Caribtecture| the intent: exploring Caribbean architecture.

The islands of the Caribbean conjure up vivid and romantic images of white-sand beaches, frangipani flowers, reggae and soca, cricket, and vibrant landscapes. Less well-known in comparison to the region's natural beauty is the diversity of its architecture. Throughout history, the wide range of historical periods, geographical landforms, microclimates, and multiethnic populations have all influenced different expressions of buildings.?

The Caribbean’s perspective and contributions to the field of Architecture as both an art and a science has been historically sidelined for far to long. In my opinion there is a severe lack of academic study and published research on Caribbean architectural design, heritage and history. With many of the existing publications being completed by scholars who are not native to the region. As a result this content may lack a sensitive touch. This in tern has led to the creation of a blind spot within the global architectural curriculum. As a past student of the only english speaking architecture school in the region: Caribbean School of Architecture at the University of Technology, Jamaica I recognised this. It is my hope that this independent research project can make a small impact.?

I would define Caribbean Architecture by its dynamic relationship between climate and buildings. This can be seen as the most important factor in understanding the nature of Caribbean architecture. The regional emphasis on outdoor living softens the separation between inside and out, which is fundamental to creating our Caribbean flare. Are these characteristics the result of climate or the physiological make up the ‘West Indian’ man? I aim to explore the roots and influences, tracing these across space and time. I feel a deep need to find out who I am. It is my belief that under all the “forced” influences our identity remains within our architecture - This is evident within our landscape.?

Throughout an analysis of Caribbean architecture, there is an opportunity to judge the extent to which the buildings in any society reflect the culture of that society. What elements were important in constructing the identity of that society in brick, stone, concrete or mortar? Once there is a global public and academic understanding of how the architecture of this region is beholden to its past, the existence of Caribbean architectural patronage is of greater significance. As Caribbean Architecture often comes to terms with difficult societal profiles, periods of economic uncertainty, public insecurity and a lack of pride in our identity. There is a common understanding that given the multilingual nature of the region this would be reflected within the architectural language. And it has - our buildings are in tune with their surroundings, depending chiefly on local materials and local traditions. The character and crafts of the people find expression, but always with an eye to the demands of site, society, and climate. I want to be patient when exploring these. As each island has its own vernacular style, patterns and techniques which have been handed down from generation to generation, often with subtle variations influenced by history, climate, availability of materials, and sheer local customs and practices.

On the pragmatic and futuristic front, generally throughout the CARICOM region there has been an openness to explore and innovate foreign architectural styles, this will be recorded within this project as well. When we look at Caribbean Architecture through the lens of problem solving we begin to see that there is indeed an evolution of architectural construction practices. This forced collaborative adaptation with regional and international bodies arose out of a need to survive and prepare. Although the region’s contributions to the climate crisis is minimal it’s ability to cope with the effects are imperative and must be at the forefront of all discussions.?

We really are a true microcosm of the world. A built environment developed over a long period, during which peoples from the four corners of the planet were brought together under the prevailing hegemonic purpose of colonisation, exploitation, empires, and inquisition. Despite this, when traditional materials blend with modern design studies, the result is an architecture that harmoniously thrives in the tropical environment, paying homage to the rich cultural idiom of the region and safeguarding ancient traditions, knowledge, and crafts that have withstood the test of time.

It is my dream that we as a region are known for more that our vibrant colour schemes, tropical architectural elements and climatic considerations. The Caribtecture research project aims that through the collaboration of artist, designers, architects and writers throughout the region we can capture this image via a? written and visual narrative in a honest and comprehensive form.?