Tishk International University

Faculty of Engineering

Architecture Department

Vernacular Architecture

Prepared by:

Awin Shakir

Rezhaw Dildar

Dana Sabah

Abdulaziz Qasm

Abdullah muhammed

Mohamed shaxawan

Supervised by:

Mr. . Darbaz

7/3/2024

Wednesday
1. Introduction
Rwanduz sits in the stunning Kurdistan Region of Iraq, close to the

Iranian border. Its landscape, filled with hills and valleys, gives it a

unique look. The story of Rwanduz's buildings starts with Wasta Rajab

Mustafa, who built a special house with an underground armory. This

began a mix of old and new traditions, like when Pashay Gawra offered

his sister's hand in marriage. As time passed, more buildings sprouted

up around Rajab's house, blending village and city life. Today, Rwanduz

keeps growing, mixing old ways with new materials, while still fitting in

with the land. Besides its buildings, Rwanduz is home to lots of different

plants and animals, adding to its beauty. It's a place where nature and

architecture work together in harmony.

1.1 Study background

Rwanduz, located in northeastern Iraq near the Iranian border, is

known for its diverse landscape of hills and valleys.(1)(2)(4) The town's

vernacular architecture, built with local materials and traditional

methods, reflects its rich history and cultural heritage.(5)(6) Led by

pioneering constructions like Wasta Rajab Mustafa's distinctive house,

Rwanduz's architecture symbolizes resilience and strength.(3) Over

time, these buildings have evolved while maintaining their connection

to the land, emphasizing harmony with nature.(5)(6) Understanding the

background of Rwanduz's vernacular architecture is crucial for

appreciating its cultural significance and guiding future preservation

efforts.

1.2 Significance
The significance of vernacular architecture in Rwanduz lies in its deep

connection to the land and its people. Built with materials found locally

and using traditional techniques, these houses reflect the history,

culture, and lifestyle of the region.

In Rwanduz, vernacular architecture tells a story. It all started with

Wasta Rajab Mustafa, who built a unique house with an underground

armory. This house became the heart of the town, symbolizing strength

and resilience. As the town grew, more houses were built around it,

blending rural and urban styles.

The architecture of Rwanduz isn't just about buildings; it's about

blending with the natural landscape. The houses fit perfectly with the

land, using its bumps and dips to their advantage. In the past, houses

were made mostly from mud and rocks, but now, new materials are

used while still keeping the old charm.

Vernacular architecture in Rwanduz isn't just about how things look; it's

about how they feel. It's about living in harmony with nature and

celebrating the unique beauty of the land. Through its buildings,

Rwanduz tells a story of resilience, adaptation, and a deep connection

to the land.

1.3 Research objectives and questions

Research Objective

Examine the significance of vernacular architecture in Rwanduz.

Explore the role of vernacular architecture in shaping the town's

cultural identity.

Investigate the contribution of vernacular architecture to

environmental sustainability.

Research Questions

1- How does vernacular architecture in Rwanduz contribute to the

preservation of cultural heritage?

2- In what ways does vernacular architecture promote environmental

harmony?

3- What implications does vernacular architecture have for the town's

identity?

2.Literature Review
2.1 Vernacular Architecture in Kurdistan
1. Kurdish Mudbrick House :A typical Kurdish house is made of sun-dried mudbricks, which have been a common
building material in the warmer, drier lowlands of Kurdistan for millennia. These houses feature thick mudbrick
walls, typically with small window openings to preserve heat in colder months. They are commonly found in
remote mountain villages like

Palangan Village in Iran and are designed to withstand the region's climatic conditions, providing insulation
against both cold winters and hot summers.(7)(8) [Figure 1][Figure 2]

2. Stone House in Tewélle:In the mountainous area of Kurdistan, particularly in towns like Tewélle, houses are
built using locally available stones and woods. The unique feature of Kurdish vernacular architecture in these
areas is the construction of stone walls without mortar, known as Wushke Kellek. These freestanding stone walls
are carefully constructed using irregularly shaped stones and reinforced with wooden planks horizontally or
vertically. The houses typically have two stories, with the ground floor used for common areas like livestock and
storage, while the upper floor serves as living quarters.(8)[Figure 3] [ Figure 4] [Figure 5] [Figure 6]

3. Cube-shaped Houses in Hawraman:In mountain villages like Hawraman, cube-shaped houses are built on the
slopes to catch the morning sun and preserve lower land for agriculture. These houses are organized to allow for
social interaction and gathering spaces while preserving thermal energy. The rooftops are built to withstand
heavy loads for occasional ritual ceremonies and public gatherings. The roof structures consist mainly of timber
arranged to distribute heavy loads to load-bearing stone walls, with layers of mud and daub for waterproofing
and durability.(8)[Figure 7] [Figure 8] [Figure 9]

different between these three types of vernacular architecture:

1. Materials Used:The Kurdish Mudbrick House primarily uses sun-dried mudbricks, while the Stone House in
Tewélle relies on locally available stones and woods. In contrast, Cube-shaped Houses in Hawraman may use a
combination of materials but are typically characterized by stone walls and timber roof structures.
 2. Construction Technique:The Kurdish Mudbrick House features thick mudbrick walls with mud mortar,
providing insulation against extreme temperatures. The Stone House in Tewélle utilizes dry stone walls
constructed without mortar, reinforcing them with wooden planks for structural integrity. Cube-shaped Houses
in Hawraman are built on slopes, utilizing stone walls and timber roof structures to withstand heavy loads and
preserve thermal energy.

3. Architectural Design:While all three types of vernacular architecture in Kurdistan prioritize functionality and
adaptation to the local climate, they exhibit distinct architectural designs. The Kurdish Mudbrick House may have
small window openings and thick walls for insulation. The Stone House in Tewélle showcases the unique
technique of dry stone wall construction, creating a rustic aesthetic. Cube-shaped Houses in Hawraman are
designed to optimize sunlight exposure and social interaction while blending with the natural landscape.

Figure 1: A view of Kurdish village Figure 2: Women sit on their rooftops in Palangan - . of
Palangan in iran in iran
Figure 3: schematic sketch of the lower and upper Figure 4: Schematic sketch detailing

Sections of the house in Tewélle floor plan of the primary living space within,

the upper section of the house in Tewélle.

Figure 5: rooftop view of the house over the valley, Figure 6: Alley road, town of Tewélle

town of Tewelle.
Figure 7: Cube-shaped houses of mountain village Figure 8: A man in kurdish traditional clothes

Hawraman looking into cube-shape houses - winter,hawraman

Figure 9: Ritual and Social Gathering on the rooftops of cube –

shaped houses of the people of hawrama

 2.2 Typological Studies Elsewhere
Introduction to Dogon Cliff Dwellings

The Dogon Cliff Dwellings are a series of traditional settlements located along the Bandiagara Escarpment in
Mali, West Africa. These dwellings are built into the cliffs of the escarpment and have been inhabited by the
Dogon people for centuries. The Dogon are known for their unique architectural heritage, which reflects their
deep cultural and spiritual connections to the landscape.

Construction Techniques and Materials

Dogon Cliff Dwellings are primarily constructed using local materials such as mud, stone, and thatch. The
buildings are built directly into the natural rock formations of the escarpment, utilizing the cliffs as a structural
foundation. Mud brick walls are reinforced with wooden beams and covered with a layer of plaster to protect
against erosion and weathering. Thatched roofs provide shelter from the elements while allowing for natural
ventilation.

Architectural Features and Layout

The architecture of Dogon Cliff Dwellings is characterized by its integration with the surrounding landscape and
its adaptation to the local environment. Buildings are often arranged in clusters along the cliff face, with
interconnected courtyards, alleyways, and terraced gardens. The layout of the dwellings reflects the social
organization of Dogon society, with distinct areas for living, storage, and communal activities.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

The Dogon Cliff Dwellings hold profound cultural and spiritual significance for the Dogon people. These
settlements are not only places of shelter but also serve as sacred sites where rituals, ceremonies, and
communal gatherings take place. The architecture of the dwellings is imbued with symbolic meaning, reflecting
Dogon cosmology, mythology, and religious beliefs.
Preservation and Conservation Efforts

The Dogon Cliff Dwellings are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are protected by national and
international conservation efforts. Initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Dogon heritage include
sustainable tourism, community-based conservation projects, and efforts to document and safeguard
traditional building techniques.

Introduction to Stilt Houses

Stilt houses are elevated dwellings constructed above the ground on stilts or pilings. This architectural form is
prevalent in regions of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and parts of Thailand and
Vietnam. Stilt houses are adapted to the tropical environment, offering protection against flooding, pests, and
providing natural ventilation.

Construction Techniques and Materials

Stilt houses are typically constructed using locally available materials such as bamboo, wood, or palm leaves. The
stilts are often made from sturdy timber or bamboo poles, anchored into the ground or water. The floors and
walls may be made from woven bamboo or wooden planks, while the roofs are commonly thatched with palm
leaves or other vegetation. These materials are lightweight, flexible, and readily available, making them ideal for
the construction of stilt houses.

Cultural Significance and Lifestyle

Stilt houses are more than just architectural structures; they are integral to the cultural identity and way of life of
many Southeast Asian communities. They serve as multi-functional spaces, providing shelter, storage, and social
gathering areas. The elevated position of stilt houses also reflects traditional beliefs related to spirituality,
protection from malevolent spirits, and respect for the natural environment.
Regional Variations

While stilt houses share common features across Southeast Asia, there are also regional variations in design and
construction techniques. For example:

- In the Philippines, the traditional "bahay kubo" features a steeply pitched roof and open sides for enhanced
ventilation.

- In Indonesia, stilt houses may have more closed-off walls to provide protection from monsoon rains.

Contemporary Challenges and Preservation Efforts

Despite their cultural significance, stilt houses face threats from urbanization, modernization, and environmental
degradation. Rapid urban development and changing lifestyles have led to the decline of traditional stilt house
communities in some areas.

However, there are ongoing efforts to preserve and promote traditional stilt house architecture through:

1. Heritage conservation initiatives

2. Community-based tourism

3. Sustainable development projects.

Introduction to Mud Brick Architecture in Yemen

Mud brick construction has been a cornerstone of Yemeni architecture for centuries, thanks to the abundance of
clay-rich soil in the area. This traditional building method involves shaping mud into bricks, drying them in the
sun, and then using them to construct walls, floors, and roofs. The resulting structures are not only
environmentally friendly but also provide excellent insulation against Yemen's harsh desert climate.
Shibam: The "Manhattan of the Desert"

Shibam, located in the Hadhramaut Governorate of Yemen, is famous for its impressive mud brick skyscrapers,
earning it the nickname "Manhattan of the Desert." These tall buildings, called "tower houses" or "mud
skyscrapers" locally, stand multiple stories high and create a stunning skyline against the desert backdrop.

Construction Techniques and Materials

The construction of mud brick houses in Shibam follows a detailed process:

1. Local artisans mix clay-rich soil with water to create a thick mud mixture.

2. They pour this mud mixture into molds to make uniform mud bricks.

3. After drying in the sun, these bricks are stacked and held together with a mud mortar. Sometimes, wooden
beams are added for extra support.

4. Finally, the walls are plastered with another layer of mud to protect them from weather damage.

Architectural Features and Design

The tower houses of Shibam have a unique architectural style that includes:

1 Narrow facades

2 Intricately carved wooden doors

3 Elaborate windows with decorative designs

Inside these houses, there are multiple levels serving different purposes such as living spaces, storage areas, and
communal rooms. The layout of the houses is carefully planned to maximize airflow and natural light while
maintaining structural strength.
Cultural Significance and Heritage Preservation

The mud brick houses of Shibam are not just impressive structures - they also hold great cultural and historical
importance. They serve as a tangible connection to Yemen's diverse heritage and traditional building methods.

However, these buildings are vulnerable to environmental factors like erosion and decay, as well as political
instability in the region. That's why there are ongoing efforts to preserve and safeguard these unique landmarks,
including UNESCO's recognition of Shibam as a World Heritage Site.
References
1. (1)https://artsandculture.google.com/entity/rawanduz/m0bg725?hl=en
2. http://bot.gov.krd/erbilprovince/rawanduz#:~:text=Rawanduz%20City%20The%20city%20of,500%20met
ers%20above%20sea%20level
3. (3) https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/27681-Rawanduz-cannon,-asymbol-of-Kurdish-strength
4. (4) https://www.hawlergov.org/app/en/node/389
5. (5) Visits to rwanduz by group members
6. (6) A member of our group has familial roots within the local community of Rwanduz.
7. (7) https://www.thecandytrail.com/palangan-kurdish-village-iran/
8. (8) ARO.10148-VOL5.No1.2017.ISSUE08-PP9-19%20(1).pdf
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14. "The Traditional Architecture of Indonesia" by Made Wijaya
15. "Philippine Ancestral Houses" by Raul Rafael Rodrigo
16. "Traditional Thai Houses: A Cultural History" by M.R. Narisa Chakrabongse
17. Wijaya, Made. The Traditional Architecture of Indonesia. Singapore: Archipelago Press, 1990.
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19. Chakrabongse, M.R. Narisa. Traditional Thai Houses: A Cultural History. Bangkok: River Books, 2000.
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