Revitalising Indigenous Housing Knowledge for a Sustainable Built Environment: A South African Case Study

Abstract

Indigenous housing traditions in South Africa reflect centuries of environmental adaptation, material efficiency and socio-cultural cohesion—principles increasingly recognised as essential to a sustainable built environment. Yet these traditions have been progressively marginalised through colonial disruption, rapid urbanisation and policy frameworks that prioritise Western construction technologies. This paper investigates how the documentation and revitalisation of indigenous housing design practices can contribute to sustainable, culturally grounded and inclusive development pathways. Using an interpretivist qualitative approach supported by document analysis, the study synthesises insights from academic literature, government policy texts and contemporary project case studies. The findings indicate that indigenous housing demonstrates sophisticated ecological intelligence through responsive siting, passive environmental control, and the use of locally sourced, low-carbon materials. The erosion of these practices is attributed to institutional fragmentation, limited policy recognition and the absence of indigenous knowledge within architectural and engineering curricula. The paper argues that systematic documentation, curriculum transformation and integrated policy support are essential for embedding indigenous design principles into modern practice. Revitalising these traditions presents an opportunity to advance sustainability, strengthen cultural identity and promote more resilient built environments in South Africa.

Keywords: Indigenous Architecture, Sustainability, Housing Policy, Cultural Knowledge

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1007896