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Features of the vernacular architecture of portable dwellings of Northern people in the context of ethno-cultural heritage preservation

https://doi.org/10.31660/2782-232X-2026-2-8-32

EDN: OZUUHC

Abstract

Portable dwellings of indigenous peoples of the North (Nenets, Nganasans, and Dolgans) have been investigated using the multidisciplinary approach, revealing the correlation between vernacular architectural features and the natural-climatic conditions, economic structures, and cultural and symbolic representations of the ethnic groups studied. This study not only makes a significant contribution to the understanding and preservation of unique ethno-cultural heritage, but also allows for the consideration of ethno-architectural experience in adapting traditional architectural solutions to contemporary challenges, particularly in the spheres of tourism and education. This approach corresponds with the stated priorities of the Russian Federation, concerning the preservation of the nation’s historical and cultural heritage. Research results: 1) a typological analysis of the dwellings of indigenous peoples of the North was conducted; 2) the correlation between ethno-architectural solutions and the climatic conditions and landscape of their habitats, as well as the cultural and daily life traditions of the studied people, was established; 3) the integration of vernacular architectural principles from the portable dwellings of Northern peoples into contemporary educational (e. g., creating educational platforms based on nomadic camps) and tourism (e. g., developing ethnic tourism) infrastructure was proposed. The authors envision the following areas for future research: analyzing the population of indigenous peoples of the North and its demographic dynamics over the next 15 years; modeling the impact of environmental and socio-economic changes on the morphological development of portable dwellings of Northern peoples using artificial intelligence; analyzing the evolution of vernacular architecture; and analyzing ethno-architecture within the bionic approach.

About the Authors

Yu. E. Chmir
Novosibirsk State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Novosibirsk
Russian Federation

Yulia E. Chmir, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Urban Planning and Urban Economy

 



D. V. Karelin
Novosibirsk State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Novosibirsk
Russian Federation

Dmitry V. Karelin, Cand. Sci. (Architecture), Associate Professor, Head of the Department of Urban Planning and Urban Economy

 



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Chmir Yu.E., Karelin D.V. Features of the vernacular architecture of portable dwellings of Northern people in the context of ethno-cultural heritage preservation. Architecture, Construction, Transport. 2026;6(2):8-32. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.31660/2782-232X-2026-2-8-32. EDN: OZUUHC

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ISSN 2782-232X (Print)
ISSN 2713-0770 (Online)