The Importance Of Vernacular Architecture

1291 Words3 Pages

2.4. CLIMATE AND VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE
Vernacular architecture is a category of architecture which is based on local needs, construction materials and reflecting local traditions One of the main influences on vernacular architecture is the macro climate of the area in which the building is to be constructed. Buildings in cold climates invariably have high thermal mass or significant amounts of insulation. They are usually sealed in order to prevent heat loss, and openings such as windows tend to be small or non-existent. Buildings in warm climates, by contrast, tend to be constructed of lighter materials and to allow significant cross-ventilation through openings in the fabric of the building.
13 | P a g e
Buildings for a continental climate …show more content…

Further, ventilators are provided for attic ventilation when wooden false ceiling is incorporated for the room spaces. The roofs thus enclose a large insulated air space thus, keeping the lower areas cooler. A typical Kerala traditional house consists of two major living areas - inner one forming the core of the house and the outer verandahs forming the
Figure 4 POOMUKHAM
Figure 5 IRAYAM
Figure 6 CONCEPT OF IR MOVEMENT THROUGH THE COURTYARD
17 | P a g e periphery. The house form offer flexibility and it helps the inhabitants to shift their activities from one place to another in different climatic conditions. An important aspect of the Kerala traditional architecture is the usage of courtyards. In dry season the inner courtyards are used for drying, cleaning and preparing cereals, food etc.The courtyard also functions as a major functional element in the house with most of the internal movement and circulation of people defined by the verandahs around the courtyard, as the major rooms are entered from this verandah. MATERIALS
The commonly used building materials for vernacular construction in Kerala are mud, laterite, granite stone, lime mortar, wood, bamboo, clay tile roofing and coconut palm

Open Document