NATIVE IDIOM IN ARCHITECTURE

Habitat Technology Group’s work highlights the importance and significance of native idiom in architecture. The organization strives to preserve the native architectural wisdom, and integrate it appropriately with modern approaches.

The architecture of a geographical region evolves through long years bearing the mark of interactions the people had with environment and forces of nature. It reflects the compulsions and concerns of inhabitants of a particular geographical region. Selection of building materials is decided primarily by the easy availability of materials.

Hence leaves of trees, wood, granite, laterite, mud, or any other material abundantly available in that locality becomes the material to construct a shelter.

Climatic conditions are another factor that decides the shape, size, structure, as well as the materials used for construction.

In a region which gets copious rain most part of the year, roof has to be designed to facilitate complete drainage of water. Hence sloping roof is common in tropical region. Distribution of light, circulation of air, and many such aspects has to be taken into account.

Personal as well as vocational demands of the inhabitants decide the space distribution and layout plan of the dwelling place. A farmer needs additional space to keep his cattle and agricultural implements. These demands vary according to the occupation of each individual. The dominant architectural features of a particular area will reflect the common concerns of the people.

When we take into account all these factors it becomes clear that evolution of an architectural style is greatly dependant on the socio-cultural ethos of the people.

The marks of culture is stamped on the architectural style, as these are deeply etched in the minds of people and intricately connected with their day to day life. That is why it is impossible to ignore this.

This fact emphasis the point why an architect should thoroughly familiarise himself with the culture before attempting to take up a work.

Native idiom in architecture is often mistakenly understood as merely an aesthetic factor. But in fact it is much more deeper than that. These factors that are unchanged and intrinsic, decide the physical, mental and emotional well being of the inhabitants of the house.

Native genius of the people has evolved highly energy efficient structures, which even rival the modern scientific designing. This was achieved through long years of evolution involving trial and error method.

Thus “Vastushilpa Shastra” which integrates the ancient knowledge of cosmic forces, with their genius to construct homes that are perfectly in rhythm with environment is still an inspiring approach to the modern architect. Infusing ancient wisdom with modern scientific understanding will make it possible to design, construct, and preserve human shelters and settlement that are perfectly in harmony with nature.

Habitat technology group has been very active in preserving native idioms of architecture, as it represents in essence the identity.

• Habitat’s architectural style is based on the native idiom, the native identity, and the care to preserve the sense of oneness with environment.
• As a means to preserve native identity in architecture, Habitat is actively engaged in preserving heritage buildings.
• Habitat organizes campaigns and awareness programmes to achieve the above said goals.
• Habitat is in the forefront of identifying and recognizing talents in various areas of construction, habitat preserves and ensures the continuation of native idiom in architecture.
• Habitat’s intervention has helped local traditions in architecture and construction in Kerala.
• Mud, mud blocks, laterite blocks, granite etc is used according to availability.;
• Sloped roof, tiles, central courtyard and many such mechanisms to ensure air insulation, and light distribution were revived.