Vernacular housing and liveability in southern Indian villages: a comparative study of traditional and contemporary housing quality in Ravanasamudram

Traditional vernacular architecture in Asian developing countries offers valuable climate-responsive and community-oriented strategies for sustainable development. This study examines housing typologies and liveability in Ravanasamudram, Southern Tamil Nadu, India, comparing vernacular and contemporary houses through architectural documentation, material assessment, resident surveys and EnergyPlus simulations. Data from 45 households (25 vernacular and 20 contemporary) assessed thermal comfort, social cohesion, functional flexibility, resource efficiency and cultural sustainability. Vernacular houses recorded higher resident satisfaction with thermal comfort (68% versus 42%), stronger community engagement (78% versus 55%) and 45% lower cooling costs. Contemporary houses provided better water and sanitation access (85% versus 62%). Simulations indicated an approximately 3.8°C indoor temperature difference during peak summer conditions. Vernacular construction using locally sourced stone, timber and clay also demonstrated approximately 170% lower embodied carbon than contemporary wall assemblies. The findings highlight adaptable vernacular principles for sustainable rural housing interventions balancing cultural continuity, environmental performance and modernization.