TRANSFORMATION OF TRADITIONAL TO CONTEMPORARY RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE OF KERALA -A CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

Traditional architecture of Kerala like most of the other similar examples of the world developed based on the needs of the users and the living conditions in the region. In many developing countries, a drastic change in architecture took place towards the middle of the 20th century. The change was so rapid, that the traditional design systems that were followed till time were replaced with modern style, with no means of adaptation. Thus, the local architectural forms, that have been responding to the physical and cultural needs of the people for thousands of years seems to be neglected. The environment that necessitated the traditional architecture has changed and does not exist today. The houses which still survive can be conserved and maintained. Most of the traditional houses are being transformed from a common archetype to accommodate the modern facilities. Though many aspects of the traditional houses were best in its context, it is difficult to accommodate the modern living styles in a traditional way. Also, the new generation is being attracted to the easy availability of all the amenities of the modern hi-tech age. In most of the developing countries, the contemporary buildings seem to be a failure to the local conditions because the transferred technology and the imported concepts do not meet the physical and physiological needs. Moreover, the mindless copying of the new concepts without any change is creating negative results with respect to the region�â� � s ancient social, environmental and cultural values. The desirable architecture for the region shall be one that is evolved out of the identification and establishment of continuity with the past.