Vernacular & Transnational Urbanism
Architecture is a form of art that combines humans from different
societies, religions, race and ethnicity. Although it is expressed and built in
different forms (it is one language we could all speak). Henry Glassie and Eric Darton both express the different notions of Transnational and Vernacular architecture.
In Henry Glassie’s, Vernacular Architecture, the practice of vernacular urbanism is described to be rich in culture, history, diversity, stories, and traditions. However, only those who have experienced such connections could truly appreciate the beauty of these “neglected” master pieces. Vernacular buildings not only derive from local materials and people but also from producers/consumers relationships that are designed to accommodate everyday life and needs. Such relationships make the process of building more meaningful as it begins with the idea of one person, but requires more than one to build. The land on which these buildings are built on become a part of the story the architecture illustrates. Overall, Glassie believes architecture is the canvas of the mind as it gives a purpose to thoughts that later come to life.
On the contrary, Eric Darton’s discusses a global form of urbanism in “The Janus Face of Architectural Terrorism”. The term transnational urbanism is depicted as a platform that connects all cities around the world. Diversity is formed through connecting these cities, ideas, beliefs, societies, and characteristics. Darton uses The World Trade Center (WTC) and two individuals (from the same upbringing and professions), to demonstrate the connection that exists between the men, although they chose opposing sides of architecture. One architect wanted to build The WTC up, the other wanted to build it down. Through this metaphor one could connect transnational urbanism to the story as they both show forms of connection from different cities, Although beliefs are not the same. vernacular and transnational urbanism have various similarities and differences. Both forms relate to culture as well as the relationships and interactions made amongst humans. In addition, they both incorporate their beliefs and upbringings to architecture. Lastly, one could not exist without the other. One must first appreciate history, cultures, and customs of architecture before they could value modern forms. After all, without the old ways, new ways could not be formed.
Mumbai is no stranger to transnationalism as there are currently more skyscrapers under construction in Mumbai than anywhere else in the world. Many of these structures are unregulated, adding to over 2500 high-rise buildings that already exist in the city.. Most of the skyscrapers are residential (even the richest man in the city lives in a skyscraper). Various skyscrapers are constructed by international companies in Denmark and Italy. The architecture of the new skyscrapers do not resemble Indian culture as they migrated European architecture to India, transforming this country in the process.
However, the slums in Mumbai are very prevalent, as they are part of the city's vernacular urbanism. They have a very diverse population as many residents migrate from rural regions. The slums are usually divided between the industrial part and the residential part. It's most common businesses are pottery, leather, plastic and steel. (learn more about Vernacular and transnational urbanism in my Slums & Evil Paradises pages).
"This is at once a city of paradise and of hell. But Mumbai's paradox is that it is often the dwellers of paradise who feel themselves in hell and the dwellers of hell who feel themselves in paradise" (Giridharadas, NYTimes 2008.)
