Vernacular Architecture — the solution to our architecture problems?
Buildings are responsible for almost half of all global energy use, produce 40% of greenhouse gas emissions, consume 25% of all drinkable water, and account for 20% of all solid waste produced in developed countries.
Hence, in today’s age of activism and urgency regarding reducing our impact on the environment, it can be argued that it should be one of the priorities of scientists, architects and the general public to reduce the impact of human constructions and settlements. Therefore, roughly 9 months ago when I began my ‘personal project’ as a part of the IB program, I decided that I would investigate my interest in architecture, but at the same time try and come to a conclusion regarding how architecture could be improved for greater sustainability.
To do so, I focussed my research on the field of vernacular architecture, which is the field of architecture relating to traditional building practices which originated when humankind was forced to use the resources around them to provide shelter, comfort and protect themselves. My theory was that if this form of architecture was integrated into contemporary architecture, it would be possible to make architecture more sustainable while using minimal modern technology and hence, also manage costs.
To test this thesis, I set out to create 2 architectural plans on the 3-D modelling software ‘Sketchup’ in which both plans were created for the setting of Southern Karnataka in India but where one plan was created for the upper strata of society and one for the lower strata of society. To make these plans realistic I had to consider aspects such as cost, materials, size and audience and tried my best to integrate my research on vernacular and sustainable architecture.
For reference, the major conclusions of the aforementioned research for the design process are as follows:
- windows and vents must be positioned to maximize the input of natural energies and minimize energy losses.
- Thermal insulation can be used to minimize energy losses
- The use of local/repurposed materials can lead to reduced GHG emissions from transportation and processing.
- Inspiration may be taken from previous vernacular architecture such as the Casbah of Iceland and the Wada Housing of India.
The two plans have been attached below and include detailed annotations on how vernacular architecture has been used in the plan along with other techniques for increased sustainability.
My hope is that these plans would inspire change in the field of architecture or increase awareness on such techniques for the general public to possibly consider these ideas for the buildings they see around them. This project has been extremely enriching for me and I hope that this glimpse into the process has done the same for you.
