Vernacular architecture is referred to a particular kind of construction based on local resources and traditions with the intention of addressing to local needs. The most striking feature about this category of traditional architectural style is it reflects the cultural, environmental and historical standpoint of its time. This particular form of ancient architecture was more or less based on knowledge acquired by trial and error and from the ideas drawn from local traditions. The derived information continued to exist as one generation passed it on to the next.
Learning About Climatic Conditions Through Vernacular Architecture
Vernacular architecture has become one of the more significant points of discussion. A large section of the intelligentsia has pointed out how the buildings displaying vernacular architectural styles reveal the past macro climate of the region they were built in. The buildings that showcased significant thermal mass or high amounts of insulation are a clear giveaway that those areas experienced chilling climatic conditions during the time they were constructed. On the other hand the places enjoying warm climate in the past have buildings built of lighter materials. Apart from these buildings were also made up of highly porous fabric that allowed considerable cross ventilation.
Gaining Information About Cultures With The Aid of Vernacular Architecture
Those of you who are interested in learning about past cultural attributes of a particular place can do so by doing a close study of buildings modeled on vernacular architecture. Occupants of these buildings designed their look on the basis of local beliefs and customs prevalent during their times. You can derive extensive knowledge about the lifestyle of these dwellers, their social and family setup, cooking and eating habits and their social skills. In most cases the simple size and layout of the contraction is good enough to ascertain all such data that hold great historical significance.
Determining Environment Through Vernacular Architecture
As mentioned easier, vernacular architecture was primarily depended on natural resources. While wooden architectures would reflect that the place was full of natural vegetation a stone house on the other hand would essentially would indicate that the particular piece of land was quite unproductive in nature.
Buildings modeled on vernacular architecture are perfect for tracing or verifying facts about our world history. Still a lot remains to be learned from these magnificent architectures that have managed to last over centuries of time. No wonder most governments consider these buildings as part of their heritage and are willing to provide all possible protective measures to save them from external damages.
