All about Indian Vernacular Architecture

Which are the most recognizable vernacular architecture in the US?

Major Vernacular Architecture in Western countries, especially in the US, are Shot Gun Homes of the 1800s, Sears Homes of the 1900s, Ranch Homes of the 1950s, etc.

Major Vernacular Architecture in India

As you might be aware, India has a multitude of cultures, traditions, and languages. It has styles of vernacular architecture that are unique to the regions across the nation.

• Gujarati Bhunga

• Chuttilu Architecture style of Andhra Pradesh

• Timber & Mud Homes of Ladakh

• Naalukettu Style of Kerala

• Koti Banal

• Bamboo House of Assam

• Shri Bhima Kali Ji Temple in Himachal Pradesh

• Marwari Haveli (Rajasthan)
• Assamese Chera Cottage (Assam)
• Maratha Wada (Maharashtra)
• Goan Portuguese Houses
• Toda Mundu (Tamil Nadu)

Let's explore some of them.

1. Gujarati Bhunga

Bhunga Architectural style is prominent in Gujarat's Kutch regions. A Typical Bhunga will consist of a conical thatched roof and a cylindrical house design. A bhunga is made of mud bricks and has a single door as well as two windows.

The home will be elegantly designed with simple yet sophisticated mural artworks depicting nature and the daily lifestyle of the village.

This seemingly simple design helps the residents safeguard themselves from desert winds, sandstorms, heat, and also earthquakes.

2. Chuttilu Architecture style of Andhra Pradesh

The shuttle style of construction involves mud, wattle, rice paste, and ochre. A Truly indigenous style of building. The thatched roof is one of the highlights of the structure, the top comes down and protects the structure.

Divided into three circles, the inner circular and semi-circular structures are dedicated to the storage space. These structures are best for the farming community of the region.

3. Timber & Mud Homes of Ladakh

The iconic structures of Ladakh are built mostly of mud, clay, and timber components. These raw materials help to provide more heating in the extreme cold regions.

The structure is built as a large single room, with a furnace at the corner which acts as a heating source. The mud is sometimes mixed with sawdust to rope in more insulation against the extreme climate.

4. Naalukettu Style of Kerala

Naalu means "Four," and Kettu means "built sides," essentially meaning that the house is effectively covered in four sides with an open courtyard in the middle, the center of which is adorned with a structure to keep Tulsi Plant.

Naalukettu roofs are made up of sunburnt clay tiles, and the structure is built up of red, burnt bricks or limestones. These structures are built to block off the ill effects of the strong and torrid monsoons of Kerala. Each roof tile is replaceable, which makes it easy and cheap to keep the structure fresh every year.

5. Koti Banal

Perhaps the most interesting styles in this list, Koti Konal structures are perhaps one of the most recognizable forms of vernacular architecture in India.

Known for their extreme earthquake resistance, these homes are often 3-7 storeys high. The lower stories are for safeguarding the domesticated animals, the middle ones are for the residents, and the top ones are for storage.

Built on Thick Timber and reinforced stones, the structures are a blend of wooden frames and stone masonry. This is completed with slate roofs on the top.

6. Bamboo House of Assam

The Bamboo House of Assam is one of the traditional and vernacular architectural establishments and is renowned in the region. The house will be made of timber frames covered by 3 layers of mud mortar plaster with ikra panels in the walls. Frontside and backside will be provided for the house, giving them the name "chotal" and "bari". The roofing of the bamboo house of Assam is usually done as hip roofs or gable roofs.

7. Shri Bhima Kali Ji Temple in Himachal Pradesh

Yet another masterpiece of vernacular architecture, the Shri Bhimakali Temple, was settled in the town of Sarahan in Himachal Pradesh. It is a traditional wooden architectural marvel and is one of the iconic landmarks in Himachal Pradesh. Having one-of-its-kind architectural significance and renowned for it religious practices, the Bhimakali Temple is popular across the globe and several devotees and visitors came to offer their prayers or have a look at this architectural masterpiece in Himachal Pradesh.

8. Marwari Haveli (Rajasthan)

The Marwari Haveli in Rajasthan represents the architectural history of the Marwari mercantile community. These enormous houses feature finely carved sandstone facades that highlight the region's workmanship and artistry. Central courtyards, a feature of Indian vernacular design, provide natural circulation and give cooling relief during Rajasthan's hot summers. Jharokhas, or oriel windows extending from the upper stories, not only offer decorative flair but also allow people to watch the street below while remaining private. These enormous structures reflect the Marwari community's affluence and successful trade.

9. Assamese Chera Cottage (Assam)

The Assamese Chera Cottage illustrates an ideal balance of form and function. These houses, built on an elevated platform of robust bamboo stilts, are well-suited to Assam's flood-prone terrain. This innovative elevation protects living spaces from rising waters, providing the safety and security of residents during the monsoon. Thatched roofs made from locally obtained materials provide excellent insulation against the region's harsh sun and frequent rains. The sloping shape of these roofs allows for more effective rainwater drainage, eliminating leaks and ensuring the cottage's structural integrity throughout the year.

10. Maratha Wada (Maharashtra)

The Maratha Wada, a type of fortified mansion found in Maharashtra, India, serves as a reminder of the region's strong martial heritage. These architectural marvels, built of solid stone and mud, were designed for defense. High walls, typically reaching two stories tall, ringed the Wada, forming a safe inner compound. Watchtowers, strategically placed at intervals along the walls, gave watchful sentries a clear view of the surrounding landscape, allowing them to detect incoming threats. These architectural elements were more than just functional; they represented the valiant spirit of the Marathas, who were known for their military skill and horseback. The Wada served as both a dwelling and a defense outpost, depicting life in the past.

11. Goan Portuguese Houses

The architecturally notable Goan Portuguese Houses line the streets of Goa. These residences, influenced by Portugal's colonial past, represent a blend of European and Indian design ideas. These houses were designed with aesthetics and functionality in mind, and their use of pastel colors creates a visually appealing cityscape. Wrought iron balconies with elaborate designs not only add to the beauty of the houses, but also give an ideal place to rest and enjoy the warm Goan nights. Topping it all off are terracotta tiled roofs, a classic feature that gives a touch of regional history to these architectural marvels.

12. Toda Mundu (Tamil Nadu)

Toda Mundu in Tamil Nadu is known for its unique, semi-circular cottages with thatched roofs, which are typical of the Toda tribe's architectural style. These homes, made of bamboo and mud, demonstrate the tribe's inventiveness and sustainable building practices. The design of these huts not only provides great weather protection, but it also symbolizes the Toda tribe's strong connection to their natural surroundings and cultural legacy, making them an important part of Tamil Nadu's rich cultural tapestry.

Top Vernacular Architects in India

Below are some of the most sought-after and legendary vernacular architects in India:

• Benny Kuriakose

• Eugene Pandala

• Revathi Kamath

• Laurir Baker

• Achyut Kanvinde

• Didi Contractor

• Laurie Baker

So, folks, this was a glimpse of Indian Vernacular Architecture.

We will come back with another interesting topic next time.