Vernacular architecture is broadly defined as encompassing dwellings and structures built by a community, using local materials and traditional techniques, to meet their specific needs and reflect their environment and way of life. It is often, quite uncritically, described as architecture produced by ‘natives’, or emerging from the practical needs and traditions of a community, rather than being a result of a systematic design thinking process. However, examples of ‘vernacular architecture’ from across the world have demonstrated that this kind of built environment is often the result of the amalgamation of various cultural influences and emerges from the sophisticated understanding of materials, structure, and craft. The domestic nature of much of this architecture, coupled with a colonial gaze, has historically Othered it and overlooked the valuable lessons it may provide in the fragile and unpredictable world we live in.

This conference, jointly hosted by Oxford Brookes University, UK, and CEPT University, Ahmedabad, India, seeks to explore and rethink the meaning of vernacular architecture in a decolonised world. The conference is expected to produce a critical publication on the subject that will be edited by experts appointed by both organising institutions.

Submission Details

Abstract submission: A 250-word abstract with supporting 1 image (optional) must be submitted along with a two-line biography and a link to the CV that includes a bibliography of previously authored content. Links to three publications must also be provided. The selection of the abstract will be done on the basis of the quality of writing and research, and relevance to the theme. Profile of the author and previous works may be considered at the discretion of the selection committee.

Paper Submission and Publication: 10 authors from the conference will be invited to write a paper for subsequent publication. Details of the submission will be shared by the editors at the time.

Please note that the selection of an abstract is only for the conference and does not assure participation in publication.

Timeline:
Last Date to Submit Abstracts: 15 October 2025
Communication of Selection for Conference: 15 November 2025 onwards
Final Schedule Announcement: 15 December 2025
Conference Dates: 26 – 27 February 2026
Last Date to Submit Final Papers (for Selected Presenters): 30 April 2026
Editing and Preparation of Final Manuscript for Publication: April – December 2026

Submission Deadline: October 15, 2025

To submit your abstracts, click here