“Buildings, like poems and rituals, realize culture”. - Henry Glassie
Vernacular Urbanism
According to Henry Glassie’s Vernacular Archietecure, vernacular urbanism is based on the structural design that connects both human beings and construction together. These buildings embrace culture, ancestry, space, earth, and the architects’ implementation of their personal life experiences. Many creations of vernacular urbanism are neglected by society unless they become touristic sites. This form of architecture is based solely on the history of its environment. It is a mixture of both skill and culture association because the architect himself is a part of society. Vernacular architecture allows the city to understand who they are as a community.
Transnational Urbanism
Transnational urbanism is based on power, economics, politics, and real estate as stated in Eric Darton’s chapter "The Janus Face of Architectural Terrorism". This form of architecture neglects societies culture and models the luxurious global culture. Transnational creations limit the builder’s creativity and human connection.
City Centre
• Built 2004-2012
• 561 ft
• 37 floors (10 for parking)
• An automated car parking system
• Helipad on the roof
• State-of-the-art office spaces and restaurants
Contrast
Vernacular urbanism is based on a local design whereas transnational urbanism is global. Vernacular construction uses local materials and embraces local culture. Transnational manufacturing is based on transporting materials. Darton's version of The World Trade Center (WTC) topples over the city, where human existence is unable to be seen. On the contrary, Glassie enforces the importance of human connection to architecture. The WTC was supposed to symbolize world peace and yet it brought America the exact opposite. Vernacular structures embody humanity and their way of life. As Darton explains, The WTC ruled out safety precautions needed for humans to escape emergencies. This building was not made for people; it was made for finance and the government.
Local & Global Examination in Dhaka
In Dhaka, there is a constant battle between vernacular and transnational urbanism, as the people fight for their rights to occupy the city. Dhaka's largest slum, Karail countionously faces forced evictions due to court orders that mandate the removal of illegal structures near the upscale Gulshan neighborhood. Although, the slums embrace Dhaka's true culture, they are demolished in order to beautify affluent communities that disconnect humanity.