This immersive 5-week introductory course is specifically tailored for individuals interested in delving into the captivating world of vernacular architecture. It explores the subject of everyday buildings, landscapes, and sites that are not designed by professional architects but are created by “ordinary” practitioners. The course investigates how vernacular architecture serves as a manifestation of local identity, indigenous traditions, and the assimilation of diverse cultures.

The course delves into various topics, including native building materials, the dynamic interaction between people, culture, and the vernacular, as well as the significance of the vernacular landscape. With a particular emphasis on the architectural heritage of Asia, the course offers a closer examination of diverse examples, ranging from the leather yurts in Mongolia to timber houses in Japan, and from brick, mud, and straw houses in India to reinforced concrete fortified towers and grey brick courtyard houses in Southern China, including Macau and Hong Kong.

Designed to foster lively discussions and dialogues, while contributing to the discourse surrounding the concept of vernacular architecture, this course challenges preconceived notions of tradition and encourages a deeper analysis of one’s local environment. We are particularly interested in hearing about how you connect your newfound understanding to the vernacular architecture in your own neighborhood.