Evaluation of vernacular architecture of Uzundere District (architectural typology and physical form of building) in relation to ecological sustainable development

Abstract

Since 1990, Uzundere district has attracted the attention of national and international organizations due to its rich ecological values, where different projects have been launched in various fields, such as agriculture, environment, tourism, urbanism and architectural heritage. Uzundere region has strong vernacular heritage shaped by the climate, topographic conditions, local materials, culture and social lifestyle. In this study, various types of rural houses are surveyed in villages in the region. The plan and section of the houses are prepared through the author’s field survey, measurements, sketches, observation and interviews with local people. Then, the architectural response of houses to the climate is evaluated in terms of physical form and architectural typology of buildings. The outcome of optimized usage of materials, construction techniques and climatic considerations occurred in the region during centuries can be utilized in today’s architectural practice, while the modern architecture needs environment-friendly buildings.

Keywords

• vernacular architecture
• sustainable development
• physical form of building
• rural heritage
• turkey