PE362 Elective 1 Vernacular Architecture of Kerala

Module 2_Questions
Answer briefly and to the point.
Include sketches wherever necessary.
Write short notes on the following (5 marks each)
1. Vernacular traditions are dynamic processes.
2. Vernacular architecture as an aid to interpret past knowledge.
3. Vernacular architecture as a socio-cultural indicator.
4. Determinants of form of vernacular architecture.
5. Socio- cultural aspects as determinants of form in vernacular architecture.
6. Climate as a determinant of form in vernacular architecture.
7. Political aspects as a determinant of form in vernacular architecture.
8. Economic aspects as a determinant of form in vernacular architecture.
9. Symbolic aspects as a determinant of form in vernacular architecture.
10. Technological aspects as a determinant of form in vernacular architecture.
11. Two methods for the survey and study of vernacular architecture.
12. Three simultaneous operations carried out during vernacular architecture survey.
13. Objectives of extensive recording in vernacular architecture survey.
14. Two distinct processes of intensive vernacular architecture survey.
15. Documentary investigation in vernacular architecture survey.
Explain briefly (7.5 or 10 marks each)
1. Explain why vernacular architecture is often regarded as a process.
2. Explain how learning vernacular process help to face the challenges and demands of
the present.
3. Enumerate the three significant changes took place in Kerala, that has affected the
socio-cultural fabric of the land and ultimately influenced its architecture.
4. Explain the role of various determinants of vernacular architecture in the creation of
form.
5. In certain cases of vernacular architecture, symbolism is apparently more important
than utility. Explain.
6. In certain cases of vernacular architecture, form is partly independent of materials and
structural means. Explain.

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 7. In certain cases of vernacular architecture, knowledge of technology does not mean that
it will be used. Explain.
8. Describe the basic preparations required prior to the commencement of vernacular
architecture survey.
9. Explain the procedure of extensive recording in vernacular architecture survey.
10. Explain the procedure of ‘measuring’ in intensive vernacular architecture survey.
Essay questions (15 marks each)
1. With the support of examples substantiate the argument, ‘vernacular architecture is
regarded as a process.’
2. Considering the significant transformations in the architecture of Kerala, explain how
‘a paradigm shift in architecture indicates major change in social fabric.’
3. Explain with the help of examples from Kerala, the role of various determinants of
vernacular architecture in the creation of its form.
4. For the given example (Figure 1) from vernacular architecture, identify and describe
the various determinants which influenced the generation of its characteristic features.

Figure 1 Bhunga house of Kutch

5. With the help of a case from vernacular architecture, explain the procedure of
conducting the survey.
(This is not an exhaustive list of questions. Similar questions are likely for your internal
examinations)