Sumu-Mayangna vernacular housing in Nicaragua. Evolution and sustainability

Abstract

The research focuses on the study of the influence of historical and social events on the Mayangna traditional dwelling. A bioclimatic analysis, as well as a comparation of the level of thermal comfort of four different dwelling models of each relevant stage of Mayangna history is performed. The Mayangna understanding of nature was the basis for a housing system based on meeting their basic needs. They created a modular, socially and ecologically sustainable system based on their way of life and the "biribiri" system (taking care of each other). Mayangna life is currently the consequence of local political interests, western influences, globalization, and loss of traditions. However, climate change is currently their biggest problem. The research analyzes the four main historical periods in the evolution of this civilization: (a) their arrival in Nicaraguan territory (ca. 2000 b.c.), (b) the Spanish colonization and the impact of foreign cultures (from 15th century), (c) the Sandinista revolution (1979-1989), and finally (d) the present day with the influences of modern neoliberal models (1989 onward). The interrelation between their cosmogonic view, the environment, political-social events and the transformations of their homes was analyzed, creating a typological model for each period. A comparative study of the thermal behavior between these housing models, is carried out. The analysis considers aspects related to thermal behavior and humidity with the support of dedicated software. With the bioclimatic analysis of the housing models, it is possible to observe an important reduction in the level of thermal comfort of these constructions over time, with the worst results during the Sandinista revolution. The utilization of modern industrialized materials not only leads to the erosion of cultural traditions but also directly and indirectly impacts the transformation of people's way of life.