Vernacular architecture refers to the traditional and local style of building construction that is indigenous to a particular place, culture, and climate. It is a type of architecture that is typically designed and built by the people who will occupy the buildings, rather than by professional architects.
Vernacular architecture is often characterized by using local materials, simple construction techniques, and emphasizing functionality over form. The design of vernacular buildings is often based on the local climate, available materials, and cultural practices, resulting in buildings that are well-suited to their environment and context.
Examples of vernacular architecture include traditional houses, barns, and other agricultural buildings, as well as urban dwellings and commercial buildings. Vernacular architecture can be found worldwide, from the mud-brick houses of Africa to the wooden homes of Scandinavia, and from the adobe buildings of the Southwest United States to the stilt houses of Southeast Asia.
Vernacular architecture in India is a rich and diverse field, shaped by the country’s diverse climate, topography, and cultural traditions. India has a long history of traditional building practices that have evolved over time, with each region having its unique style of vernacular architecture.
One of the most well-known examples of Indian vernacular architecture is the archetypal courtyard houses, which are found in many parts of the country. These houses are typically built around a central courtyard, with rooms arranged around it. They are designed to provide protection from the harsh sun, wind, and rain, while also promoting social interaction and privacy.
Another example of Indian vernacular architecture is the chhatri, a small pavilion or canopy often used as a resting place or shelter from the sun. These structures are typically built on pillars or columns, with a domed or pyramidal roof, and are found in many parts of the country, particularly in Rajasthan.
The stepwell, also known as baori or vav, is another type of vernacular architecture found in India. These elaborate structures were designed to provide access to water in regions where water is scarce or the groundwater is deep. They feature a series of steps leading down to a well, with intricate carvings and ornamentation on the walls.
Other examples of Indian vernacular architecture include the traditional wooden houses of Kerala, the havelis of Rajasthan, and the stilt houses of the Northeastern states. These structures are all unique to their respective regions and reflect the rich cultural heritage of India.
The following are the most iconic contemporary Vernacular architectural building examples in India:
One of the most talked about projects of recent years has been the Rajkumari Rajnavati Girl’s School in Jaisalmer for its brilliant use of local materials. Designed by US-based firm, Diana Kellog Architects, the school has become an architectural marvel regarding space for economically challenged, geographically remote, and marginalized communities worldwide.
The building is in an oval form with a courtyard in the center and the classes in the periphery. The entire structure is made of locally sourced sandstone and used monolithically.
Designed by Ahmedabad-based studio d6thD, the Aranya Farmstay Resort at Sasan Gir explores its vernacular contexts. d6thD specializes in vernacular architectural practice and has created this hospitality setting in the rural area of Sasan Gir.
An NRI couple who was really proud of their culture wanted to design a contemporary house, keeping traditional values and architecture intact. The Affinity house is situated in Kerala in a private enclave, showcasing contemporary styling along with traditional architectural elements and materials.
Kondan Retreat Resort is situated near Pune’s hillsides where the context was vital for the building design. Interestingly, much of the building materials were sourced from the site itself. From a vernacular perspective, the design resonated with its local usage of materials and style of heritage architecture.
The Muziris Pavilion is one of the most amazing examples of Vernacular architecture and its modern interpretation in India. The pavilion is a performance space that is semi-covered with bamboo and wooden structure. Bamboo has been an important material for this terrain as it is durable, sturdy, and sustainable.
The apple farm stay is a 100-year-old heritage site refurbished into a unique Airbnb. Interestingly, the home is revived in a way that retains its vernacular Kath Kuni architecture. Situated in the Northern part of India, this house is a popular place for a staycation in that particular region.
Forest Essentials is an Indian modern skincare company that basis on Ayurveda. The Lodsi community project, designed by Morphogenesis explores the vernacular architecture of the Himalayan foothills. The local design style influenced Morphogenesis to implement ancient construction techniques to build this contemporary production facility.
Due to difficulty in resources, the firm decided to achieve net-zero and energy-efficient building design.
Taj Rishikesh Resort and Spa is one of the most luxurious vernacular architecture examples in India. The designers consciously studied the context and implemented vernacular elements in the making of it. The entire layout follows the hilly site in the form of a darbargadh; a combination of fortress, palace, and temple.
Situated in the state of Odisha, Krushi Bhavan is a government facility for Odisha’s agriculture and farmers’ empowerment. The state is the third largest contributor to India’s grain supply, hence the facility needed to reflect that through its architecture. The designers adapted the vernacular architectural elements that beautifully showcase the traditional facade design of the building.
India has a varied series of architectural styles from North to South and East to West. Which one did you like the best in terms of the vernacular style adaptation in a contemporary way?
Scarlett Designs Pvt. Ltd. (SDPL) blurs the boundaries between structure and nature with the conceptualization and design of the elemental villas at Ananta Spa and Resort, Ajabgarh. Nestled amidst the majestic Aravalli ranges, the design of the resort draws inspiration from the vastness of its surroundings and natural elements. Each villa type, including Earth, Lagoon, […]
The design of Habitat 0 begins with the central concept of a vacation home community organized around a circular form. This layout places individual spaces radially around a central circular courtyard, creating an environment where every space has access to expansive views of the surrounding greenery. The circular design is essential in fostering a deep […]
Nestled in the tranquil village of Thenipalam, Malappuram, Aman is a 2,800 sq. ft. residence, manifesting its Urdu namesake, meaning peace, sanctuary, and security. Designed by Vaktra Architects, this traditional Kerala home is a testament to simplicity, blending Kerala’s tropical ethos with contemporary elegance. This Traditional Kerala Home is Rooted in Simplicity and Modern Elegance […]
Pranjali – The Doctor’s Bungalow is a peaceful and practical modern bungalow design located in Naya Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The name Pranjali, meaning “a graceful offering” or “a gesture of respect,” reflects the spirit of this residence—a calm, humble, and thoughtful space created for a doctor couple seeking balance in their busy lives. The design goal […]
The contemporary style architecture house is located in the lively urban context of Thaltej, Ahmedabad nestled within a private cluster of four bungalows. Though the home enjoys the benefits of community, it also maintains a high degree of privacy and seclusion. This is achieved through a carefully considered spatial arrangement, despite the proximity of a […]
Screenwriter and director Megha Ramaswamy approached Fractal Chaos to design an organic home as a weekend retreat in Pasli Gaon, Velhe—a village about 150 km from Pune. The site is located between the Deccan Plateau and the Western Ghats, which gives it a unique ecology with 4 seasons. Drawn to the land by a bordering […]
Situated in the bustling residential neighbourhood of Koorkenchery, Thrissur, Dr. Lakshmi’s residence stands as a refined architectural response to a narrow 15.53 cent plot. The 4214.07 sq ft home is a seamless blend of modern traditional kerala house, with an Indonesian inspired grey white exterior that exudes sophistication. The design strategically employs linear planning, integrating […]
Imagine a home that breathes with the breeze, where sunlight filters through lush foliage, and the vibrant hues of nature are an extension of your living space. Tropical houses are architectural marvels; a profound dialogue between human habitation and the natural world, born from centuries of adapting to warm, humid climates. Far from rigid structures, […]
Kerala style homes have courtyards surrounded by rooms on each side. Traditional Kerala-style homes have a central courtyard known as Nadumuttam surrounded by rooms. These homes promote natural light and ventilation according to the region’s climate. These homes, due to the feature of courtyards as their core spaces, offer beautiful opportunities for social gatherings. This […]
Aangan is a modern residence that seamlessly integrates with the lush environment of Kerala, showcasing a tropical home design. Designed to embrace the region’s warm climate, the house features a striking sloped terracotta roof at varying levels, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency. The structure is enveloped in a vibrant tropical landscape, adorned […]