As we move farther and faster into quick fix, factory made solutions for almost all facets of the construction industry, there also exists a strong paradoxical intent to go back in time and appreciate slow craft and all things made by hand. Call it the exhaustion of mundane or the “one shoe fits all” solutions. Whatever the reason maybe, the winds of change are refreshing.
To be honest, I myself had a slow and late realization here. With no architectural background, urban born & urban grown and exposure to architecture being restricted to the curriculum; I probably always thought design solutions had to be urban. As architecture took me places (literally), I had the opportunity to interact with local artisans & craftsmen first hand. Here began my process of unlearning. The more I delved into it, the more it felt real. A sense of genuineness and authenticity.
Local craftsmanship in architecture is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and skilled artisanship that define a community’s identity. It encompasses the unique techniques, materials, and design philosophies passed down through generations, resulting in structures that harmonize with their environment and tell the story of the people who built them. A story that always add a human value behind the built form.
Moreover, they are the real teachers and their craft is the biggest learning. Their craft is not just a profession, but a testament to their heritage and tradition. As the true custodians of the built environment, they infuse a sense of devotion and realism, which stands the test of time.
The relationship between local artisans and natural materials is deeply intertwined. What nature has to offer has always defined their craft. Vernacular, naturally sourced materials have long been integral to sustainable architecture in India, embodying an eco-friendly approach that harmonizes with the environment and cultural heritage. These materials, sourced locally and often processed using traditional techniques, contribute to the creation of buildings that are both resource-efficient and culturally resonant. And most importantly, rendering a conscious built form within the living environment.
As they say, answers to most things lie in the nature. And it couldn’t have been more true in the case of Architecture. Vernacular materials add a lot more value than modern, off the shelves materials.
With their low carbon footprint, climate responsiveness and biodegradability, local materials play a big role in sustainable and conscious architecture design. While most of us certainly are familiar with this, their importance goes way deeper.
The usage of vernacular materials add to the contextual relevance and significance of the land. They ensure the built forms maintain a harmony with the natural landscape of the region. They also help render an architectural identity unique to the contextual of the region and invariably helping in preserving the cultural heritage.
Commercially too, if ethically sourced from the natural sources, locally sourced materials often cost less due to reduced transportation and processing expenses.
With Biophilia being the order of the day and with the growing need for healthier living conditions, vernacular materials serve as the right ingredients to foster a connection with nature, improving mental well-being and comfort.
A few prominent examples of architectural practices where local artisans and vernacular materials take centre stage:
Laurie Baker Centre for Habitat studies, Thiruvananthapuram: Late. Laurie Baker’s designs emphasize the use of local materials like brick and mud, promoting cost-effective, energy-efficient, and aesthetically pleasing structures.
Hunnarshala Foundation, Bhuj: They focus on rehabilitating communities using local materials and traditional building techniques, exemplified in post-earthquake reconstruction projects utilizing adobe and stone.
PYHT Bio Architects: Led by a dear friend Ar. Areen Attari, their projects incorporate earth-based construction methods, site responsible solutions and local materials adaptation in construction thus demonstrating the viability of sustainable architecture in modern contexts.
The significance of local artisans & craftsmen integrated with vernacular materials in Indian architecture is not only a nod to the country’s rich architectural heritage but also a critical practice for fostering sustainability. Vernacular can be fashionably modern too as exhibited in various projects by contemporary Architects. By embracing these materials, architects and builders can create structures that are environmentally responsible, economically viable, and culturally meaningful. Thus paving the way for a future where architecture works in harmony with nature, without losing its soul.
