Abstract:

Regional elements are replaced by global ones due to the increase in intercultural interaction and communication in recent years. Architecture is an area where those changes are evident. The form and concept of architectural structures used to be based on local materials, geographical conditions, and cultural norms. However, today, architecture has adopted a common language worldwide due to the multitude of options, advances in technology, and changes in cultural characteristics. However, there are some architectural structures made of local materials and construction techniques. This paper focused on the use of local materials in modern building designs. This study first addressed local materials in the contemporary architectural environment and then analyzed Peter Zumthor’s five buildings constructed with local materials and techniques. Local materials play an essential role in architectural identity because they have memory and spirituality. They also allow users to have a variety of perceptual experiences. Local materials undergo reinterpretation and meet the design perspective of today, combining traditional with modern and resulting in authentic architectural structures with a particular identity.

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