The traditional forms of vernacular architecture: A Mexican project in the Sierra Madre Oriental

Abstract

The appreciation of vernacular patrimony is an act of justice and recognition of the dignity of indigenous peoples. It is a cultural legacy that is subject to strong economic and social depredations. The present article specifies some theoretical issues to define certain aspects of these problems. To provide a viable alternative for recovery, an architectural project is proposed for Sierra Alta, in the foothills of the Mexican Sierra Madre Oriental. The proposal has two components: the creation of community spaces including a meeting room, shared laundry rooms and a self-build workshop; and the possibility of improving the same vernacular dwellings, through sanitation measures, expansion and diversification of existing spaces. The project´s formal support comes from the incorporation of everyday ancestral objects. It is intended that through the self-management and self-assessment of these communities, the project will be open and democratic in nature.