A comprehensive reference work on vernacular architecture

Traditionalbuilding methods - such as those used in pueblos, timbered houses, orthe Japanese minka - exist in fascinating diversity and create the faceof a region. However, as a result of globalization they have beenmarginalized in many places. In the fastest developing countries inparticular, a wealth of experience that goes back hundreds of years isbeing irretrievably lost, even though valuable insights can be gainedfor modern building.

Using the examples of selecteddomestic buildings from all continents, 30 international expertsdemonstrate why we can still learn from vernacular architecture; theyanalyze the cultural context and the adaptation to topographic/climacticconditions, and focus on the local materials used as well as on theconstruction, the building process, and the necessary maintenance.

• A comprehensive reference work covering traditional building methods
• Numerous examples of vernacular domestic architecture from all five continents
• More than 1000 impressive color photographs and detailed drawings
• Also available in German