Indigeniuos Construction Systems of Hill Architecture: A Case of Chamba District, Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

Habitation on hill side has a long history in humankind. Hill architecture is simply building on hills or dealing with the natural slopes and conditions of the terrain. Hills provide natural slope as well it challenges the architecture to be resilient rather than dominating to withstand the forces. Often hill side provides colder climatic conditions, harsh in many cases. Yet, humans have found natural ways to resist the natural forces and thrive in challenging conditions. Tradition or traditional art of building houses has passed on many generations with the experiences of past and present and probable prediction of future. It is a way to adapt to the conditions and create spaces that are interactive and human friendly. The current scenarios have changed substantially though, the modern technological advancements in materials and construction trends has overpowered the tradition-built masses. However, the modern architecture has often failed in such regions whereas the older ones have stood the ground. It is important to understand the original form that has evolved over time with experiences and understanding of various aspects. This paper tries to explore such traditional architecture, the space making to formulate natural spaces and comparison of both types, modern architecture and traditional architecture style to come to possible conclusion as what is more feasible and appropriate through materials, construction techniques, climate and soon.