What Does Vernacular Architecture Mean?

Blogged By JobinaMah

Many people have been asking me what "vernacular" meant, I thought I'd go ahead and give you a simplified explanation of it in general. Hope this helps all of you get a better understanding of what I'm looking into!

Vernacular Architecture. Natural, simple, indigenous, traditional structures made of local materials, following well-tried forms and types, normally considered in three categories: agricultural (barns, farms, etc.), domestic, and industrial (foundries, potteries, smithies, etc.). It is also greatly influenced by the culture of its inhabitants and surrounding environment.

(JAMES STEVENS CURL. "vernacular architecture" A Dictionary of Architecture and Landscape - Architecture. 2000. Encyclopedia. 27 Mar. 2010)