ELECTIVE -I

PRESENTED BY :
SIMRAN SUNILKUMAR
1WS23AT003
III SEMESTER
EAST WEST SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE
Vernacular
Architecture: The Art
of Building with Local
Resources
Vernacular architecture is the indigenous building style that
emerges naturally from a region's local climate, available
materials, and cultural traditions. It represents a sustainable and
authentic approach to construction, rooted in the unique character
of each community.
 What is Vernacular
Architecture?

1 Community-Driven 2 Environmentally
Responsive
Vernacular architecture is
shaped by the needs and Vernacular buildings are
resources of the local designed to optimize
people, not top-down comfort and efficiency
designs. based on the climate.

3 Timeless Traditions
Building techniques and styles are passed down through
generations, evolving organically over time.
 The Principles of Vernacular Design

Site Integration Passive Cooling Locally Sourced

Vernacular architecture seamlessly Clever use of natural ventilation,

Construction materials are
blends with the surrounding shading, and thermal mass to
harvested or extracted from the
landscape and environment. regulate indoor temperatures.
immediate area.
Adapting to the Local
Climate and
Environment
Hot & Arid Climates
1
Thick adobe walls, small windows, and shaded
courtyards offer passive cooling.

2 Cold & Snowy Regions

Insulating materials like thatch, stone, and wood trap
heat for warmth.

3 Tropical Rainforests
Elevated, open-air structures optimize natural
ventilation and shading.
The Evolution of
Vernacular Architecture
Traditional
A "traditional vernacular house" refers to a house built using the design principles and materials specific to a partic
passed down through generations, with no modern modifications

Transitional

A "transitional vernacular house" incorporates elements of traditional vernacular design

while integrating some modern materials and technologies

Contemporary
a "contemporary vernacular house" takes inspiration from traditional vernacular architecture but utilizes
advanced materials and design techniques to create a modern structure while still respecting local context
and sustainability principles
The Sustainability of
Vernacular
Architecture
Environmentally FriendlyCultural Preservation
Vernacular buildings use Maintaining traditional
locally sourced, sustainable building practices helps
materials with minimal safeguard indigenous
energy needs. knowledge and identity.

Community Resilience
Vernacular architecture is adaptive and durable, enabling
communities to withstand challenges.
KASHMIR’S VERNACULAR
ARCHITECTURE

Kashmir's vernacular architecture is a beautiful blend of tradition,

climate adaptation, and cultural influences. It's characterized by its
unique construction techniques and stunning aesthetics, reflecting the
region's rich history and diverse cultural heritage.
The Kashmir region lies between latitudes 32° and 36° N, and longitudes 74° and 80° E.

GEOGRAPHY
It has an area of 68,000 sq mi (180,000 km2 ).

It is bordered to the north and east by China (Xinjiang and Tibet), to the northwest by Afghanistan
(Wakhan Corridor), to the west by Pakistan (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab) and to the south by India
(Himachal Pradesh and Punjab).

The topography of Kashmir is mostly mountainous. It is traversed mainly by the Western Himalayas.

Kashmir is traversed by three rivers namely Indus, Jhelum and Chenab. These river basins divide the
region into three valleys separated by high mountain ranges.
CLIMATE •Ideal for Sightseeing: This is an excellent
time to explore the valley and enjoy outdoor
activities like trekking and hiking.
Winter (November to February):
•Rising Temperatures: As spring progresses,
Cold and Snowy: This is the peak winter season, with temperatures start to rise, making it
temperatures often dipping below freezing point. comfortable for outdoor activities.
Heavy Snowfall: The higher reaches, like Gulmarg
and Sonmarg, receive heavy snowfall, transforming the
landscape into a winter wonderland. Summer (June to August):

Pleasant Valley: The Kashmir Valley, particularly Mild Summers: Unlike other parts of India,
Srinagar, experiences a milder winter with occasional Kashmir experiences mild summers.
snowfall.
Pleasant Temperatures: Daytime
Spring (March to May):
temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C, making
it comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor
•Pleasant Weather: Spring brings pleasant weather activities.
with blooming flowers and lush greenery.
Occasional Rain: The monsoon season brings
occasional rain showers, which add to the
beauty of the landscape.
Local Materials in Kashmir
Abundant Timber
Insulating Clay
The region's extensive forests provide
Sun-dried clay bricks and mud plaster
a reliable source of high-quality timber
offer excellent thermal insulation,
for construction, including sturdy cedar
helping to regulate indoor
and pine.
temperatures.

Durable Stone
Flexible Willow
Locally quarried stone, such as
Willow branches are woven into intricate lattice
limestone and sandstone, is used for
patterns, providing structural support and
foundations, walls, and other structural
ventilation.
elements.
Architectural Elements in Kashmiri
Vernacular Houses

Sloping Roofs
The steeply pitched roofs, often covered in wooden shingles or slate, are designed to
efficiently shed heavy snowfall.

Intricate Windows

Kashmiri houses feature elaborately carved wooden windows that not only provide
ventilation but also add to the aesthetic appeal.

Wooden Balconies
Projecting wooden balconies, known as "dorjes," offer shade, ventilation, and additional
living space.
Geometric Patterns in
Kashmiri Vernacular
Houses
1 Symbolic Significance 2 Structural Integrity
The geometric patterns in Many of these patterns are
Kashmiri vernacular not just decorative, but
architecture often hold also serve to reinforce the
deep cultural and religious structural stability of the
significance, reflecting the buildings.
region's rich heritage.

3 Aesthetic Appeal
The intricate designs add a visually stunning and harmonious
element to the traditional Kashmiri houses.
Construction Techniques in
Kashmiri Vernacular
Architecture
1 Timber Framing
The structural frame of Kashmiri houses is typically built using
interlocking wooden beams and posts, providing strength and
flexibility.

2 Mud Masonry
Sun-dried mud bricks and stone are used to construct the walls,
which are then plastered with a mud-based mixture for insulation
and protection.

3 Willow Weaving
Intricate willow lattices are incorporated into the walls and ceilings,
enhancing ventilation and offering additional structural support.
Thermal Comfort in
Kashmiri Vernacular
Architecture
Insulation
The thick mud walls and wooden frames provide excellent
thermal insulation, helping to regulate indoor temperatures.

Ventilation
Strategically placed windows, doors, and willow lattices allow
for natural cross-ventilation, promoting airflow and cooling.

Thermal Mass
The heavy, dense materials used in construction, such as
stone and mud, help to absorb and retain heat, maintaining a
comfortable indoor climate.
Vernacular Architecture
in
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu, a southern state of India, is renowned for its rich
architectural heritage, where traditional vernacular styles have been
preserved and continue to influence modern building practices. This
section delves into the unique geographical, material, and climatic
factors that have shaped the region's distinctive architectural identity.
Geographical Influences

Coastal Regions Inland Plains Hilly Regions

The coastal areas of Tamil Nadu are
The inland plains experience a more The hilly regions of Tamil Nadu call
characterized by a hot and humid
moderate climate, allowing for the for adaptations to the steep terrain,
climate, influencing the use of
use of more substantial building with buildings designed to blend
lightweight, well-ventilated building
materials and more complex seamlessly with the natural
materials and designs to promote
architectural elements. landscape.
natural cooling.
Climatic Conditions and Thermal Comfort

Hot and Humid Climate Seasonal Variations

Tamil Nadu experiences a hot and humid climate, with The region has distinct seasons, including a warm summer, a
temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C throughout the year. moderate winter, and a monsoon season, each requiring specific
architectural adaptations.

Thermal Comfort Passive Cooling

Vernacular architecture in Tamil Nadu is designed to promote The use of materials like mud and thatch, as well as building
natural ventilation and cooling, utilizing techniques like orientation and shading, contribute to the overall thermal
courtyards, verandahs, and strategic window placement. comfort of traditional Tamil Nadu homes.
Traditional Building Materials
1 Stone
The abundant availability of stone in the region has led to the
widespread use of this durable material in the construction of
walls, foundations, and structural elements.

2 Mud
Mud, obtained from the region's fertile soil, is a versatile
material used for wall construction, plasterwork, and even
roofing in some cases.

3 Thatched Roofs
The use of locally sourced materials, such as palm leaves and
grasses, for roofing has resulted in the iconic thatched roofs
that are a hallmark of Tamil Nadu's vernacular architecture.
Architectural Elements

Carved Columns Decorative Beams

Ornately carved stone columns, Wooden beams and rafters are
often featuring intricate designs, are frequently adorned with intricate
a defining feature of Tamil Nadu's carvings and patterns, adding visual
vernacular architecture. interest to the building's interior.

Decorative Tiles Large Windows

The use of colorful, patterned tiles, Strategically placed large windows
both for roofing and floor coverings, and openings allow for natural
is a distinctive element of Tamil ventilation and cooling, enhancing
Nadu's vernacular architecture. the overall thermal comfort of the
spaces.
GEOMETRIC PATTERNS
Hendecagon
A three-dimensional polyhedron with 11 sides that combines
engineering and sacred geometry. The tiling pattern in the
main arena reflects the mathematical looping system of the
hendecagon.
Chettinad houses
These houses feature intricate wooden carvings, floral wall
plastering, and carved pillars. They also incorporate imported
materials like Burmese teak and marble tile work.
Nalu Kettu houses
These traditional homes have an open space in the center
that serves as a communal space and source of ventilation.
Thermal Comfort Strategies

Courtyards
The incorporation of central courtyards allows for natural
cross-ventilation and the creation of shaded, cooler
spaces within the home.

Verandahs
Shaded verandahs and overhanging roofs provide
protection from the sun and help to maintain a
comfortable interior temperature.

Window Placement
Strategic positioning of windows and openings facilitates
the flow of air, enhancing natural cooling and ventilation
throughout the space.
THANK YOU