Vernacular Architecture, KPR Institute Engineering and Technology, Autonomous Engineering Institution, Coimbatore, India

The Department of Civil Engineering, KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology, organized a One Credit Course on “Vernacular Architecture” on 06 and 07 October 2026 at III Civil Lecture Hall, Bhaskara Block.

The course was conducted to provide students with a deeper understanding of vernacular architecture, traditional building practices, climate-responsive design and the use of locally available materials and construction techniques. The programme aimed to connect traditional architectural knowledge with contemporary concepts of sustainability and environmentally responsible construction.

The sessions were handled by Er. J. Vijayakumar, Proprietor, SKV Construction, Coimbatore, a Civil Engineer, Consultant and Practicing Engineer with extensive experience in construction, project execution and sustainable building practices. He has successfully completed more than 650 projects across Tamil Nadu and South India, including 26 earthen building projects.

During the course, Er. Vijayakumar shared his extensive practical experience in vernacular and earthen architecture, highlighting how traditional buildings respond naturally to their local climate, materials, culture and environmental conditions. Students were introduced to the importance of understanding traditional wisdom and adapting it to modern sustainable construction.

The sessions covered important aspects such as the concept and characteristics of vernacular architecture, climate-responsive traditional buildings, locally available materials, traditional construction techniques, earthen architecture and the relationship between people, buildings and nature. Practical examples from the resource person's professional experience helped students understand the application of these principles in real-world construction.

The interactive sessions encouraged students to observe and analyse traditional buildings from an engineering and architectural perspective. The resource person also emphasized the importance of integrating traditional wisdom, modern engineering, innovation and sustainability to create buildings that contribute to human comfort and environmental well-being.