myth

Why is it that there seems to be very little information about African vernacular architecture?

Is it because of perceptions that the techniques and materials have?

Let's start by addressing some of the "myths" that are associated with vernacular architecture.ssso

Mud house: Any primitive dwelling having walls of unbaked earth; often constructed of molded sun-dried blocks of mud usually mixed with straw, manure, or other material to provide increased mechanical strength. McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Architecture and Construction

Mud hut: A hut is a small and crude shelter, usually used for dwelling. Its design favors local techniques and materials.

For many people their perception of African vernacular is a basic mud hut. Even though a hut is an example it is not the only type.

By definition, huts are "primitive" and "crude"... and you know what? This simply is not true for all cases.

This hut is primitive... but many times this is based on economy. The owner just probably can not afford a proper thatch roof... so it is thinner and thus leaks after a year or 2.

Also, a layer of mud to protect the earth bricks from the elements are too costly and so it erodes over time.

But... this is no reason to dismiss an entire system... because vernacular materials and techniques are used to build these structures.

These structures are stunning in their beauty and creativity. The organic materials give a very "earthy" feel to it. Not only are the structures habital... they are comfortable and... most importantly... desireable.

Lets take this thought process to another material... wood.

This image conveys a sense of permanance.. of comfort.. of a home.

But wood construction also was used to create this shack.. which is someones home as well.

So... do we dismiss an entire material and construction techniques because of one undesireable "type... of course not. But that is exactally what happened to African vernacular architecture.

African vernacular materials have many desireable characteristics. Burnt brick and earth rammed walls are very sturdy and along with thatch have incredible insulation values. Also... these materails have industry standards... they are known entities.

The problem is that people are just not aware... they just do not know!.

And that is my point of my blogs... to bring to light the information that is already out there... and to prove that there must be more to break these misconceptions... this myth.