Exploring Sustainability Aspects of Vernacular Houses in Contemporary Settings: Case Study of Kankumbi Village

Sustainability has been an integral and essential aspect of rich and diverse cultural heritage in the Indian context. Vernacular settlements across India exhibit a variety of sustainability approaches that can provide solutions to many issues in contemporary architectural practice. Through effective use of indigenously developed construction techniques, bioclimatic methodologies, and efficient use of local materials, these settlements are a rich source of traditional knowledge awaiting further exploration. These time-tested, resilient responses to social and climatic concerns have evolved, creating an optimum relationship between people, places, and nature. The houses exhibit the essence of sustainability—efficient use of resources, ecologically sensitive, and minimising environmental impact. They can provide unique solutions to present-day concerns related to various environmental issues, energy efficiency, and climate change. This study attempts to document and explore the sustainability aspects of these vernacular settlements through a case study of Kankumbi village. The rich socio-cultural traditions and knowledge need to be taken care of, which may be lost forever unless explored, documented, and preserved. Many of these times, tasted principles help address present-day issues and concerns.