Tenth International Conference on The Constructed Environment

Abstract

Across the world, indigenous communities are known for their labor-intensive yet unique craft production since time immemorial and one such is Sericulture. The associated knowledge of this craft is passed through generations and is documented in distinctively finished silk. For instance, in Umden, Meghalaya, India, a rare sustainable tradition of sericulture is practiced by the Khasi tribe, which does not kill silkworms and is instrumental in shaping their architecture. However, such traditional practices are becoming extinct as the machine-spun fabric is fast replacing them. In addition, modern production is environmentally degrading and has a detrimental effect on the associated built and intangible culture and the livelihood of the communities. The situation is further worsened due to the lack of integrated built environments and economic models that combine all the processes at one place which could ensure future viability. Specifically for the Khasi tribe, this sublime relationship between sericulture and architecture is unexplored and can provide insightful knowledge with regards to sustainable practices. In light of this, the research focuses on analyzing the sericulture processes with respect to their built, environmental, economic and cultural impact. Furthermore, various existing traditional/ vernacular models were compared for spatial layout and quality, material application, resource consumption, etc., to draw recommendations as to what may be adopted, interpreted and retained to achieve the best possible combinations. The study concludes with probable recommendations ensuring self-sustainability, sensitive design measures; which shall facilitate rethinking in making integrated architectural models catering to the present along with a resilient future.