Much has been written about the influence of Edwin Lutyens and Le Corbusier on Indian architecture. But far less documented is vernacular architecture, especially that which was not built by royalty. VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE OF INDIA: TRADITIONAL RESIDENTIAL STYLES AND SPACES (Architecture Autonomous, Rs 4,500) by Tejinder S. Randhawa plugs this gap handsomely.

Divided into chapters on the basis of regions, such as “Himalayas and the Hills” and so on, and richly illustrated with photographs, the volume highlights how indigenous styles of architecture are the sustainable solutions that an increasingly warming planet needs — an inner courtyard for natural ventilation is one example. The use of local materials, technology and labour does not detract from the aesthetics of these buildings. Vernacular Architecture moves away from celebrated Indian monuments to paint a unique picture of the beauty of quotidian built heritage.