Sustainable development of Lithuanian vernacular architecture

Abstract

Old vernacular architecture naturally embodies principles of sustainable development such as close relation with nature, healthy environment; building materials are mostly local, natural, from renewable sources. However, nowadays, old vernacular buildings do not satisfy some of the norms for a contemporary building. To ensure quality of living environment and satisfying building norms/requirements, the old structures should be renewed. When considering new buildings based on features of vernacular architecture, they also should meet current building norms. Accordingly, in many cases development of vernacular architecture meets with difficulties when trying to find the balance between tradition continuity and contemporary norms, especially when natural development was stopped and refreshed after few decades. The problem under consideration is illustrated by examples of development of vernacular buildings in the territory of Lithuania. Existing situation was analyzed and four possible ways/directions of vernacular architecture development have been recognized. The aim of the research was to reveal these ways/directions through sustainable development and tradition continuity aspect and to find their advantages and disadvantages using SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis. Based on the comprehensive analysis, research conclusions and recommendations as concerns sustainable development of Lithuanian vernacular architecture have been formulated.