Case Study
: Modern Challenges and Solutions in Gurage Vernacular Architecture
1. Introduction
Gurage vernacular architecture is a unique example of Ethiopian tradi-
tional building methods,
characterized by circular houses (Goye) made from local materials like
mud, wood, and thatch. These homes areknown for their strong com-
munal construction process and adaptation to local environmental
conditions.
However, rapid urbanization, environmental changes, and socio-eco-
nomic factors are leading to a decline in thetraditional construction
techniques. This case study analyzes the challenges faced by Gurage
vernacular houses and proposes sustainable solutions for their preser-
vation and adaptation to modern needs.
case example
case :Amora Meda village
A Gurage village settlement is known as a ‘qaya1’. Settlements are usual-
ly found along a continuous line, the ‘jefora’ 2, which is the principle
avenue of the area. This avenue is quite wide and uniform throughout its
length, and not infrequently has a large zegba3 tree somewhere in the
middle where the elders often sit to discuss matters of common interest.
In all villages, each homestead may consist of one, two, or three houses,
carefully arranged in the settlement pattern. (Seid, 2013). The village is
clustered under defined families far from generations.
Construction
The actual construction of a Gurage vernacular architecture starts with consider-
able time for collection of construction materials. Formerly the building materi-
als were found in the compound but now due to increase in density of settlement
forced the men to cash it . The amount of time involved from the time the owner
decides to actual begins may be as long as three yearsdepending on the facility
with which he oobtains the necessary materials. Construction time may only
consume one month,and is usually begun after planting seasons,which is just
before the principal rainy season, or just after the rains. Labour is supplied by
village workers,who reciprocate voluntarily each time a local resident wishes to
build house. The number of workers involved in the construction of a house
ranges from five to thirty. (Seid, 2013)
Sample 1
Spaces and functions
The interior has two major spatial definition defined by timber partition which is located
opposite to the entrance, after the central structural post (Echeba). The bigger division
space is used for sleeping, setting, coffee ceremonies and dinning. Right in front to the
entrance door central fire space or smoke are; gurdet; is found. It is not for daily cooking
but to warm house. On the other side of the partition; two major spaces exist; cattle tie area
and storage space. Cattle stalls space is called ‘gadar’ which is simple posts reinforced by
horizontal wooden structures. At the opposite of ‘gadar’ there is storage area which is built
with thinner eucalyptus (fig 4.14) posts in a layered manner.
interior Partition Storage Gurdet Gadar- Cattle tie space
Goye house of Sample 1 Section of Goye
Other building in a compound are built for children and guests.‘Zeger’ house is either circular or rectangular in shape one room
which is used as cooking and storage. It is constructed with mud and thatch roof or CSI roof in recent trend which is named as
‘Korkoro bet’. The change in building material is granted as expression of status and constructed with hired manpower and done
in a shorter time than the traditional circular houses. The functions support the main house like, storage, children sleeping and
studying room.
Identified Problems
Several factors are threatening the survival of Gurage vernacular architecture:
Material Availability: Traditional materials such as thatch and specific
types of wood arebecoming scarce due to deforestation
and increased agricultural expansion. Modern materials like cement and
corrugated metal sheets(CSI) are replacing them.
Modernization Pressure: Younger generations are shifting towards 'Korkoro
Bet' (metal-roofedrectangular houses), considering them more durable and
prestigious. This shift is reducing the number of new traditional housesbeing
built.
climate Adaptation Issues: The changing climate has brought unpredictable
rainfall and extreme temperature variations, making traditional houses less
efficient in terms of insulation. Thatched roofs require frequent maintenance, Harar house
adding to the cost.. ClimatClimate-
Loss of Communal Building Culture: Traditional Gurage houses were historically built through collective labor,
where the entire community participated. However, economic shifts and urban migration are leading to the declin of
this practice.
Impact of Infrastructure Development: Road expansions and urbanization are cutting through traditional settle-
ments, forcing homeowners to adapt their structures to urban settings.
Solutions Implementeds
To address these challenges, various solutions have been implemented
Sustainable Material Alternatives: Instead of traditional thatch, some homeowners are using improved thatching
techniques with longer-lasting treatments. Others are integrating bamboo and stabilized mud bricks for greater dura-
bility.
Hybrid Construction Techniques: Some residents are adopting a mix of traditional and modern techniques by keep-
ing the circular form of the Goye while incorporating reinforced mud walls and metal roofing with insulation layers.
Hybrid Construction Techniques: Some residents are adopting a mix of traditional and modern techniques by keep-
ing the circular form of the Goye while incorporating reinforced mud walls and metal roofing with insulation
layers.
Policy Advocacy: Some architectural experts are pushing for local policies that incentivize thepreservation of
vernacular
The stone-cement base
1. Protection Against Floods and Moisture
Elevation & Drainage: The raised stone-cement base lifts the house above ground
level, preventing water from entering during heavy rains or floods.
Moisture Barrier: Cement acts as a waterproofing layer, preventing water from
seeping into mud or wooden walls, which can weaken them over time.
Foundation Stability: The weight and compactness of stone and cement provide a
strong foundation, ensuring the structure doesn’t shift or erode in wet condi-
tions.
2. Termite Resistance
Barrier Against Termites: Termites usually attack wooden elements of a house. A
stone-cement base creates a tough, impenetrable layer, preventing termites from
reaching the wooden structure above.
Reduced Organic Material Contact: Traditionally, houses built directly on the
ground had more exposure to termites. By using a stone-cement base, the risk is
significantly reduced.
Conclusion and Recommendations
The study of Gurage vernacular architecture highlights the importance of balancing cultural preservation with moderniza-
tion. While modernization is inevitable, integrating traditional building wisdom with modern materials can ensure sus-
tainability
Implications
The existence vernacular house are visible but are aged. Currentlythe vernacular house types are not constructed, due
to lack of building material, lack of skilled manpower, and its difficulties in the construction techniques.
Villages closer to highways are transforming due to little influence of developments in the rural town. Investors of water
factory and flower factory are activating the site. This is beginning to influence both the settlement and compounds.
Future development may shift the type of houses to be built from vernacular to currently on going CSI roofed houses
more and more.
