Includes bibliographical references and index.

The study of 'vernacular architecture' is growing in many parts of the world as the importance of indigenous traditions in buildings is increasingly recognized. In this collection of conference papers given by Paul Oliver, consideration is given to the cultural aspects of vernacular architecture, including economies, technologies, inherited and transmitted skill, social and family structures, physical needs and belief systems. Problems of post-disaster housing and the questions of conservation and the continuity of vernacular architecture in the new century are among the other aspects examined by Paul Oliver, which have arisen from his field work in all continents. -- Back Cover.