ABSTRACT

These definitions indicate that vernacular buildings are highly responsive geographically in terms of the materials from which they are constructed and in respect of their design. Materials were locally sourced and designs were inspired by those materials. For example, the Hebridean blackhouses used driftwood from shipwrecks or whale bones for their roof construction due to their strong connection with the sea (Walker and McGregor, 19 96b). Styles therefore vary considerably not only across the United Kingdom but within much more limited regional districts.