Tradition and Sustainability in Vernacular Architecture of Southeast Morocco

Abstract

This article is presented after ten years of research on the earthen architecture of southeastern Morocco, more specifically that of the natural axis connecting the cities of Midelt and Er-Rachidia, located North and South of the Moroccan northern High Atlas. The typology studied is called ksar (ksour, pl.). Throughout various research projects, we have been able to explore this territory, documenting in field sheets the characteristics of a total of 30 ksour in the Outat valley, 20 in the mountain range and 53 in the Mdagra oasis. The objective of the present work is to analyze, through qualitative and quantitative data, the main characteristics of this vernacular architecture as a perfect example of an environmentally respectful habitat, obtaining concrete data on its traditional character and its sustainability. The methodology followed is based on case studies and, as a result, we have obtained a typological classification of the ksour of this region and their relationship with the territory, as well as the social, functional, defensive, productive, and building characteristics that define them. Knowing and puttin in value this vernacular heritage is the first step towards protecting it and to show our commitment to future generations.

Construction System and Environment Adaptation of Traditional Architecture in Moluccas Island

“…The research was performed by literature study, field observations, and interviews as conducted by several previous researchers [11,14,29] to find out positive values on building construction systems, environmental adaptation strategies, and sustainable features using descriptive and architectural analysis to the conditions site, building orientation, construction techniques, building materials, ornaments, typology, and building philosophy. Sustainable features are analyzed using building sustainability assessment methods (see Figure 3).…”

“…Preserving local architecture and passing it on to future generations is important in terms of sustainability. Knowing and appreciating the vernacular heritage is the first step to protecting it and demonstrating our commitment to future generations [29]. Traditional architecture can be developed as a tourist icon to improve the economy of the surrounding community and as a conservation effort.…”

“…Local wisdom must be preserved for the next generation to improve the process of creating sustainable buildings in the future without disappearance the identity of the place and remaining in the same cultural context [9]. Positive values on traditional architecture in the past is important guidance in modern life [2,29,31].…”

Vernacular Heritage as a Response to Climate: Lessons for Future Climate Resilience from Rize, Turkey

“…Due to these constraints, local communities prefer the use of modern materials and techniques in the reconstruction of their vernacular buildings. However, these interventions are often poorly integrated into historic buildings [6] and cause rapid deterioration, including thermal discomfort [7]. In many cases, vernacular heritage is less energy-demanding and more environmental friendly than modern construction systems [8].…”

La vivienda de los tres espacios de Portoviejo como patrimonio cultural de las comunidades rurales manabitas

“…A nivel internacional, se publican muchos artículos sobre la arquitectura vernácula (Gil-Piqueras & Rodríguez-Navarro, 2021;Samalavičius & Traškinaitė, 2021;Davidson, 2013;Asquith, 2006) que revelan la identidad, autenticidad e importancia de las mismas para diferentes poblaciones alrededor del mundo.…”