Sri Lankan vernacular architecture as an appropriate response to the basic forces in built environment : a case study on vernacular architecture in Rathnapura district

Abstract

It is widely achieved that the built environment is made as a resulting of three basic forces; namely social technological and environmental. This has the conformed by the well-known researcher Amost Rapoport too. Early people built their living space as response to t he basic forces in built environment. They lived in vernacular houses, which were very close to the nature. Building materials used were not harmful to the dwellers. Vernacular architecture in Sri Lanaka indicates regional pattern and type, which were created in different basic forces of respective regions. This study is on attempt to understanding vernacular architecture as a response to the basic forces. Building orientation Building forms Use of materials Construction technology The above will be studied in depth. The vernacular architecture is not only a response only to basic forces, but also a masterpiece of beauty, physical and social functionary.