BC'S VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE: LOCAL SOLUTIONS TO LOCAL NEEDS
- Monica Braun
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Vernacular architecture is about function and place – buildings created using local materials, shaped by BC's unique landscapes, climate, and culture. These buildings aren’t designed by famous architects; they evolve naturally, responding to the needs of the people who live in them and the environment they’re built in. For British Columbia, that means homes built to handle rain, rugged coastlines, dense forests, and mountainous terrain. You'll be surprised to find that quite a few of the buildings listed on Chilliwack's Heritage Interest Inventory are identified as Vernacular in style.
But long before settlers arrived, Indigenous communities in BC developed ingenious structures that reflected their deep connection to the land.
Coastal Longhouses: On the West Coast, Indigenous peoples such as the Coast Salish and Haida built longhouses using cedar planks. These large, communal structures were sturdy, weather-resistant, and designed to last, showcasing the versatility of BC’s abundant forests.
Pit Houses: In the Interior, the Secwépemc and other nations built pit houses (or kekulis), partially underground shelters that provided insulation during harsh winters and cool relief in summer.
As European settlers arrived in the 19th century, they brought their own building traditions but quickly adapted to BC’s rugged landscapes and climate.
Log Cabins: In heavily forested areas, settlers built log cabins using the timber around them. These simple, durable homes could withstand BC’s rainy conditions and were quick to assemble.
West Coast Farmhouses: In rural communities, farmhouses often featured steep roofs to shed rain and wide porches for shelter. The use of local wood became a hallmark of these practical, no-fuss homes.
These designs weren’t just practical; they were sustainable, using local resources with minimal impact on the environment.
Fast forward to the 20th century, and BC’s urban areas saw their own version of vernacular architecture: the Vancouver Special. Popular from the 1960s to the 1980s, these boxy, two-story homes were designed to maximize space on narrow city lots. Built quickly and affordably, Vancouver Specials reflect the needs of a booming population and the practical mindset of the time.
While not universally loved, they’ve become a quirky, nostalgic symbol of Vancouver’s urban history. Today, many have been renovated to suit modern tastes while retaining their original character.
Click HERE to watch a video on the Vancouver Special.
Vernacular architecture is all about working with what you have and creating homes that make sense for where you live. It’s practical, sustainable, and often full of character! Next time you see a historic longhouse or a retro Vancouver Special, take a moment to appreciate its story. It’s not just a building – it’s a reflection of BC’s people, environment, and timeless wisdom for living well in the place they call home.
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