Vernacular Architecture

             

              Vernacular architecture is a method of construction in which people use the local resources to address the local needs.  This kind of architecture develops over time and can be influenced by the natural environment, the cultural and social factors. Different materials were used for construction based on the environment of the area they live in.  The materials are stones, mud bricks, palm tree reeds, and wood.   In the United Arab Emirates there are various types of vernacular houses:

1-      Tents: Tents were made of animal skin and hair. Bedouins used them as shelter during the wintertime. They divided it into two parts, one for men and the other for women. Some tents were used as kitchens and as stores. The tents were settled around the oasis area.

An old tent

1-      Al Arish: Al Arish houses were made up of palm fronds. They were used as houses during the summertime. Also, they were divided into two parts:  a main area for sitting, and a small area for cooking and raising animals.

Al Arish

1-      Permanent houses:  Permanent houses were made of guss (mud mixture made as blocks) or stones and the roof was covered with palm fronds. The houses were built for both, winter and summer. The permanent houses were composed of a central courtyard, an eating area, and a storage area.

Permenant houses

Materials for vernacular architecture