Vernacular architecture

Vernacular architecture is architecture for the local needs using local materials and construction techniques expressing culture and local traditions. The aim of the course is to study the various vernacular architecture forms in the various regions of India.

The objectives of the course are, to provide an overview of vernacular architecture of India and to study the various approaches and concepts in the study of vernacular architecture, to study how the vernacular architectural forms are dictated by geography, climate and socio cultural factors.

The outcome of the course will help the participants to understand how the contexts of a region have an impact on vernacular architectural forms. The participants will be exposed to various traditional materials and construction techniques used in vernacular architectural forms.

The course will help the participants acquire knowledge on traditional materials and construction techniques which can be used in the design of built spaces in the modern context. By understanding the impact of context of a region over architectural forms and expressions will lead to sensible and context specific and sensitive design solutions.

Students of Architecture, Civil Engineering, Interior design, Anthropology, cultural studies, Sociology, Archaeology, Ethnic studies, Heritage studies and conservation and any design stream will be benefited from this course. Professionals in all the above streams may also be benefited.

COURSE LAYOUT

WEEK 1:
Definition and Classification of Vernacular Architecture. Vernacular architecture as a process – Survey and Methods of study of vernacular architecture. Cultural and contextual responsiveness of vernacular architecture: an overview.


WEEK 2:
Different approaches and concepts to the study of vernacular architecture: an over view – Aesthetic, Architectural and anthropological studies in detail.

WEEK 3 :
Forms spatial planning, cultural aspects, symbolism, colour, art, materials of construction and construction technique of the vernacular architecture - Havelis of Rajasthan

WEEK 4 :
Forms spatial planning, cultural aspects, symbolism, colour, art, materials of construction and construction technique of the vernacular architecture in the cases of Deserts of Kutch and Havelis of Bohra Muslims. House boats of Kashmir.

WEEK 5 :
Forms, spatial planning, cultural aspects, symbolism, art, colour, materials of construction and construction technique- Kerala: Houses of the Nairs and Namboothris. Koothambalam, and Padmanabhapuram Palace.

WEEK 6 :
Forms, spatial planning, cultural aspects, symbolism, art, colour, materials of construction and construction technique - Chettinadu Houses and Agraharams.

WEEK 7 :
Colonial influences on the Traditional Goan houses - Evolution of the Bungalow from the traditional bangla, Settlement pattern and house typologies in Pondicherry.

WEEK 8 :
Victoria Villas – Planning principles and materials and methods of construction - Cochin.