An Exploration of Vernacular Architecture
- Andrew Goodwin
- Apr 9
- 3 min read
Vernacular architecture can be defined as built structures that respond to their local environmental context and local traditions. It is not a specific style but is rather a broad typology of architecture that exists and has existed all over the world during all time periods that incorporates wisdom of communities that have been in a specific region for hundreds of years. It’s inherently sustainable, celebrates local culture, and often stems from knowledge passed down through generations. Let’s explore some key components and examples of vernacular architecture.
A specific building site and local climate play a significant role in the creation of vernacular structures. Vernacular architecture is influenced by its site and climate rather than trying to influence its surroundings, which is a common goal of contemporary architecture. This results in built structures that are harmonious with their immediate context. Vernacular design pays close attention to the features of a site, leveraging the unique combination of opportunities it offers; it works with the existing topography, sun positions, wind patterns, temperature fluctuations, tree locations, bodies of water, and/or other nearby structures that can be used to the advantage of a building and its occupants. The resulting formal architectural gestures are therefore driven by necessity rather than artistic expression alone.
A great example of an impactful design feature of vernacular Iranian architecture that works to passively cool interior spaces in Iran’s hot and arid climate is a type of stack ventilation called badgir, which translates to “wind catcher” or “wind tower.” While wind catchers can function in different ways depending on their design and the weather, the wind catchers pictured in the photograph above are a type of badgir that are segmented on their insides, with the windward facing vents drawing fresh air down into the spaces below and the leeward vents bringing hot air up and out. This airflow is achieved in part by pressure differentials, with positive pressure on the windward side and negative pressure on the leeward side. Having the ability to selectively close and open vents adds extra control; when it’s cooler at night, occupants may only want the windward vents open to bring in cool air that can circulate and exit through lower openings. During peak temperatures, it can be the most beneficial to have the leeward vents open so that hot air can rise and escape while retaining cooler nighttime air. Placing a water feature such as a fountain directly below the badgir can help to cool the air and add humidity and extra comfort to the interior spaces, without using electricity or producing carbon emissions. They can work well in both rural and urban settings because even if there is a density of surrounding buildings, the badgir are meant to stand taller than nearby structures and can thereby still harness windflow.
Ingenuity in vernacular architecture can also be found in the Koti Banal homes in the earthquake-prone region of Uttarakhand in the Indian Himalayas. Most of these homes have been standing for the past 900 years and have survived several major seismic events. The Koti Banal homes feature a multi-level base structure with locally-sourced wood framing and stone infill, with the first level traditionally used to house livestock and the levels above for living spaces. Towards the top, a timber platform supports a wooden structure with a gable roof with additional living space. The top structures even feature verandas that can make the structures look top-heavy, even though the center of gravity of Koti Banal are quite low to the ground. The homes are up to five stories tall, like the one pictured above, and include large, continuous areas of wall that work to resist seismic forces. The ratio of the lengths of the base structure walls are typically between 1.1 to 1.4, and paired with the strength in both tension and compression of timber framing, the nearly symmetrical form and the materials themselves have quite literally stood the test of time.
Vernacular architecture shows us that there is infinite wisdom and specialized knowledge to learn from our ancestors, local craftspeople, and indigenous communities. It is my hope that modern architects can continue discovering and adapting vernacular technologies to contemporary structures in an effort to conserve resources while also leveraging cost savings.
Written by Kristin Fauske
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