The Role of Timber in Kerala Vernacular Architecture

The word ‘Vernacular’ means ‘native’. Vernacular architecture is the native science of building. The vernacular architecture in general refers to the informal construction of structures through traditional construction methods by local builders without using the services of a professional architect. The builders of this structure are untrained in formal architectural design process, but their work reflects the rich diversity of India’s climate, locally available material and the intricate variation in social custom and craftsman. Nalukettu ‘the courtyard type’, represents the traditional building form of Kerala where the superstructure and roof were completely constructed of wood.

Kerala ‘the Gods own country’ is blessed with its natural resources and rich cultural heritage. The geographical, political, cultural and economic factors have influenced the evolution of Kerala architecture. Timber was used as an embellishment in the construction in erstwhile Travancore. Timber being an organic material, man has a natural affinity towards it. Its texture, warmth of colour, ease of workability and high strength to weight ratio have made it a most important building material for vernacular construction. ‘Taccusāstra’, the building science prevalent in the region was responsible for the structural stability and decorative elegance of the timber buildings. Selection of the tree, felling, and seasoning was an important criterion in the past. The Knowledge acquired was passed on through generations. 

In the past, forests in Kerala covered more than 1/3 of the land area. In a state like Kerala, forests form the most important ‘renewable’ natural resources which have to be utilized to the best of its advantage. Wood forms the most important forest raw material in Kerala which is mainly used for construction purposes. Some of the important timbers commonly used for construction purpose are Teak (Tectona grandis), Venga (Petrocarpus Marsupium), Thembavu (Terminalia Tomentosa), Maruthy (Terminalia Paniculata), Thampakam (Hopea parvoflora), Unnom (Grewia teliaefolia), Aini (Artocarpus hirsutus), Jack (Artocarpus heterophyllus), Punna (Calophylum tomentosum) etc. Teak is available in plenty in the Southern tropical moist deciduous forests and Tropical dry deciduous forests of Kerala. Timber construction is most evidently seen in Kottayam, Alappuzha and Pathanamthitta districts of Kerala. 

Dr.Sheeja KP, Principal, DCSAAD Trivandrum