Indian heritage houses are rich in tradition and architectural finesse. Yet many are sadly demolished as modern buildings are more sought after both for easier maintenance and better usage of spaces through rectangular or square formations. However, the fact remains that many of these structures are intriguing as they have been able to withstand the pressures of the hostile environment and changes in climate for centuries. Even more intriguing is the fact that all modern buildings are given at the most a couple of decades or three as guarantee by their architects and even then many of them are on the verge of hasty repair work with the passing of the first decade itself. Perhaps this is more revealing in those areas of the country where the vagaries of the monsoon and the sudden change of climates makes these modern architect somewhat more of a risk than the traditional form of architecture.
The 'vernacular structures' as they are also called are especially meant to suit that particular environment within that narrow defined limits of the climate and artistic changes. This is because each of these structures are made in tune with the particular climate of those parts of the country and this may even vary from one region or area within a district of a state itself as the environment changes and the reason of their historic importance. Again, the vernacular structures which are mostly residential houses for large joint families in the country as was and still remains the prevalent practice embraces that particular spot or area as no other form of traditional structures do. This blending with the niche environment space and the time they have been established gives them a uniqueness that differs quite widely with other of the same architect genre. Obviously, the vernacular structures gives them a stubborn authentication and peculiarities of the environment of the place where they have been built making them a revealing piece of marvel all of their own unlike those of the stereotypes of the modern architecture.
For many Indian traditional households these types of houses symbolizes the degree of their wealth, prominence, dignity and sphere of influence and profession such that travelers coming from far off places within the country can distinguish between the families dwelling in each of the houses could be ascertained and stored in memory within a few days of stay in those parts. Some parts of the houses they say lives and breathes of the ancestors who once stayed or has long gone elsewhere. Perhaps this is the very reason that old ancient mansions and houses have their own vividly tales, some very horrific and some sad while some foretell great tragedies all woven into each of the ancient furniture and pieces of art work in that house.
Although its quite a feat to maintain such mansions and houses in modern times however their expenses could be a costly affair. Yet for those who can afford these vernacular structures it surely is walk through some unique moments of history and cheerful family gatherings of those bygone days. Many of these structures have in the recent times been converted into hotels and heritage palaces for tourists to experience the same traditional feelings the erstwhile property owners once had.Still, all is not lost in the area of such construction as there is serious thinking of making such ancient form of construction as a viable alternative to the stereotypes that are plentifully available in the archetuctural and construction field of today. Modern Vernacular Structures with more sustaining designs should be the password in the study of futuristic designs. Imposing Vernacular Constuction Kerala style has made great inroads into the thinking patterns of how to construct modern structures having serious blend of designs with the past as well could be the role models for houses and buildings that have to experience the volatile tropical rainforest climate prevalent in the state. Besides, who knows that such construction would be a better exotic approach for the international market that have not yet expeienced anything like this before.
It is those construction entrpreneurs who have such bold ideas in their minds to create a niche market for themselves through a blend of vernacular construction and other exotic range of houses and structures who really are the architect of their future.
Visibly vernacular construction will make a comeback as people would seek the non stereo type construction works..
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