Reading the vernacular architecture through the concepts of "place" and tectonics: The example of the built rural environment of Eastern Black Sea region

This thesis proposes a new "reading" attempt that examines vernacular architecture in the built rural environment through the concepts of "place" and "tectonics" together and suggests its conceptual framework. The theoretical framework consists of evaluating studies on vernacular architecture, which is the manifestation of the adaptation of the local community to the rural environment, in conjunction with the concepts of "place" and "tectonics". The concept of "place" is emphasized to highlight the interaction between vernacular architecture and humans, while the concept of "tectonics" is focused on to discuss the importance of technique and craftsmanship. Within the conceptual framework, the concept of "tectonic integrity" is proposed to question the connection between vernacular architecture and the concepts of "place" and "tectonics". In this context, the selection of the most suitable area for vernacular structures is identified as the first criterion, the manner and levels of interaction between these structures and the ground are examined as the second criterion known as "intervention to the site", and the observation of construction techniques and design principles is identified as the third criterion known as "pattern language". The Eastern Black Sea Region has been selected as the study area to test these criteria. Within the scope of the thesis, the rural built environment components were selected based on the "terrace" and "bridge" elements that make the natural environment inhabitable and accessible, as well as the "serender" structure that provides economic benefits for storing food. These components were chosen for their vernacular solutions specific to the "place" and the diversity they offer in terms of "tectonic integrity". Local craftsmen were consulted as a source of information to evaluate the connection established between "place" and tectonics based on local knowledge. In the context of vernacular architecture, where written data is limited, oral history was used as a method to access information and sources. As a result, in the thesis, emphasis is placed on the importance of preserving the endangered stock of vernacular architectural structures and the sustainability of the experience and knowledge that constitute them, especially in the Anthropocene era. It is highlighted that even today, it is possible to produce "vernacular architecture" that is in harmony with the "place" and to resist environmental issues by considering the proposed criteria of "tectonic integrity".