Vernacular architecture sustainability principles: A case study of Bosnian stone houses in Idbar village

Abstract

To ensure architecture built on sustainable principles and safeguard cultural heritage exposed to destruction are challenges Bosnia is facing in the modern age. The case study of this research, Bosnian village Idbar, with its important historical, traditional and architectural values, showcases the challenges mentioned above, and examines whether Bosnian vernacular rural architecture follows criteria of sustainability and was built on hypothesis that Bosnian vernacular rural architecture fulfills sustainability principles. It was addressed by analytical historical method with auxiliary method of case study which incorporated recordings of site conditions. Sustainability classification of cluster dwelling units in Idbar was examined in accordance to the conventionally accepted sustainability principles: minimal start up environmental impact, contextualization, adaptability, water usage sustainability, energy efficiency, self-conserving, and biodegradability. The research established set of evaluation principles and criteria concerning sustainability of vernacular architecture that can be universally applicable in Bosnia.