Issues of conservation and adaptation in protecting Kashmir’s vernacular heritage

Abstract

The vernacular architecture of Kashmir represents a traditional knowledge base that has evolved in response to the climatic conditions, the traditional lifestyle of the residents, and various natural threats in the form of earthquake, flood etc., affecting the region. Yet, our advance into the ‘modern scientific age’ has witnessed an eroding of this rich heritage. The paper examines the salient features of Kashmir’s vernacular architecture, the challenges facing it and the steps that have been taken to protect it, including how to adapt it to contemporary life.

Keywords:

• Kashmir
• Vernacular architecture
• Heritage
• INTACH J&K
• Conservation