Versus project: lessons from vernacular heritage for sustainable architecture

This paper presents VerSus project's operative approach and final outcomes. VerSus research method was based on the identification of strategies and principles within vernacular heritage, in order to define a conceptual approach for sustainable architectural design. Based on the review of literature and the analysis and interpretation of case studies from vernacular and contemporary architecture, data was collected and a research method was developed to provide operative knowledge that could be integrated on design studio processes, in order to improve the sustainability of contemporary architecture, at environmental, social and economical levels. This paper will present VerSus project final results, based on the scientific research and dissemination activities.