ABSTRACT
The first challenge to encounter, when addressing a comprehensive understanding of the vernacular architecture problematic, is to try to define the etymological sense and the epistemological mean of the term. This paper intends to approach the evolution of the ‘vernacular architecture’ designation, and to reflect about its current conceptual application, considering its most substantial ideological divergences over time. The study was based on the recognition of two fundamental phases: the autonomy and the consolidation of the field of study, where the development of the object’s differentiation was determinant. Consequently, it will address a comprehensive rehearsal for a terminology specification, according to the most disseminated descriptions and their corresponding authors. Finally it will open the discussion for the concept revision, due to the present socio-cultural context, focusing on the influence of the industrialization and globalization processes, the changes on the notion of local production, and the suitability to use natural materials from the local environment.
