Perceptions of vernacular architecture

Vernacular theory is of one accord with regard to the significance that it holds to positively impact communities world-wide. However, cultures globally inhabit social environments far different from what is culturally considered a vernacular townscape. It is therefore essential that those involved in the built environment explore the role of undocumented psychological perceptions within communities. People often associate the socio-economic status of people in their community with the building material of their houses. Furthermore do people conform to "keep up with the Joneses" by living up to the norm in their built environment. The purpose of the paper is to support the use of human perceptual psychology as an asset to existing vernacular strategies to encourage vernacular heritage worldwide. Klineberg's understanding of social psychology is analysed with in a vernacular construct, whereby perceptions are linked to both the behaviour of a culture as well as the individual, resulting in social behaviour through imitation and conformity. The understanding and impact of culture and social values are considered, together with the relationship that exists between variables both socially and individually.