EiABC

Ethipian institute of Architecture,

Building construction and City development
Addis Ababa University

THESIS TITLE:
Transforming Sidama Vernacular in to
a Contemporary Architectural Style

BSc Thesis Proposal

Advisor : Tadesse Girmay By: kaleb Alemayehu Tilahun

(Architect and Archilogist) ID: ETR/4875/09
Chair of Conservation of Urban & email: [email protected]
Architectural Heritage development

August,2021,Addis Ababa
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

DECLARATION

I hereby declare that this thesis,prepaed for the Bachelor of degree in Architecture entitled
“Transformaton of Sidama Vernacular in to a Contemporary Architectural Style” is my
original research work prepared independently by my own effort with the close advice and
guidance of my advisor.

I also declare that this thesis has not been presented in any university and all sources that I
have used or quoted have been indicated and acknowledged by means of complete
references.

Kaleb Alemayehu Tilahun

Signature: --------------------------------

Date :--------------------------------------

i
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First and for most I would like to thank Jesus Christ without whom nothing is possible.
I am grateful to the Graduate School of Addis Ababa University and Ethiopian
Institute of Architecture, Building Construction and City Development (EiABC) for the
priviledge I have received to study and explore in my acadamic career.

I like to forward my heartfelt gratitude to my advisor Mr.Tadesse Girmay for his invalu-
able comments and continuous follow-up throughout my research. I am also grateful to
the families in the case areas who were willing to be interviewed, share their tradition and
knowledge.

I would also pass my appreciation to my families,especially my older sister Lidya Ale-

mayehu for her keen and active cooperation to facilitate the interviews.

Kaleb Alemayehu Tilahun

August 2021

ii
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

LOCAL TERMINOLOGIES

Local Terms Meaning

Kalla Sir
motte group of specialized mediators who are heads of the
main clans
qaae Compound
banato one of the clans in Sidama
Worancha a village around Tulla
Buyyo thatch used to construct the roof
olicho living room
Duko Bed room
Bosalo kitchen
Hadiru livestock
alicho one of the clans in sidama who live in the highlands
saaolla one of the clans in sidama
korkoro bet Modern Cis roofed house
Jara Qerar a village located south of jara
Jara Hirnesa a village located south of jara
Jara Damowa a village located east of jara
fengo bamboo woven Sidama house with a porch
sheeka roof thached sidama house
sidancho a bamboo woven sidama house with a single entrance
mate tulla a village in tulla district
gojjo traditional house
iota Sidama traditional home division
Chinancho crew of expert weavers
Murcha a leader who guides the construction
tukuls a house
akaako darga holy place

iii
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

Local Terms Meaning

Magano God the creator

gadaana genertional class
woma revered elderly men who have survived two
generations of the generational class structure
Cimeesa a ritual leader
womu-songo senate led by a woma
hayoo wise man
halaale truth
moote songo a meeting lead by moticha
ollaa songo local council
Luwa multi-generational institution
Darrara first class grade(7 year)
Moggisa second class grade(7 year)
Hirbbora Third class grade(7 year)
Fullaasa Fourth class grade(7 year)
Wawaasa Fiveth class grade(7 year)
fiche cambalala a new year's festival
Warka a tree

iv
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

TABLE OF CONTENT
Declaration ..................................................................................................................i
Acknowledgement ......................................................................................................ii
Local terminologies.....................................................................................................iii
List of Figures .............................................................................................................vii
Abstract .......................................................................................................................viii

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................1
1.1. problem statement ................................................................................................2
1.2. Hypothesis ............................................................................................................2
1.3. Research Question ............................................................................................... 2
1.4. objectives ..............................................................................................................3
1.5. Significance of the study.......................................................................................3
1.6. Scope and limitations of the study........................................................................3
1.7. Methodology ........................................................................................................4
1.8. Research Design Deagram ...................................................................................4

CHAPTER TWO

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATUR

2.1 Vernacular Architecture.........................................................................................5
2.2 Features of vernacular Architecture...................................................................... 5
2.3 Factors Influencing Vernacular Architecture .......................................................6
2.4 Vernacular Architecture of Ethiopia .....................................................................8
2.5.Sidama Vernacular Architecture......................................................................... ..11
2.6 Culture of Sidama ................................................................................................ 13
2.7 Cultural Institutions in Sidama............................................................................. 14
2.8. Cultural tourism in Sidama ................................................................................ 16
2.9 Contemporary Architecture ............................................................................. .....17

CHAPTER THREE

CASE STUDY
3.1 Warka Village ...................................................................................................... 18
3.2 Yuanheguan Village .............................................................................................19
3.3 Hebei, Pergola ......................................................................................................21
3.4 Mountain House in Mist....................................................................................... 22
3.5. Conclusions........................................................................................................ 23

v
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

CHAPTER FOUR

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
4.1 Description of the Study Area .................................................................................23
4.2 Data Collection....................................................................................................... 23
4.3. Techniques of Data Analysis................................................................................... 25
4.4. Structure of Documentation................................................................................... 25

CHAPTER FIVE

ANALYSIS
5.1 Case One- Mate Tulla..............................................................................................26
5.2. Case Two-Jara Damowa ........................................................................................31

CHAPTER SIX

DISCUSSION
6.1 Discussion on the existing data ................................................................................34
6.2 Discussion Participants............................................................................................ 34
6.3 Summary of Focus Group Discussion .....................................................................35
6.4. Observation .............................................................................................................35
6.5 Main issues raised by focus discussions ..................................................................35
6.6 Reasons for disappearance of vernacular architecture............................................. 36

CHAPTER SEVEN

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

7.1 Conclusions .............................................................................................................37
7.2 drawbacks and solutions which are
adapted in Sidama Vernacular houses........................................................................... 38
7.3 Recommendations ...................................................................................................39

REFERENCE.................................................................................................................40
APENDEX......................................................................................................................41

vi
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1 Map of Ethiopia, from google online map 8

Figure 2.a) Decorated chikka house in the South
Omo Zone © O. Moles – CRAterre 9
Figure 3 a) Houses with stone masonry in Tigray 9
Figure 4. a) Bamboo and thatch house (Dorze people in Gamo) 10
Figure 5. a) Nomads’ hut in Awash Valley 10
Figure 7. a) sidancho house front view 11
Figure 8. a) Sheeka house front view 12
Figure 9. a) Sheeka house front view 12
Figure 10. a) top view of warka village,cameroon 18

Diagram 1. showing the research design program 4

Table 1 Data collection and sources, tools and techniques 24

Table 2 the selection summary of the case study areas and
vernacular houses 25
Sketch 1. Village (worancho) 27
Sketch 2. Sketch analysis of vernacular house 27
Sketch 3. section of the village (Mate Tulla) 27

vii
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

ABSTRACT

Vernacular designs are the result of humanity's research and discovery in order to build a
comfortable living environment. It develops from local materials, which might be either
physical or cultural in nature. Vernacular architecture differs from place to location as a
result of the interaction of culture, environment, materials, and tradition.

Sidama is one of the several areas where vernacular Houses are popular.The study exam-
ines the characteristics and possible transformations of the original Sidama vernacular
architecture in the areas surrounding Hawassa, the capital city.

More over,the research focus on the rural village around lake Hawassa;so as to identify the
effect of urbanization on traditional housing trend and the impact it has brought on cultural
practices in reference to their social life.Besides, the study indicates the reasons for trans-
formation. additionally, the research gives an insight to develop an adaptable prototype
which will be constructed with local knowledge to positively emphasize the elements of
vernacular Architecture within the framework of sustainability.

The study employed case study method to observe different scenarios in which data collec-
tion tools were interviews,questioners, and personal observation. Infact the study took case
areas found on the Opposite sides of Hawassa city inorder to compare the additive impact
of urbanization on rural housing and to understand the need for transformation.The data
gathered for the study was analyzed qualitatively using pictures, maps and sketches.

The analysis and findings clearly indicated Sidama vernacular houses need to transform
so as to bring strong cultural dynamics with a conserved tradition;which can be adapted to
the neighborhood villages.

viii
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

CHAPTER ONE

1. Introduction
Architecture as an art of designing has been the major means to enhance/improve the
way of living through out human history. From the earliest construction to provide
shelter and security, to recently technological advancement that takes advantage of
vertical space; The way in which architecture has changed over time reveals the need
of urbanization in human life is immanent.

Since the industrial revolution in 18th century mass production of steel and glass gave
the architects, engineers the freedom to experiment on additional materials;where it
has huge impact on construction substance and style at the time.

currently,the effect of urbanization and rapid population growth has become a vivid
reality of our globe; where the wave of urbanization paved a way for a global integra-
tion. However the influence of forign culture and practices has intensely affected
developing countries interms of maintaining there own tradition of lifestyle,culture
and identity.

Ethiopia as part of developing country is changing time to time,where the government

is immensely carrying out different projects accross the nation. The city fabric is
continuously changing with align type of construction techniques and building styles.

Eventhough the country’s current urbanization is being impel by intermediary

cities,lack of common characters that reflects national features is becoming a threat to
the Ethiopian way of construction.

More than 80% of our population is living in a rural areas. Failing to incorporate
vernacular buildings with current city fabric will eventually drain Ethiopian type of
construction and character.

Vernacular houses have their own unique qualitys and characters based on there
climates, material availabilty, tradition and the like. moreover looking for the past to
build for the future is a great way to elevate our notable customs and values.

This research will cover the limitations of the Sidama house and provide an alteran-
tive way of transforming the Sidama Vernacular house in to a contemporary Architec-
tural stye.

1
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

1.1 Problem statement

Cities in Ethiopia are pacing with the rapid urban expansion where most of them are
loosing certain characters that reflects to the bigger picture of Ethiopian way of con-
struction.

The Sidama region can be seen as part of these infliction interms of strange building
charachters that oppose to the custom of there construction.The region have well
endowed rich culture that can be nurtured to alleviate alien way of construction and
designs. But the desire to fasten urbanization is laying a big hand on the venacular
hosing style.

The lack of having Cultural centers that can enhance community customs and traditions
are part of the cause for the threat on Vernacular Houses. Rapid urbanization and mass
housing are the other key issues that trigger forign architectural styles which are con-
trary to the characters and features of the region.Certainly there will be a great change
after some time when such rapid urbanization takes control over the traditional vernacu-
lar housing.

Hawassa is the major hub of these influence with a clear insight of the threat on veracu-
lar architecture. keeping to ignore former traditions and values will lead to a borrowed
lifestyle and norm.

1.2 Hypothesis
If the Sidama vernacular houses have a tremendous potential to express culture,context,
climate and sense of places in reference to sustainable design, then transforming these
houses in to a contemporary Architectural style will maintain the tradition and customs
of the region in line to the rapid urbanization and population growth.

1.3 Research questions

1. Do our cities reflect Ethiopian way of construction and charater?

2. why do we ignore to transform veracular Architecture?

3. what is the meaning of contemporary Architecture?

4. How do we fill the gap between rapid urbanization and tradition?

2
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

1.4 Objectives
1.4.1 General objectives

The general objective of the study is to analyze the characteristics and transformation of the
original Sidama vernacular houses and the impact of urbanization on historical essence of
the culture.
1.4.2 Specific objectives
1. To explore the compound pattern and houses.
2. To identify the natural materials used for typical vernacular houses.
3. To investigate traditional construction techniques of vernacular houses.
4. To investigate indigenous house design concepts and ideas.
5. To identify architectural functions and spatial organizations strategies of typical
vernacular houses.
6. To create a transformed cultural village while maintaining traditional practices.

1.5 Significance of the study

The information gathered and the data collected by various methods will be integrated to
give a clear picture on the major problems and limitations of the Sidama vernacular
architecture so that various suggestions and recommendations will be drafted to enhance
and transform the Sidama vernacular house inorder to meet the current urbanization process.

It will create a better way of approach to urbanization process in order to integrate tradition
and modernity in one harmony. In addition to that it gives a great scale of necessity for the
traditional vernacular houses to be preserved and maintained with altering it’s some
elements to make it more like modern, and become more capable to adapt new and different
requirements as time goes through.

1.6 Scope and limitations of the study

1.6.1 Scope

This proposition is scoped By Taking Hawassa as a case study.The research will focus
to develop a regional Architectural charcter that can easily be adopted to formulate a
common feature that is responsive to culture and context.

Since evoulution of architectural styles emanate from culture,religion,availabilty of

material,construction techniqes, philosophy and the like.
The study will cover a deep analysis on “Sidama House” inorder to formulate and drive
different alternative ways that can fit to the contemporary Architectural styles.

3
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

1.6.2 Limitations

Despite the great neccesity to develop a concise and well studied research; this notion is
compelled by limitations in finance, a difficult season, a very short time frame and resources
that force to narrow the scope.

1.7 Methodology

In this section different methods are applied to conduct a relevant and appropriate information
and data in order to come up with the desired goals and objectives.

Primary source
- Observation
- Interviewing
- photo analysis
- questioners
Secondary source
- Literature review (reading)
- Case study
- comparative analysis
1.8 Research Design Program

Research question

Literature review Cases study

Cases I Cases II

Background study

Analysis and interpretation

Findings and recommendation

Design proposal
Diagram 1. showing the research design program

4
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

CHAPTER TWO

2.Literature Review
2.1 Vernacular Architecture

The word “vernacular” translated as native, indigenous, domestic. It’s also referred as char-
acteristics of a period, place, or group. vernacular Architecture evolves out of local resources
which might be physical(material) or intangible resources(culture,norm and society).
As a result, it is unique to each place based on its identity;consequently it varies from place
to place based on the context its suited in.

Other scholars like Frank Lloyd Wright describe vernacular Architecture as : “folk building
growing in respone of a certain needs,fitted into environment by people who knew no better
than to fit them with native feelings.” Stating the lack of transformation for additional
demands that require intellectual interventions. The evolution of vernacular houses are deep-
ely rooted to the need and custom of a certain society; starting from simple shelter to more
sophisticated construction techniques.

2.2 Features of vernacular Architecture

Since Architecture is the result of human continious endevior to flourish life; vernacular
houses are part of these attempt to express the society at large. Scholars broadly summerize
vernacular buildings as the ones with attached symbols/idiom and as an aesthethic preten-
sions.

Cultural expressions demand for a common language which affirms to the societal customs
,needs and a shared vocabulary. perhaps its influence on traditional houses are additive quali-
ty in a way it integrates nature to become more environmentally friendly as most of them are
designed at human scale.

According to Maria, (2017) the vernacular architecture has been growing over time with
continuities, changes, transformations, and adaptations to the different social and economic
conditions of each period in response to actual needs with the available means of every
place. At the same time, some discontinuities can be observed in its path. Continuities in
vernacular architecture are closely related to space, time and materiality and include
structural, typological, functional and social issues with multiple readings and
interpretations.

5
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

2.3 Factors Influencing Vernacular Architecture

Religion

Religion has an impact on the shape, design, spatial arrangements, and orientation of a
house, and it is seen that religion is the driving force behind the creation of circular and
rectangular dwellings. It's possible that the lack of round houses in a civilization is related to
the requirement of heavenly orientation, as round structures are difficult to orient. The distri-
bution of round and rectangular homes in Africa is connected to the spread of religion, and
numerous examples may be discovered, such as the Zulu, who utilize circular dwellings and
may not have any straight lines. The Trano of Madagascar, on the other hand, is orientated
according to precise axes and astronomical regulations (Amos., 1969.)

Building Layout and Size

The building layout, or the usual shape of a building plan, is another influencing aspect.
Many cultural, historical, and urban planning traditions are frequently associated with it.
There are three main plans in traditional structures, circular, rectangular, and linear plans
have been recognized (row houses or wagon-houses in Romania). The best seismic resis-
tance is provided by the circular floor plan. The size of a structure is the third and last factor.
Single-story and multistory buildings are the two categories of constructions based on their
height. The size of the structure is determined by its intended usage. A home, for example,
can be utilized for sleeping solely, sleeping plus eating, or mixed use (sleeping, eating, and
working). Mixed-use buildings clearly entail the construction of an additional level, which
necessitates enhanced wall load bearing capability, especially if these walls must also endure
earthquake effects. It's worth noting that the size of a structure is influenced by the popula-
tion pattern and housing density in a specific location. Single-story buildings, for example,
are popular in rural settings, while multistory buildings are more typical in highly populated
urban areas.

Climate and the Need for Shelter

Climate determinism is generally accepted in both architecture and cultural geography, but it
has lately been proven to be less so in the latter. One does not have to dispute the importance
of climate to doubt its influence on the development of constructed form. In architecture, the
climatic determinist viewpoint, which is still widely believed, asserts that primitive man's
primary concern is shelter, and that, as a result, climate must govern design.

As a result, we design buildings to maintain a constant environment and keep predators out.
To keep our metabolism going, we cultivate, collect, and devour food (Archer, 1963). While
this is debatable now in terms of housing and food, it is not true even for primitive man, who
had many different types of dwellings and dietary taboos and limits within his scarcity econ-
omy..

6
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

Materials, Construction, and Technology

The availability of local building materials is the primary element affecting the development
of vernacular construction techniques. The usage of the following constituent materials for
walls has been regulated in many locations by locally accessible resources: adobe (mud
blocks or entire walls), masonry (stone, clay, or concrete blocks), and wood. A variety of
materials are frequently utilized in the building.

The use of masonry walls as the load-bearing framework is the most common vernacular
home building method. The most basic approach is to utilize sun-baked blocks, often known
as adobe, as explained in the preceding section. Where wood or coal fuel is available, burnt
clay bricks are often used. Clay brick has been utilized in various regions of the world for
millennia as a traditional construction material. In certain areas, stone is the most readily
accessible material. Housing has also been built out of unshaped stone blocks found in the
field.

Economics

Economics has long been used to explain settlement and structure, and its significance is
undeniable. In a scarcity economy, the desire to live and maximize resource usage is so high
that these factors are likely to wield enormous power. If economic forces are not dominating
even under those conditions, the case for economics as a gear & ally determining form seems
dubious. Even in scarcity economies, there are numerous cases of herders living alongside
agricultural people who not only refuse to embrace the available economy, but really despise
it and the people who practice it.

Other Factors

Vernacular architecture does not entirely conform to established standards since it is an

additive and evolutionary architecture influenced by a variety of variables such as the resi-
dents' economic condition, family expansion, and the unanticipated requirement for a new
function.

The restoration process today is the consequence of a certain reverence for the past, as well
as a need for extra space, maintenance, and renewal (Levant, 2004 ). According to the author,
the flat earth roofs of Mount Lebanon communities are being replaced with imported red
tiles on pitched roofs in a relatively short time. The evolution of the home in the rural envi-
ronment, from virtually barren and simple single room to a house full of European style
furniture and contemporary kitchenware, reflects the village's transformation. The communi-
ty, which was nearly self-sufficient and self-contained, was where life revolved and was
focused about: land, kinship, and religion was in a few decades transformed into a suburb.

7
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

2.4 Vernacular Architecture of Ethiopia

The Great Rift Valley, which runs southwest to northeast and is surrounded by lowlands,
steppes, or semidesert, divides Ethiopia's vast highland complex of mountains and separated
plateaus. Climate, soils, vegetation, and settlement patterns are all influenced by this variety.
The country's height range is split into five climatic zones: Kolla (tropical weather), Woina
Dega (subtropical weather), Dega (cool weather), Bereha (desertic weather), and Worch
(winter weather) (afro-alpine areas above 3,200m).

Figure 1 Map of Ethiopia, from google online map

The climate in Ethiopia's highlands is healthy and moderate for the most part. The air is
chilly in the summer and gloomy in the winter on the uplands. Currently, the country is
undergoing massive urbanization, with the number of rural residents rapidly decreasing. This
demonstrates the need of documenting and studying existing vernacular houses before they
lose their rich social and cultural heritages to fast urbanization.

Vernacular architecture is defined by a close relationship between designers', constructors',

and users' knowledge of the norms. The contribution of this very useful talent and knowledge
to Ethiopia's present housing construction remains unnoticed. Roundhouses (tukul) with
walls made of various materials and thatch roofs are quite widespread all throughout the
nation in terms of shape.

8
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

Rectilinear homes are less frequent than roundhouses, although they are progressively
replacing roundhouses to make the use of CGI sheets for roofing easier. In the north of the
nation, roundhouses with thatch roofs are known as sarbet (grass hut), whereas rectilinear
houses with CGI sheets roofs are known as korkoro bet. The old book of Ethiopian vernacu-
lar housing, according to Gebremedhin (1971), may be categorized into four groups based on
wall types:

1) Timber structure with earth and fibers filling (chikka)

2) Load-bearing stone masonry walls with earthen mortar
3) Bamboo and thatch walls
4) Wood and mats huts from nomads

1) Timber structure with earth and fibers filling (chikka bet)

Chikka homes are roundhouses with thatch roofs, but as the cost of thatching grass grows
and competent builders become harder to come by, metal roofs are being utilized more
frequently. Thatched roofs have the disadvantage of being combustible, but they also allow
you to cook without a chimney since smoke may travel through the roof.

Figure 2.a) Decorated chikka house in the South b) Chikka house with CGI sheet roof near Awasa (Oromia)
Omo Zone © O. Moles – CRAterre

2) Load-bearing stone masonry walls with earthen mortar

This sort of structure may be found in Ethiopia's northern regions. The stone is a plentiful
resource in these areas. Houses are typically square or circular in shape and constructed of
stone. There are single-story square or roundhouses as well as two-story circular homes.
Foundations are made of basalt. Large, well-carved stones are put in the corners of square
homes, with smaller stones filling the rest of the walls. Earth and straw are used to make
mortar.

Figure 3 a) Houses with stone masonry in Tigray b) Load bearing stone masonry walls in Tigray CC-Bernard Gagnon.
9
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

3) Bamboo and thatch walls

This method is widespread in Ethiopia's southern regions, particularly in Gamo and Sidama.
Split bamboos are buried into the ground every 10 cm or so in a circular or oval shape to
construct the structure. A succession of vertical bamboos are linked to make circles or ovals
with a diameter that decreases as one climbs higher. After that, bamboo leaves are used to
cover the bamboo framework (sometimes also with grass). To let the smoke out, little holes
at mid-height are common. Dorze homes lack a center pole, but Sidama houses do and have
a larger surface area.

Figure 4. a) Bamboo and thatch house (Dorze people in Gamo) Figure 4. b) Sidamo Fengo house type. CC-Naturalhomes

4) Wood and mats huts for nomads

Nomads in the Afar and Somali areas live in these structures. The ladies construct, disassem-
ble, and load them onto the camels.
Women are the owners of huts. The materials for the shelters are generally gathered by men.
Both are constructed from a branch armature tied with palm fiber and covered with matting.
To protect the animals from predators, each set of huts is generally encircled by a hedge or
wall.

Figure 5. a) Nomads’ hut in Awash Valley (Afar) ©T. Joffroy – CRAterre, b) Nomads’ hut in Ogaden (Somali) ©G. vant
Klooster -FAO.

10
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

2.5. Sidama Vernacular Architecture

Sidama cultural home, like many other Ethiopian traditional houses, is made up of two types
of housing: highland and lowland dwellings (SCCTD, 2017). Except for the reason for which
they are created, there is little variation in home layout, style, or interior decor (lowland
houses are built with much ventilation openings). While both buildings have a central heeli-
cho (pillar), the highland house (sheeka) has a wall and roof that are built from the ground
up, with splinted bamboo fanned together like a basket. The lowland home has timber walls
and grass-thatched roofs from the top to the bottom, and its waft bamboo is wrapped in
sheath.

2.8.1 Types of Vernacular Houses in Sidama

In general, the society have three type of house style these classification is based on weather
condition of the surrounding.

1, low land- ‘sidancho’ 2, temperate- ‘sheeka’ 3, highland- ‘fengo’

1) Sidancho
This style of structure is distinct from sheeka and more like to fengo, although it is longer
than fengo owing to the need for ventilation to combat the ambient warmth. Bamboo is used
as a working material.

Figure 7. a) sidancho house front view cc: natural homes. b) sidancho house with a compound
2) Sheeka
This structure is medium in size and constructed with wood and grass. It distinguishes itself
from others by having a veranda on the gate and a mud-covered wall that is painted with
color.

Figure 8. a) Sheeka house front view b) Sheeka house under construction

11
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

3) Fengo
These type is the most known building type and use similar constriction material with sidan-
cho (i.e. bamboo tree, tid as pillar).

Figure 9. a) Sheeka house front view b) Sheeka house under construction

The Sidama dwell in circular tukuls that resemble beehives. In one compound, there may be
multiple tukuls as well as a vegetable garden. A woven bamboo or euphorbia fence can be
used to encircle a compound. Bamboo is used to construct the framework. Grass and ensete
leaves cover the walls and roof. This is bolstered prior to the rainy season. Two bamboo
panels are placed between the waterproofing leaves. A modest front porch is generally
included at the entry. People (to the right) and calves share space inside the house (to the
left). Beds and seats make up furniture.

The material chosen largely determines the shape and structure of Sidama typology. The
bamboo plant's elasticity creates the onion form and circular design. The Sidamas prefer to
conduct much of their labor in groups, and home construction is no exception. At any
moment, the men who make up the ‘Chinancho,' a crew of expert weavers, are called upon to
help build the dwellings of the other members. Chinancho residents pick a leader known as
Murcha to oversee the entire building process, which takes two to eight weeks. Non-coopera-
tive members are kicked out of the group.

The term 'iota' refers to the traditional home division. It is divided into three sections: the
living quarters, the kitchen, and the ‘arkata', which serves as a livestock and grain storage
facility. The inside is separated into two sections: the ‘olico,' which is the people's living
area, and the ‘hadro,' which is the cattle's space. The ‘olico' is further split into two sleeping
areas: ‘holge,' for parents, and ‘bosalo,' for children and visitors. Production supplies and
other tiny objects are also stored in the ‘bosalo.'.

Wicker work makes up the inner divider dividing ‘holge' and ‘bosalo.' Upright poles as tall
as 1.7 m are inserted into the trench in close proximity to one another. The wicker work is
the next step. The vertical bamboo is woven onto the roof's lean horizontal bamboo strips at
the same time. Bamboo rope is used to bind the inner layer of the roof bamboo rafters and
intermediate sticks together in concentric rings. The half finished roof is then installed, with
the center pillar supporting it. No scaffolding is required since more vertical poles are
installed and fastened with sturdy twigs.
12
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

2.6 Culture of Sidama

2.6.1 Introuduction

The newely established Sidama region, have access to natural forest highland bamboo, but
majority of them traditionally practice private bamboo farming. The region is well known for
its rich coffee and fruit prouduction which are exported as a national level.

2.6.2 Language,Culture,Beliefs and Institutions

Sidama is a potentially rich nation impoverished by the culture of conquest and domination.
It prizes of relatively distinct language and cultural entity. The Sidama language, one of the
Cushitic languages, is spoken by most Sidamas.
Sidama’s holy places associated with the founders of major groups are known as akaako
darga. Some of these include Teellamo, Wonsho, Buunama, Aroosa, Hallo, Guushala, Beera,
Goida, Bansa Illaala, Saafa and Cirfa. Th e followers of Sidama traditional religion empha-
size that they do not worship Akaako, but a creator sky deity, Magano, who once lived on
earth, but returned to sky after people complained about having to make a choice between
reproduction and eternal life (Braukämper 1992:197, also Daye 2001). Since then, God is
approached through the brokerage of lower level deities. In other words, Akaako is the medi-
ator through whom the people approach the Supreme Being.

Sidama civilisation had extensive and sophisticated social and political structures prior to the
invasion. The people had created their cultural ethos via communal life, which included
sophisticated moral codes, rules, customs, and punishments, all of which had predictable
enforcement mechanisms. Sidama's gerontocratic social structure, according to John Hamer,
is built on a generational class system, which tends to assist the application of elderhood
authority. It includes a "group of specialized mediators who are heads of the main clans
(mote), generational classes (gadaana), and a few revered elderly men who have survived
two generations of the generational class structure (woma)" (Hamer 1996:526; 1994:128).

Age plays a significant role in this system. Old men and women, for example, are valued
members of the society since the distribution of work is based on age. Cimeesa, a ritual
leader chosen according to age, develops from elderly males, whereas qarricho emerges from
old women, also chosen according to age. Despite the fact that the community is mainly
patriarchal and women are not technically part of the luwa generational structure, they are
critical to its survival since they are responsible for family reproduction and the administra-
tion of much of the subsistence labor.Women do not participate directly in councils of elders,
but they are represented before the council by a spokesman of their choice, whenever having
grievance.

13
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

2.7 Cultural Institutions in Sidama

Three institutions dominate the Sidama political and cultural space. They are: (a) kingdom
(woma), (b) principality (mote) and (c) the Luwa systems.

2.7.1 Woma

In Sidama administration, the woma institution is the oldest kind of political institution. The
term "woma" refers to a wise person who plays a sophisticated role in production and organi-
zation. The woma rule over a council or songo (what Brgger equated to a senate) with great
power, where “the invisible hand of the market does not put pressure on the individual”
(Brgger 1986:108). The senate led by a woma is known as the womu-songo, or king's coun-
cil.

Woma's status in society differed from location to place and clan to clan. While a woma was
required in all areas of Sidama, much like a queen bee, the age and manner of electing him
differed from region to region. In most regions of Sidama, including Alata, where numerous
clans are ruled as federations, gerontocrats are chosen to the post of a woma from various
elements of society. The woma institution is dynastic and family in other locations, such as
Holoo and Sawolaa, and so inherited. In this scenario, when a woma dies, his son takes his
position, regardless of the latter's age.

2.7.2 Mote

Another type of authority relationship with a clearly political purpose is the mote institution.
Moticha is the name of the leader, and he is elected to the post of administration and leader-
ship based on his age and knowledge. After extensive discussions with members of many
local governments, he was elected. Mooticha is in charge of overseeing the national council,
which includes independent local council entities such as the ollaa songos. Members of the
songo are chosen from a group of "wise men," or hayoo, who are elected from various clans.
These counsellors are mostly, but not always, gerontocrats whose duty it is to advise the
songo, represent a person in a disagreement, take one's case or appeal to a higher-ranking
songo, or campaign for various causes. The councils are governed by customary law. Mem-
bers of the local council must know the law by heart, including the many types of crimes and
the appropriate penalty. While the most regular and straightforward activities were complet-
ed at the local level, the higher and more contentious topics or disagreements necessitated
the convening of the moote songo. In such situations, the mooticha resorts to halaale, and
those who utter a falsehood in front of his court are said to perish. Suspects are compelled to
confess the truth by their dread of death.

14
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

2.7.3 Luwa system

The Luwa system is a multi-generational institution that serves ceremonial, cultural, and
political functions. This institution resembles the Oromos' gada system in numerous ways.
The luwa is a generational "class" structure for societal organization. Each "class" is made up
of three groups of people: elders, initiates, and preinitiates, all of whom are tied in a
junior-senior connection throughout their lives. Brgger (1986) defined age-grades as a com-
promise between chronological age and generation.

Darrara, Moggisa, Hirbbora, Fullaasa, and Wawaasa are the five rotating age grades. Mem-
bers of various classes go through time cycles (every seventh year) during which their life
status changes. The Luwa gather at holy locations, generally campgrounds, where the initi-
ates dwell for two months, nourished by Luwa fathers, away from labor and sex. (Luwa dads
are cultural fathers who aren't always the initiates' biological fathers.) The initiation takes
place when an eight-person panel selects a leader gadaanna. Panel members conduct the
selection under strict secrecy. As a matter of principle, they assume no prior knowledge of
each other; neither should they have contact with the young man they choose.

Because of the luwa system's cyclical nature, all men will move from a young status of servi-
tude to senior positions of wealth and knowledge redistribution. The kids initially learn skills
by attending council sessions where elders make choices. The elders have a direct impact on
the youth, who are the productive forces and the foundation of wealth creation, due to an
inevitable sense of paternalism and trusteeship of the moral code.
All of this emphasizes the importance of elders, whose responsibilities include consultation,
decision-making, conflict resolution, social cohesion monitoring, and ensuring continuity in
the face of change. When it comes to conflict resolution and the elders' involvement, land
and property issues have traditionally taken up the majority of their time. The elders' power
to resolve disagreements and make policy is cemented by the use of curses and the supernat-
ural, which entails harsh punishments.

Figure 6. a) Elders gathering for conflict resolution b) Fichee-Chambalaalla, New Year festival of the Sidama people
cc:Klooster -FAO.

15
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

2.8. Cultural tourism in Sidama

This section highlights the region's significant cultural assets, which have been developed to
a degree so that they may be consumed by visitors in general and cultural tourists in particu-
lar. There includes a discussion of significant cultural attractions as well as tourists' percep-
tions of market preparedness. The survey and the narrative discussion that follows are based
on information from a promotional pamphlet produced by SCCTD (2017)

1.Fiche cambalala festival

fiche cambalala is a new year's festival that is one of Sidama's most intriguing holidays. It is
marked by a large feast and communal ceremonies since it commemorates the changing of
the nation's calendar. By exchanging meals in the hamlet, all members of the community
participate in washing away the old year. The event, which lasts roughly two weeks and
involves the creation and performance of traditional music, as well as dancing and chanting
on numerous market places, is thought to have been celebrated for over 2000 years (Ermias,
2015).
Fiche cambalala is frequently conducted on two levels: at home and in the community. At the
family level, there is a feast with neighbors and the beatification of girls, boys, and the elder-
ly with handcrafted jewels. Locals, led by the elderly known as cimeye, gather at Hawassa's
Gudumale Park to perform a thanksgiving ritual.

2.Sidama-Hanafa cultural tourist village

This tourist community is located around Yirgalem town, 325 kilometers south of Addis
Ababa, Ethiopia's capital. The village was established by the Sidama Communication, Cul-
ture, and Tourism Department for community-based tourism, and it includes particularly
built tourist amenities that help women, youth, and physically challenged people in the
region. The hamlet offers services such as Sidama cultural cuisine manufacturing and pro-
cessing, a traditional coffee ceremony, coffee collecting, village hiking, bird viewing, and hot
and cold mineral spring water.
The village, according to the government, offers guests active activities such as coffee col-
lecting, manufacturing, and serving, as well as water fetching from local streams. Tourists
can also participate in guided tours of surrounding towns (SCCTD,2017).
With a mean score of 3.77, the hamlet is one of the zone's tourism hotspots, and its market
ready status closely fits tourists' perceptions of a developed cultural tourist offering. This
supports the claim that in developing-country cultural attractions, goods that provide a col-
lective and one-stop experience frequently outperform those with single attraction resources
in terms of market attractiveness.

3.Countryside cultural resources

Traditional music and dance, cultural cuisine and drinks, and traditional clothing are all
included in this category of resources. Because product development and marketing are
typically linked, it appears that inadequate efforts made during the development stage are
limiting the amount and volume of marketing activity done in Sidama. Ermias (2015)

16
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

2.9 Contemporary Architecture

All practitioners of contemporary architecture have the desire and will to create and build
things that are distinct from what has been done in the past and what is typically done in the
present. It focuses on deviating from established procedures and ways of thinking.

2.9.1 Characteristics Of Contemporary Architecture

a) Unconventional Materials

Transformation, newness, and innovation are at the heart of modern architecture. In this
context, the novel refers to a desire to attempt something new, to explore materials, forms,
spaces, and experiences that have never been tried before. It usually encourages the use of
unusual building materials or industrial elements in a domestic setting.

By its very essence, contemporary architecture is unpredictable and innovative. More than
any other aesthetic characteristic, this style is driven by a desire to break free from conven-
tion, and one of the major ways it does so is by using unusual materials into the structure.

b) Form

All we have to do is glance around to realize that the straight line is the dominant line in
architecture. Contemporary architecture, on the other hand, attempts to avoid this approach
by favoring curved lines instead. In certain situations, a building's whole design is based on
curved lines. In certain situations, curved and straight lines are combined in the same struc-
ture. This architecture is characterized by the use of curved lines, softened edges, and a
departure from the straight line's supremacy. Its watchwords are pristine lines and simplicity.

c) Composition of Volumes

Curved lines also allow for the creation of areas that are not merely squares, as is the case
with straight lines. As a result, structures with circular spaces may be found in this style.
When it does utilize straight lines, which means the volume unit is a cube, it tries to put these
cubes together in unexpected ways to produce a unique volume composition. This composi-
tion, like rounded forms, enables for the construction of intriguing interior living spaces with
unique layouts.

d) Bright, Open Interiors

The quantity of natural light in contemporary dwellings is common. They, too, have an open
floor design, with few if any interior walls—or none at all. When these two components are
combined, the result is a house that is light, airy, and utterly soothing.

17
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

e) Harmony with Nature

The aim to establish harmony between structure and nature is a common theme in modern
architecture. The predominant use of big glass walls blurs the lines between interior and
outdoors, while overhanging roofs bring the architecture outside. Furthermore, contemporary
rooms are frequently built with gardening in mind. Contemporary rooms emphasize the
pleasure of magnificent natural surroundings by including decks, balconies, and terraces
from the start.

CHAPTER THREE

3. Case Study
3.1 Warka Village

Warka water project is a non-profit organisation led by Ar. Arturo Vittari that infuses local
knowledge, materials, ancient traditions and thoughtful designs.Warka village is developed
to transform the comprehensive human development, utilising low cost, locally sourced
material, community driver, high impact solutions tailored to the needs and sociocultural
expectations of the community.

Figure 10. a) top view of warka village,cameroon b) warka village under construction / cc:Warka Village
©warkawater.org

Warka Village is an integrated space for the Pygmy community, an isolated society located in
the Mvoumagomi area. Constructed using only natural materials and ancient local construc-
tion techniques.The Warka village is destined for the Pygmy community, a gathering of
villagers who live in groups of 30 people on average, 100 people at most. Deep in the tropi-
cal rainforest, this community is often cut off from nearby towns because of dangers from
flooding.

18
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

Using material like earth, water, stone, wood, and natural fibers, “the Warka village aspires
to transform the landscape of comprehensive human development, utilizing low-cost, sus-
tainable, community-driven, high-impact multi-sector development interventions that are
tailored to the village’s specific needs”. An example of how to live with nature, the village
encompasses different Warka interventions. It will generate 7 bamboo Warka houses, 2
Warka towers to collect around 40 to 80 liters every day of drinking water from the air, no
flushing Warka sanitation systems using composting toilets, a Warka garden to harvest food
and a Warka pavilion.

Figure 11. a) courtesy of warka water and village b) warka water tower / cc:Warka Village ©warkawater.org

3.2 Yuanheguan Village

The Party and Public Service Center of Yuanheguan Village was built out of the hope to
actively promote local business and improve the surrounding environment of the scenic area.
Originally, the plot served as a village committee office, and the new design aims to trans-
form the old plot into a B&B reception demonstration area. Furthermore, to guarantee
services for the villagers, it was essential to figure out how to build it in a short time.
It feature a contemporary remake of the traditional structure, while adopting Fuller’s philoso-
phy of sustainable construction.Building with Existing Foundation Designed by LUO studio

Figure 12. a) transformed Yuanheguan Village b) Yuanheguan Village interior

19
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

Interestingly, Buckminster Fuller’s principles of sustainability and his “more with less”
philosophy continue to be vastly predominant in today’s field of sustainable design, especial-
ly in vernacular architectural projects that involve heritage preservation and historical revi-
talization.

Figure 13. a) Yuanheguan Village with a pond b) Yuanheguan Village entrance

After carefully investigating on-site, LUO studio decided that although those concrete foun-
dation columns had been exposed for many years, the performance of the structure could still
meet the requirements for subsequent construction. From a prudent point of view, the design
team set several principles for the subsequent construction: avoiding damage or alteration to
the original structure, minimizing extra load increased by the upper new construction, and
effectively combining the forces of the new extension and the old construction.

Through this project, LUO studio hopes that the building can not only meet the working
needs of the village committee but also provide villagers with a more open and shared envi-
ronment where they can establish more intimate interpersonal and community relationships.

Building with a Revitalizing Canopy Designed by ZSZY Studio, Tongde Hall was construct-
ed with the commission to revive the former glory of the ancient ancestral halls, the “Emeer”
of the village. The finished project will crown the old structure again as a prominent land-
mark in the village.

During the design process, the architects and designers came up with an innovative
cable-suspended steel-timber frame system, with tall wood columns and a 965 square meter
glass roof structured to connect the two relics as one. 78 wood columns were utilized to form
a matrix integrated with a flexible but stable steel cable structure to protect the ancestral
halls. Together, they hold up a giant umbrella to save the relics from the rain.

The design contributed a solution to give rebirth to low-level historic relics in a limited time
and with limited cost. The strong contrast between the old volcanic stone walls and the new-
ly-built steel and wood tensile space structure represents the civilization collision of Hainan,
which is developing from a traditional island to an international free trade port.

20
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

3.3 Hebei, Pergola

Building with Abandoned Local Materials

Located at the foot of the north side of Taihang Mountains Longquanguan Town, Fuping
County, Hebei, Pergola in Luotuowan Village . Due to surrounding mountains, the villages
had poor transportation, which held back their economic development and caused an increas-
ing number of dilapidated houses.

Before the renovation, villagers were allowed to choose a traditional wooden roof or roof
made of cast-in-situ concrete for the house. The latter solution was more preferred by the
architects because it was easier to implement and most of the residents were middle-aged and
elderly people. During the village revamping process, a large number of wooden beams and
rafters were dismantled and left.

Previously, the wood waste had been used to make a fire for heating and cooking. But in
these days, to respond to the call for ecological environment protection and forest fire pre-
vention, the dismantled woods of various sizes were left unused.
Through reusing the old timber, the architects managed to save costs and improved efficien-
cy. They have also developed a modular construction for fast and easy on-site assembly.
Materials for construction units were designed as small as possible so that more wood waste
could be reused and the construction work could be carried out by villagers themselves.
wooden rod units were used to constitute the structural system, which enhances stability and
generates a larger space. The structure features grids that improve its performance in with-
standing forces of nature, hence ensuring greater safety for a long period of use.

Figure 14. a) Looking to the south entrance b) Aerial view of the road

21
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

3.4 Mountain House in Mist

Carried out by Shulin Architectural Design, Mountain House in Mist aims to initiate a bridge
between space and local villagers.One of the architect’s initial thoughts is to spare room for
the villagers, which also brings an intuitive feeling. On the first floor of the book house,
there is an overhead semi-outdoor open space, and ten structural columns hold the entire
house. The closed spaces are on the second floor, connected to the outside with an outdoor
staircase.here is only a tiny water bar on the first floor for water and beverages, the other
places are totally open for villagers to drink, chat, and for kids to play. The open space con-
nects all the possible activities.

On the outer façade, the relatively rare sun panels in the village make the whole house trans-
lucent, and the light in the room becomes gentle through the solar panels, creating a comfort-
able environment for reading. The translucent material allows readers inside to have a
glimpse of the outdoor landscape, achieving a semi-transparent spatial experience and atmo-
sphere.

Figure 15. a) Mountain House in Mist b) Villagers drinking tea and chatting on the top of the book house

3.5. Conclusions

Incrementally building on previous knowledge is the best way to concile traditional building
tecniques and contemporary needs for development. The case of Warka village and Yuan-
heguan Village shows us the different approach to express vernacular type of buildings.
because the former uses the same technique and material while the later used modern materi-
als so as to depict traditional values and ideas.

22
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

CHAPTER FOUR

4. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

4.1 Description of the Study Area

The Hawassa Zuria district (07° 01′ 54″ to 07° 50′ 36″ N and 38° 15′ 39″ to 38° 25′ 43″ E) is
located 290 km from Addis Ababa in the Sidama Regional State,bordering Tula town in the
east, Lake Hawassa in the north, the Oromia region in the west, and the Boricha district to
the south (Fig. 1). This district has a total population of 124,472, of whom 62,774 are men
and 61,698 women [7]. The altitudinal range is 1700 m to 1850 m.a.s.l. The annual mean
maximum and minimum temperatures are 30 °C and 17 °C, respectively, and the mean
annual rainfall is 1015 mm. The size of the district is 22,643 ha and the dry zone accounts for
75% [29] and consists of 23 kebeles (farmers’ associations).

Figure 16. a) Ethiopian map

b) map Showing Hawassa Zuria District c) map Showing Hawassa Zuria District

Map of Hawassa Zuria district, Sidama State, Southern Ethiopia. kebeles: (1) Dore Bafeno,
(2) Galo Argiso, (3) Jara Damowa, (4) Jaro Dado, (5) Lebu Korem, (6) Jara Hirnesa, (7)
Tenkaka Umbulo, (8) Doyo Otilcho, (9) Jara Gelalcha, (10) Jara Qerar

4.2 Data Collection

Compound pattern, construction materials, spatial organizations, and house design ideas
were the data sets needed for this study, and all of these data sets were collected using con
ventional methods (direct observation, recording photo and video, and drawing and sketch
ing) as well as other communication methods (interviews, questionnaires and group discus
sion). Taking notes from books, journals, thesis, articles, web sites, reports, and audios and
videos, as well as papers from governmental and non-governmental organizations, were
other important sources.

23
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

Table 1 Data collection and sources, tools and techniques and analysis based on the
objectives.
Specific Objectives Data collection Data Analysis

Techniques Tools

To explore the Observation, note taking, A4 Paper, Focus groups document analysis
compound patterns and Interviews, discussions digital analysis
houses

To identify the natural Observation, sketch photography,video document analysis

materials used for typical drawing analysis
vernacular houses.

To investigate traditional Observation, literature review sketch,photography, document analysis

construction techniques of sketching and
vernacular houses. drawing analysis

To investigate indigenous Focus group discussions, Sketch,refering different document analysis

house design concepts and interviews, observation sources sketching and
ideas. drawing analysis

To identify architectural Observation, note taking, Sketch,refering different document analysis

functions and spatial organi- Interviews, Focus groups sources digital analysis
zations discussions

In this study conventional means of data collection methods were also used, by using field
works through; (direct observation, photograph, drawing, and sketching). The field works
began on August 7, 2021, and in the selected study areas of Sidama communities. The field-
work is done in the two selected areas of Sidama regions: Mate tulla and Jara Damowa.

a) Direct Observation; as a young proffesional I used to observe my environment prior to the

study which helped me alot to visualize the natural context and cultural practices of my
society. my older sister facilitated the interviews and questioners that are essential for the
analysis.Observations on the field recorded in the form of photography, videos, drawing,
sketches and note-taking.

c) Photography; A number of photographs has been taken from the studies site. The
pictures would be grouped according to the relevant topics which shall be tackled. A digital
camera would be used in taking the pictures.

d) questioners; questioner were prepared to deepely understand the needs of the society and
the effect of urbanization on cultural trends.

24
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

4.2.1 Selection of Study Areas and Houses

Main factors for the selection of case areas

The selection of case areas is based on purposive selection method which includes personal
observation of the Sidama Vernacular Houses,proximity to the city centers, availability of
natural features and urbanization effect.

Two case areas were selected based on their proximity to the city of Hawassa and natural
features;Mate tulla and Jara Damowa.

Table 2 the selection summary of the case study areas and vernacular houses
Case areas Compound Total house Typology new buildings(korkoro bet)

Mate tulla 2 10 Sheeka,fengo, 2

Jara Damowa. 1 6 Sheeka,fengo, 3
sidancho

4.3. Techniques of Data Analysis

The data was evaluated descriptively and presented in images, drawings, maps, and tables, as
well as interpreted for interviews and focus group discussions using document analysis. It
was examined utilizing architectural software in both 2D and 3D. The data analysis was
carried out in accordance with the study goals. Which indicates that the data was evaluated
independently and jointly in both cases based on their closeness and similarity. After all, the
data were evaluated by providing essential descriptions for each and every one of them.
4.4. Structure of Documentation
Research question

Literature review Cases study

Cases I Cases II

Background study interview doc.

and pictures
maps and pic.
Analysis and interpretation

Findings and recommendation

Design proposal

diagram 2. Structure documentation

25
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

CHAPTER FIVE

ANALYSIS

5.1 Case One- Mate Tulla

The study area of Mate Tulla is one of the rural villages under the province of tulla sub city.
the area is seen as a clustered and dispersed settlement.The study was conducted in the south
eastern part of Hawassa.

Figure 17. b) Mate Tulla Google map

Enlarged mapping of the case location areas under cluster of
Case 2
Tulla.

Case 1

Figure 17. a) Google Map of Hawassa

1) Compound Residence
Life Story
Kalla Leko ledamo is one of the clan leaders of ‘banato’. He is a
‘motte’ to his village ‘Worancha’; aged 85 and married,with 11
childrens. His ‘qaae’ is located at the strategic hill side of Mate
village. Kalla Leko spend most of his time serving his communi-
ty as an elder to settle disputes and guide the village in local
traditions.
Picture 1.Kalla Leko Ledamo cc: Lidya
Kalla Leko Ledamo owns two houses, one with thached roof ‘Sheeka’ and an old House
built at the time of emperor Haileselasie. The compound contains two sidama vernacualr
houses: fengo and sheeka. His family works on farming and cattle rearing for living.The
historic ‘Korkoro’ house is inherited from his father as it is belieeved to be the modern
house in that time.

26
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

2) Compound Pattern and Houses

farm land
other village

Sketch 3. section of the village (Mate Tulla)

farm land

farm land

other village

Sketch 1. Village (worancho)

Picture 2. Aerial view of worancho village. cc: Lidya

Sketch 2. Sketch analysis of vernacular house in Kalla Leko ledamo

Picture 3. Neighbouring village viewed rom entry.
residential compound (Mate Tulla)
cc: Lidya
3)House Typology: type-1(sheeka House)

Sheeka

According to Masu yilas description, Sheeka vernacu-

lar houses have different type of forms interms of
there appearance. In these case the thached roof
extends towards the ground and the wall surfaces are
covered with a special type of grass called “Buyyo”.
Unlike other sheeka houses,these types have an over
hanged structure on the Entrance. However there
interior spaces and functions are the same.

Picture 4. Masu yila interviewed at the front of her

Sheka house. cc: Lidya

27
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

Interior space

Duko(Bed Room)

Hadiru(Livestock) Bosalo(Kitchen)
Picture 5. Sheeka house Bed room interior
and partition wall cc: Lidya

Living

sketch 4. Ground floor plan of Sheeka house

Picture 6. Sheeka house hadiru(livestock)

interior 2 cc: Lidya

Picture 7. Sheeka house Living room interior

cc: Lidya
sketch 5. Light and path way

Architectural Functions and Spatial Organizations

The Sheeka spaces are; living and dining (olicho), sleeping areas (Duko),kitchen (Bosalo) and
livestock (Hadiru). They live with the livestock in the ‘olicho’ so that the exhalation from
cattle increases the temperature of the rooms in cold nights.The spatial relationships between
spaces arranged based on the functional relationships and sequence with considering the
privacy and safety for the occupants and animals living with them. Decaying of materials,
insect attack and aging of the materials are the cons of such houses.Many agreed that
Modern houses are better than the traditional houses but they still prefer the traditional
houses for living purpose because it is more flexiable than modern ‘korkoro bet’.

28
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

3)House Typology- Type 2(Fengo)

Fengo

The form and structure of Fengo house typology is

mainly the result of the material used. Onion shape and
circular plan are created through flexibility of the
bamboo plant. special treatment is given to lighting and
entrance emphasis. unlike other types of vernacular Picture 8. a)Fengo House cc: Lidya
houses fengo is more developed interms of space relation
and material approach. Eventhough most of such houses
are constructed in high land areas,nowadays they are
being constructed in different climatic zones. Its influ-
ence can be seen in different lodges and recrational
resorts.

Interior space Picture 8. b) kids sitting in front of Fengo

House cc: Lidya
Fengo vernacular house seems similar to other traditional houses interms of spaial arrangen-
ment yet it is highly articulated and decorated than any of them. It has 3 parts: the residential,
the cooking space,and the ‘Arkata’ for a cattle and crop store. The interior is accessed
through a porch and it’s divided into ‘olico’, living area of the people, and ‘hadro,’ space for
cattle. The ‘olico’ is further divided into ‘holge’, parent’s sleeping area, and ‘bosalo’, sleep-
ing area for children and guests. The ‘bosalo’ is also used for storing production
materials and other small items.

The interior partition separating ‘holge’ and ‘bosalo’ is made of wicker work. Upright poles
of as tall as 1.7 m are stuck into the trench fairly close to each other. The next stage is the
wicker work. The vertical bamboo is woven onto lean horizontal bamboo strips the roof is
made simultaneously. The inner layer of the roof bamboo rafters and intermediate sticks are
tied together in concentric circles using bamboo rope. The partially completed roof is then
put in place supported by the central post. More vertical posts are added and tied with strong
twigs and no scaffolding is necessary.

Picture 9. Fengo House interior cc: Eiabc

29
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

3)House Typology- Type 3(Korkoro bet)

The Sidama elders were describing about several
vernacular housing characters, located in ‘alicho’
‘hawela’ and different regions.
they come across these house and starteed to
describe its special qualities and historical
essence. the house aged more than 85 years.

Kalla Leko Ledamo described the building as an

elegant which serves to host several communal
events at the time of sera and hamuse.moreover it
influenced the surrounding neighbourhoods
interms of constructing similar houseing styles.
Figure 10. front view of Korkoro bet cc lidya
It was unusual to the community observing such
an open floor that gets more light than the tradi-
tional vernacular houses.

Interior Space

Bed room 1

Living area

Bed room 2
Figure 10. Interior view of Korkoro bet cc lidya
Verenda

sketch 5. Ground floor plan of Korkoro bet

Architectural Functions and Spatial Organizations

These modern house has an open floor plan accessed at diferent directions, the quanity of light
is suffucuent compared to other vernacular houses. the floor is covered with timber floor
mat.The living room takes much of the space whereas the bed rooms and kitchen are suited at
opposite sides of the living area.

30
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

5.2. Case Two - Jara Damowa

Figure 18. Jara Damowa Google map.Enlarged mapping of the sketch 6. Jara Damowa mapping of the location
location area. area.

5.2.1. Compound Residence

Life Story
Kalla sadee mana is one of the clan leaders of ‘saaolla’. He is a ‘motte’
to his village ‘Jara Qerar’; aged 102 and married,with 11 family mem
bers. His ‘qaae’ is located at the hill side of Jara. Kalla sadee spend
most of his time serving his community as an elder to settle disputes
and guide the village in local traditions.

Pic11.a) Motte sadee mana

Life Story
Kalla gabisso basshee is the second leader of the clan ‘saaolla’.He is a
‘motte’ to his village ‘Jara Hirnesa’; aged 96 and married,with 14
family members. His ‘qaae’ is located around Hawassa lake.As an
elderly man his daily activities are busy in mediating societal issues
and gathering his community for special events.

Pic11.b) Motte gabisso basshee

Life Story

Kalla Legesse yachiso is one of the clan leaders of ‘saaolla’. He is a

‘motte’ to his village ‘Damowa’; aged 98 and married,with 12 family
members. His ‘qaae’ is located at the shore of Hawassa lake. Kalla
Legesse spend most of his time serving his community as an elder to
settle disputes and guide the village in local traditions. He lives in a
fengo house.

Pic11.c) Motte Legesse yachiso

31
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

5.2.2. Compound Pattern and Houses

Hawassa Lake

Lake shore

farm land

other village

farm land farm land

sketch 7. Jara mapping of the location area. Sketch 8. site plan of Jara Damowa

Pic12.a) open compound in jara damwa

Sketch 9. site section (Jara Damowa )

Observation
the site is parceled with an organic shape following the
landscape. The society spents most of their time around
the lake fetching water,washing and discussing around the
shores. The site has interesting lake view.
Pic12.b) aerial view of gabissos house

Pic12.c) Panaroma view of the village Pic12.d) elders interview cc: Lidya
32
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

Interior space(Livestock and cooking)

store

Hadiru(Livestock)
Bosalo(Kitchen)

Picture 13.a) Sheeka house in Jara cc: Lidya

sketch 10. Ground floor plan of Sheeka house(livestock and store)

toilet
Bosalo(Kitchen)

sketch 11. separately constructed kitchen and toilet

Architectural Functions and Spatial Organizations

Picture 13 b). Sheeka house jara cc: Lidya
Similar to Mate tulla typologies,Jara distict is endowed
with natural resources including the near by lake Hawas-
sa. The area is mostly dominated by sheeka vernacular
houses because of the availability of material in the
region. the spatial layout is slightly unique to that of case
I(mate tulla) interms of additional spaces for different
activities. The bosalo(Kitchen) and livestock area are
constructed outside of the main living room. it’s because
of the influence of modern houses.They live in the kor-
koro bet while the use the gojjo for external functions.

Picture 13 c). Sheeka house interior for

livestock jara cc: Lidya

33
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

CHAPTER SIX

6. DISCUSSION

6.1 Discussion on the existing data

The impact of vernacular architecture in empowering skill and knowledge to the current
needs of sustainable design is enormous. We have to incrementally build on the knowledge
of the past rather than demolishing or borrrowing other forms of housing styles that are
contrary to there context.

6.2 Discussion Participants

Clan Leaders

Motte Gabisso Basshee Motte Sadee Mana Motte Legesse Yachiso

Village Residence

Kalla Abrham Shebela Kalla Tesfaye Damasha Kalla Shumaro Shutale Kalla Nigusse Eddaa Kalla Mirga Letemo

Kalla Mathewos Damasha Kalla Kassa Dido Kalla Hanfere Legesse Kalla Chelota Denasha

34
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

6.3 Summary of Focus Group Discussion

The focus group discussion carried out by elders with over 10 participants.Motte Sadee
Mana, a clan leader led the discussion.The topics include vernacular housing characters in
Sidama, their problems, the impact of urbanization, the needs for transformation, form of the
building and the symbolic meanings of the vernacular houses.

Picture 14 a). Focus group Discussion mate tulla Picture 14 b). Family Interviewed Picture 14 c). Focus group Discussion
Jara Damewa
6.4. Observation

As a young proffesional, I closely observed the needs of my society and the gradual change
of cultural practices that hampered the societal norms and standard.The elders stressed on the
issue of transformation;stating the rapid population growth and land scarcity as the major
cause for advanced building strategies.

eventhough the modern houses(kokoro bet) have solved some of the currrent needs of the
society, they still have many drawbacks interms of representing the culture,the interior
spaces are warmer in the day time and their high value to construct.

Motte Sadee Mana,the clan leader, expressed his deepest concern about the gradual loose of
the older norms.Most cultural customs have been abandoned by the gradual effect of global-
ization and urban effect. He noted that the needs of having cultural centers in different villag-
es of the clan.

6.5 Main issues raised by focus discussions:

1. Lack of Cultural Value; The curent generation tend to unrestraint the habits of his ances-
tors. the total scrap of follwing one’s own identity will continiously havoc cultural value and
transform the villages to alien type of lifestyle.

2. Social Needs; The Elders of the clan described the draw backs of the vernacular houses in
line to the current developing needs of the society. The lack of integrated spaces led some of
the residence to construct the modern house(korkoro bet).

35
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

6.6 Reasons for disappearance of vernacular architecture

The Sidama vernacular Architecture implies a complete comitment to the ideas that are being
expressed based on assumptions and values being transformed in to physical objects.Some of
the reasons that cause the decline in constructing of vernacular houses are:

1. Population growth and land scarcity

maximizing of financial worth for property value is the major issue we're facing in urbaniza-
tion.Additionaly population growth plays a critical role in looking for better buildings that
can accomodiate human needs.

2. Urbanization;

Rapid urbanization and mass housing make the sum total effect of abandoning old way of
construction.Globalization on the other hand opened a large scale of cultural integrity where
context has no longer be the issue in detecting way of life.

3. Shortage of local materials;

Global warming and deforestation has become the root cause to the shortage of locally avail-
able materials.For instance,a grass used as a thach for the roof cover, named ‘Buyyo’ has
been degraded by these effect.

4. Termite attack, decay and fire;

Termites regularly attacked and badly destroyed the bottom portions of traditional homes.
The severity of termite infestations was influenced by previous land usage and the age of
traditional dwellings. Local residents took a number of steps to prevent termite infestations
on cultural structures. House smoking consists of dried grasses, paddy stems, dry leaves, dry
bamboo leaves, rice husk, and a little quantity of green leaves and branches. For 2-3 days,
the smoking is done under supervision.

5. Misunderstanding of the term Civilization;

The term "civilization" encompasses both a process and a destination. It depicts the transition
of a social collective from a state of nature. It refers to a period in human history character-
ised by substantial urbanization, social and professional stratification, and concomitant
advances in the arts and sciences.Neverthless some local people consider their traditional
houses as outdated.

36
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

CHAPTER SEVEN

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

7.1 Conclusions

The term Vernacular refers to a home that has been built without the assistance of a profes-
sional architect. They are "buildings of the people, by the people, but not for the people,"
"accommodating the values, economics, and ways of life of the cultures that generate them,"
and "accommodating the cultures' values, economies, and ways of life." Vernacular architec-
ture refers to the sorts of structures created by people in tribal, folk, peasant, and popular
communities without the need of an architect or a specialized designer. Vernacular architec-
ture arose through millennia of human experience in many climates around the world.

The pyramids in Egypt, 11 rock-hewn churches in Lalibela, and the Axum obelisk in Ethio-
pia, for example, all communicate a distinct picture. This is referred to as "genius loci," or
the "spirit of a place." Local customs have been passed down through the generations to
create vernacular architecture. However, in most (if not all) cases, it is being phased out in
favor of western materials and procedures..

Gebremedhin (1971) categorized Ethiopian vernacular housing into four groups based on
wall types: timber construction with soil and fibers infill (chikka), load-bearing stone mason-
ry walls with earthen mortar, bamboo and thatch walls, and wood and matting houses. The
bamboo and thatch walls are common in southern Ethiopia, particularly in Gamo and
Sidama. The Sidama areas are well-known for their bamboo weaving methods. The materi-
als, techniques, space organization, and shapes of these vernacular homes varied from place
to location, depending on the use of the materials, methods, and forms of the house.
The topological arrangement of the dwellings is always the same, but the details differ from
one building to the next. The homes all had similar plan layouts and were built with locally
accessible resources and indigenous expertise. Sheeka, Fengo, and Sidancho are three forms
of Sidama vernacular houses. These types of houses arose as a result of climate variations,
social value, and the resources available in their surrounding community.

Despite the recent influence of modernity in terms of designs, materials, and building meth-
ods, these paper suggests that experts, designers, and researchers should be conscious of
users' social-cultural and religious views. The study process has resulted in the following
concluding observations about the Sidama vernacular architecture:

a) Socio-Cultural

The natural and climatic factors are highly interwoven with religious or spiritual convictions,
and the vernacular structures are deeply linked to the ancestors and the social community,
ritual and symbolism.

37
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

b) Ecological

The geography, temperature, culture, and material use all have a role in the shape and con-
struction of the Sidama home.Nature is linked to family names and identities.As a result, it is
beleived that it never hurt them.

c)Architectural

The buildings are situated on a plateau surrounded by hills, and the location is generally near
to a water supply. Construction is taking place on non-fertile ground.The shape of the build-
ing varies depending on the weather Due of the severe heat, fewer openings are provided.
In all seasons, the bamboo fiber provides the best interior thermal properties.The communal
space is at the heart of a circular settlement design.Bamboo was used almost exclusively in
the construction of this structure.

The roof is designed in the shape of a magnificent dome or dome-like shape, with a triple
layer of bamboo splits and ropes for structural support, as well as culm sheaths for insulation
and weather protection. On the outside, a woven basket-style cover binds everything together
and protects the house from the elements.Bamboo matts are used to adorn the interior walls
and doors. And they are organic in nature, building materials sourced from the immediate
environment do not produce waste during or after usage.

d)Economic

Farmers and partial-pastorials make up the majority of the population, and they rely on their
farmland to sustain their families. Coffee, maize, and other crops are planted. Bamboo har-
vesting also contributes to the household's revenue.

7.2 drawbacks and solutions which are adapted in Sidama Vernacular houses

Termites, dampness, rodents, and insects are the most common natural causes of vernacular
building degradation. Termites have the most destructive effect on the structural failures of
wooden posts and supporting structures that function as significant structural components of
the building. Anthropogenic problems refer to a wide range of harms and degradation caused
by human migrations, incense burning, and other activities. On vernacular houses, there are
several sorts of problems. These defects can occur during or after construction.These issues
were resolved by custom society's mechanisms.They pay attention to little shading by cover-
ing a specific area, and if the drop covers a large area, they re-cover the entire body.

38
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

7.3 Recommendations

a) Residence and local inhabitants:

Long years ago, the Sidama people were isolated to mountainous locations in order to pre-
serve their culture and distinctive dwelling practices. However, owing to overharvesting of
resources, a shortage of locally accessible materials, and the rise of urbanizations, the ver-
nacular house of Sidama is unquestionably considered obsolete.As a result, before these
vernacular houses completely vanish, there must be a means to grow new material species by
teaching the local people on how to benefit from the tourism business. Locals must also have
established habits of documenting physical cultural activities used to construct ecosystems.

b) The Government:

The disappearing of Sidama vernacular architecture needs the government attentions before
vanishing from the areas. Therefore, the following remedies have to be taken immediately to
stop the vanishing of the houses and make the site a tourist destination.

• Establish an institution which will study and develop the sidama vernacular houses
• Construct a transformed Cultural villages that are adopted from vernacular houses to attract
tourists.
• Create awareness among people of the highlands and lowlands of the site's importance to
the citizens and the country so that the dwellings can be preserved.
• To attract both local and international tourists to the area, promote Sidama houses through
local and worldwide media.
• Create awareness to stop the increasing construction of modern houses such as iron
corrugated sheet house (korkoro bet) and HCB which strongly affects the houses.
• Reviving cultural customs by forming an all inclusive associations

39
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

REFERENCES

Mehari, (2017) vernacular architecture of Argoba

Garedew, ( 2015) transformation of Konso vernacular houses
Teku, ( 2017) Characteristics and Transformation of Gurage House and Settlement
Eleni, (2018) Documenting the disappearing traditional ‘elfign’ and its settlement, in
the North Shawa
Yalew, (2013) Transformation of vernacular house, compound and settlement of Gurage,
Detailed shelter response profile; Ethiopia; Local Building Cultures for sustainable and
resilient habitats by Enrique, (2018).
Documenting and Conserving the Disappearing of typical Gamo highland vernacular
Architecture by Ashenafi Ezo
sidama_tourism_article_49_vol_9_1__2020_ethiopia
The_Sidama_Nation_An_Introduction
https://www.archdaily.com/946669/warka-water-and-arturo-vittori-create-integrated-village
-for-the-rainforest-community-in-cameroon
Source: Living Stone Mukasa
https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/what-is-contemporary-architecture.html
https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/architectural-styles/a2423-characteristics-of-
contemporary-architecture/

40
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

Appendex I
Part 1 General questions

Name______________________________ Age _______ Adress_______________

1) Family Information: Tribe____________clan___________Village name__________

House typolgy________________ Head of family______________________________
No of family_________________

2) Household Activities/based on seasons

Labor division:
a) father______________________________
b) mother______________________________
c) children
1. Male______________________________
2. female______________________________
d) Extended family______________________________

3) Domestic animals:

no. type number spatial position/living area

Part 2 Social information

1) types of social activities practiced in the village(yemahberawi dirgetoch)?

a) ______________________________
b)______________________________
c)______________________________
d)______________________________

2) social activities and their transformation(yetqeyeru mahberawi bahiloch)?

____________________________________________________________

Part 3 cultural information

a) cultural activities
1. ritual/religious cermony_______________place/bota_________________________
2. Event______________________________place______________________________
3. other______________________________
b) religion______________________________

41
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

Part 4 Settlement pattern

1) Where did the occupant live before?

a) The same settlement____________ how long?______________

b) Other settlement if other specify________________________

If they lived in other settlement, write the reason
of change? ________________

2) How was this house got?

a) Inherited it from father, b) Bought it from somebody

Part 5 Economic information

1) income generation mechanisms

a) Agriculture_________________ what kind of crop?_________________

b) merchant_________________
c) help from children in town_________________
d) other source of income _________________

2) monthly expenditure
a) food stuff/purchased_________________
b) kind of mill/food for:
1. breakfast_________________
2. lunch_________________

Part 6 Spatial data

A) type of house unit they have and the reasons behind?

1. vernacular(sheeka,fengo,sidancho)
2. modern(korkoro bet)
3. both

b) How many units are there in a compound?

1. sheeka a. one b. two c. three d. four e.none

2. fengo a. one b. two c. three d. four e.none
3. sidancho a. one b. two c. three d. four e.none
4. modern/korkoro bet a. one b. two c. three d. four e.none

42
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

c) space organization of each units?

1. sheeka
how many rooms do it have?_________________
name and purpose of each room?
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________

2. fengo
how many rooms do it have?_________________
name and purpose of each room?
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________

3. sidancho
how many rooms do it have?_________________
name and purpose of each room?
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________

4. modern/korkoro bet
how many rooms do it have?_________________
name and purpose of each room?
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________
name_________________ purpose_________________size_________________

43
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

d) what is the average size of a compound?

1.how did they decide the size?______________________________
2. who is responsible for plot division______________________________

e) daily activities based on spatial usage and time? ordinary/weekends/event/sea-

sonal

1. morning

2. afternoon

3. evening

4. night

f) did the space/room transformed from its original function? unit,compound and
village level?
1. if no why?______________________________
2. if yes how and why?______________________________

g) which type of the house unit is comfortable? favor-

ite________________________
why?______________________________

h) does the room incorporate proper:

1. light?
2. ventilation?
3. sanitation?
4. water supply?
if no why?______________________________

i) how does the position of a specific space/room decided?

44
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

Part 7 Construction materials

1.What about the availability of materials now and Which type of material did he/she
use?
a) Locally available
b) Available with difficulties
c) Very difficult to get
d) Other specify________________

2.Locally available material lists, locations & distance in km

1. _______________, _______________& _________
2. ________________, _________________& ______

3.Where did they got the construction materials?

a) From the compound sites
b) From a distant far
c) Other specify________________

4.What was the nature of getting the materials?

a) By Free
b) Buying
c) Other specify________________

5.Did he/she treat materials? Yes, No If yes, why did he/she treat the material?
a) To fight insects attack

Part 8 Construction techniques

1.Who did build this house?

a) The owner
b) The Artisan
c) In a group,
d) Other specify________________
If the answer is ‘In a group’, and How many
peoples participated?________________

2.How much time got to finish the house construction?

a) For material preparation_________________
b) construction_________________
c) Finishing___________________

3.How much money paid to build the house? __________________________

a) For Labor
b) For materials
c) If others, specify

45
 Transformation of Sidama Vernacular Houses 2021

3.Are you comfortable with the sidama house(sheeka,sidancho,fengo)?

If yes, why? ________________
if no, why?________________
Part 9 Forms and functions

1.Have he/ she changed anything on the house? Yes………..., No………...

If yes, what type of changes did he/ she execute?

a) Changed the spaces

b) Walls/Roof, Windows, and doors
c) Other specify_______________

2.What prompted/cause such changes?

a) Aging of materials
b) Changing the style
c) Other specify________________

3. Have you always understood the modern house is better than vernacular/traditional?
Yes________________
No________________
If yes, why?________________
a) To improve life standard
b) Modern houses are good
c) Other specify________________
If no, why?
a) No money to do so
b) No interest to do so
c) Other specify____________________

4.What does he/she consider a modern house?

a) A house out of HCB
b) A burnt clay bricks house, stone
c) If it is roofed by iron sheets
d) Other specify_______________

5.What is good with his/her present house?

a) Form
b) Spaces
c) Materials
d) Other specify______________
6.do they love to see a transformation of sidama house? _______________________
if no why?______________________

7. what is modernity and modern house?

______________________________________________
46