Q.5 What is unique about Shinto architecture in Japan?
A. Shinto architecture is unique for its use of hinoki cypress timber and bamboo frames, constructed without nails or glue, and its periodic rebuilding process.
Q.6 What are the key features of Nubian architecture?
A. Nubian architecture features mud and gravel construction, timberless vaults, and decorative facades with mirrors, dried crocodiles, and geometric patterns.
Q.7 How do Moroccan palaces incorporate traditional architecture?
A. Moroccan palaces incorporate traditional architecture through their use of courtyards, marble and stucco walls, Zellig-style floors, and intricate geometric and mosaic designs.
Q.8 What makes Cave Houses in Santorini climate-responsive?
A. Cave Houses in Santorini are climate-responsive due to their construction into volcanic rock, which provides natural insulation and stability.
Q.9 What do Maori carvings represent in their architecture?
A. Maori carvings represent the human body's structure and ancestral legends, making their architecture deeply symbolic.
Q.10 How can new-age architects benefit from studying vernacular architecture?
A. New-age architects can benefit by learning sustainable building practices, climate-responsive design, and preserving cultural heritage through vernacular architecture.
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