In search of an appropriate research methodology for investigating traditional African architecture

Abstract

Africa's building traditions are under threat. There is a real need to subject them to rigorous scientific investigation to support conservation and explore indigenous knowledge systems. But the taxonomy is still immature and the analytical criteria Eurocentric. In addition, the education of architects generally limits their involvement to measured drawings and does not equip them with suitable interpretive skills in this field. This report attempts to contribute to the issue of appropriate methodologies by reviewing three constituent elements: theory, literature and fieldwork. These are discussed in terms of sources and methodologies exposed to while studying the Swahili and Arab architecture of the East African Coast and during appurtenant excursions to Kenya and Tanzania. The report does not suggest a strict methodologist approach and it is emphasized that research must be interdisciplinary. It does recommend, however, that further work on typology would allow architects to trace the evolution of traditional architecture and anticipate future development. This would be a unique contribution.