The vernacular an evolving tradition

Abstract

Vernacular architecture has always been the popular and traditional response to the vicissitudes of climate, the use of indigenous materials that are easily available in the surrounding environment and mirror, a reflection of a society's basic needs. The vernacular is not static, it is a dynamic process, however when stifled by a static material palate, the vernacular remains vibrant but unchanged. Thus the expression of the different periods in man's history is concretized in the vernacular or could be the same or different. There is no concept of age, it is ageless and contemporary. The vernacular is influenced by common attitude towards a need to live rather than an expression of wealth and or a pompous exuberance. The expressions were simple however exceptions are seen. The purpose of this paper is to draw the line of evolution of vernacular architecture in Sri Lanka through two millenniums from earliest Anuradhapura up to today and propose and discuss reasons for the influence that could make or break the chain.