| abstract | Conservation of earthen buildings often focuses on repairing and restoring walls, roofs, etc. However, there are oft-overlooked tangible and intangible aspects such as various construction and architectural details and beliefs and lifestyle practices that also play a role in the reservation and upkeep of earth buildings.
Region-wise documentation of local building cultures, beliefs, and practices could provide cues into how these aid in slowing down the everyday wear and tear that buildings are subjected to, owing to their surroundings, climatic conditions, etc. These construction aspects and lifestyle practices may vary every few meters as they adapt to the buildings’ micro-environments. As many of these earth-building systems are now lost, and traditional lifestyle habits are either no longer practiced or lay hidden in
the routines of everyday life — they remain forgotten or unacknowledged.
In this research paper, 16 vernacular earth structures in Goa − India (mainly cob, rammed-earth, and adobe) were studied and analyzed. In addition, inputs were gathered from local inhabitants, masons, and professionals. The study reveals construction details, architectural aspects, religious beliefs, and lifestyle practices that — intentionally or not — lend themselves to the maintenance and longevity of earth buildings. This understanding (clubbed with scientific and technical methods) could enhance how we approach the conservation of earth-buildings today. |