Vernacular Architecture of India: A profound Homogenization of Unfiltered Art & Culture

India has a rich heritage with talented artists and craftsmen, who are weaving innovation from the scrap and taking the product to the next level. Like any other different spheres, architecture also has come a long way shifting towards modernization. People started creating shelters for themselves when they started to lead settled life. The traditional or vernacular architecture came into being with the zeal of crafting a comfortable shelter to maintain a cozy life with family.

Vernacular architecture is not followed by any specific style or designs. The people used to create their homes using the material from the surroundings. Gradually, with each passing day, society’s needs and requirements forced the people to upgrade their construction method according to the climatic conditions of the region. 

Vernacular architecture is traditional, indigenous, or native architecture which depicts the characteristics of the surroundings and the lifestyle of the people. It presents a wide array of discreet style of architecture & construction. 

Facets of Vernacular Architecture

Vernacular architecture is always led by the necessity and requirements of the people rather than only thinking about luxury and comfort. It also centers round the cultural values and local sustainable resources which creates a connection with the nature and natural resources. In most of the cases, people who reside in their own house construct traditional house for the daily living rather than any professional architect.

Vernacular architecture is widely characterized by simple construction techniques, which aligns with locally available materials, and cultural practices. Houses, barns, sheds, and even temples are bright examples of traditional buildings that might be considered to be examples of vernacular architecture. These buildings also reflect the cultural norms, historical events, and historical significance of a certain location or community. In terms of longevity these traditional buildings can outwit the contemporary and professionally designed buildings and successfully withstand the test of time. By preserving these vernacular architectures, we can preserve the golden heritage of India and show a tribute to the royal cultural traditions.

Traditional Vernacular Style encounters Modern Contemporary Style

Today, technology is progressing by innovating amaze balls full of wonders and providing the finest life to the human being. The modern contemporary architecture is mostly influenced by western cultures and traditions, and in case of interior design & home decor, the upgraded styles are being blended with traditional ones and new forms like bohemian style of decor came into being.

Traditional houses are the synthesis of colonial, farmhouse, and neoclassical architectural forms rooted in the 20th century. Modern architects and interior designers are carefully extracting elements from the traditional ideas and featuring them in modern contemporary decor.

Right from the dawn of civilization, people have started and practiced different architectural and home decor styles. Nowadays, talented architects and designers are infusing old & new and local & global with traditional and innovative to contribute a strong bold path towards sustainability and cultural prevention.

A few rich and diverse styles of Architecture & Interior Design of India-

Kothi Banal or Kath-Khuni Architecture of Himalayan Valley

As the Himalayan region is rough, tilted, and earthquake prone, the houses of this area are made earthquake-resistant. These houses are built with the help of stone, either with or without the use of mortar. The structure of the building rests upon a raised platform made from dry masonry over the foundation, the walls of such houses are 50 to 60cm thick and are made up of timber reinforced stone masonry, which make it light weight. These houses have minimal openings so that the heat is trapped inside of room. In the Rajgarhi area of Uttarkashi, the houses are 2 to 7 storey high. The roofs generally consist of a wooden frame that is cladded with slate tiles. Now-a-days boutique hotels and resorts are constructing such eco-friendly buildings with high end amenities and extracting a lucrative profit.