ISVS 2025
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ISVS, the International Seminar on Vernacular Settlements, is amongst the longest-running seminar series in the field of Vernacular Architecture and Settlement studies. Started in the year 1999 in Depok, Indonesia the seminar has travelled to different parts of the world such as India, Sri Lanka, North Cyprus, Turkey. In the process, ISVS has created a community of scholars, professionals and academic that have contributed to the seminar in various capacities. ISVS envisages to contribute to the knowledge of vernacular settlements around the world and establish meaningfulness, and relevance of vernacular traditions, and cultural practices in the contemporary world. Those who participate in ISVS seminars contribute to its development
CARE School of Architecture
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CARE School of Architecture, Trichy, is proud to announce that it will host the International Seminar on Vernacular Settlements (ISVS) in November 2025, bringing together scholars, professionals, and academics from around the world to the Southern part of India this year. This seminar shall foster a global dialogue on the relevance of vernacular traditions and cultural practices in contemporary times.
The upcoming edition at CARE School of Architecture will continue this legacy, providing a platform for researchers and practitioners to engage in meaningful discussions on vernacular settlements and their evolving role in today’s architectural landscape. Selected papers from
ISVS will also have the opportunity to be published in indexed journals, further contributing to the academic discourse. We invite the architecture fraternity in and around to be part of this significant event, exploring, exchanging, and expanding the discourse on vernacular settlements. Stay tuned for more details on themes, paper submissions, and participation
opportunities.
Borders, Boundaries and Traditions of Evolving Geographies
The intersection of borders, boundaries, and traditions in evolving geographies is dynamic and ever-changing. It reflects both the constraints and opportunities that come with movement—whether it be any ecological system and its manifestation in its physical, cultural, or technological aspects. In a world where borders are increasingly fluid and malleable, the evolution of traditions and the shaping of new geographies are both a response to and a reflection of the transformations within the given ecosystems.
“Borders, boundaries, and traditions in evolving geographies” is a rich and complex topic that touches many aspects of geography, politics, culture, and history. It is relevant in today’s rapidly changing world, where physical and social boundaries are constantly being reshaped. Natural landscapes like rivers, mountains, and seas have historically served as natural borders. However, as technology advances (e.g., border walls and surveillance systems), people’s physical and virtual separation becomes more complex. In some areas,natural boundaries
may be less significant than political or economic ones, but they still are relevant to traditional societies. As such, ecological borders are not just physical but often tied to cultural identities, traditions, languages, and histories. As people move across borders—whether due to migration, globalization, or conflict—their cultural practices may evolve or blend with those of others, leading to new traditions or adapting old ones. Some communities, primarily indigenous or marginalized groups, may find their traditions under threat as borders change or as the encroachment of global culture increases. At the same time, these traditions can also serve as resistance to external influences, allowing communities to assert their identity and autonomy in a world of shifting boundaries.
The role of space and time interplay in the evolution of traditional societies has much to offer as a research domain. The broader issue pertains to the conceptualization of borders and their intrinsic meanings and connotations. These borders are frequently employed as instruments of cultural resistance, while at other times, they are appropriated by state or corporate entities to serve alternative interests. Consequently, the discourse surrounding borders, boundaries, and evolving geographies is inextricably linked to traditions and their contemporary manifestations. This topic is significant for understanding the emergence of new geographical formations and equipping us with the necessary analytical tools to critique and assess the nature of ongoing transformations.
The dynamic interplay of ecological systems, societal movements, and technological advancements is central to understanding how traditional societies adapt or resist in response to shifting borders. This is a multifaceted issue, with physical, cultural, political, and ecological layers interacting in ways that continue to transform the world as we know it. Natural features—such as rivers, mountain ranges, or forests—serve as both literal and symbolic boundaries that affect how people interact with the land and each other. Traditional societies often define their cultural practices around the ecological environments they inhabit. These practices are not just about subsistence; they shape cultural rituals, language, and worldviews.
Traditional societies often possess an intricate understanding of local ecosystems, known as “traditional ecological knowledge” (TEK). This knowledge, passed down through generations, is deeply embedded in local cultures and traditions. As borders shift, traditional ecological knowledge can be either preserved or threatened. Driven by economic pressures, conflict, or environmental change—leading to the blending or loss of local traditions. As people adapt to new environments or face environmental displacement, their cultural identities and practices must evolve to survive in new geographies. This convergence of ecological, technological, and cultural shifts concerning evolving borders is fascinating and deeply relevant to current global challenges.
Water sources have long been seen as the lifeblood of communities, and rivers, lakes, and seas often serve as both natural boundaries and cultural connectors. River is not just a boundary but a spiritual centre, a living entity that informs their worldview. As these natural boundaries are threatened by deforestation or dam construction, traditional societies are forced to rethink their relationship with the physical landscape and their associated cultural rituals. In many cultures, mountains and forests have spiritual significance, marking sacred spaces or boundaries between humans and the divine. These landscapes may also be central to local governance structures and decision-making, as they dictate land use, resources, and practices (e.g., sacred groves and ceremonial hunting grounds). When these lands become targets for resource extraction or development, they face ecological degradation and the potential loss of cultural practices tied to these spaces.
Subthemes
IMPORTANT DATES
- Announcement of ISVS 14, Call for abstracts – April 25, 2025
- Portal open for abstract submission- May 15, 2025
- Last date Submission of Abstracts: 25, June 2025
- Approval of Abstracts: 25, July 2025
- Submission of Full Papers: 15, September 2025
- Review of Full papers: October 15, 2025
- Camera ready papers: October 31, 2025
- Conference dates – November 20-22, 2025
ABSTRACT GUIDELINES
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The abstract must contain 300-500 words.
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The abstract should be entered as plain text; it must not contain any HTML elements.
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Keywords (at least 3) should be provided to represent the content of the abstract
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Only one abstract by an author or co-author may be submitted.
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A maximum of three (3) authors per abstract will be accepted.
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Abstracts are to be submitted online using the link below.
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
- Papers are limited to a minimum of 2500 and a maximum of 6000 words (including title, abstract, images, figures, captions, and references).
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Paper must be written in English Language.
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Papers must follow the instructions provided in the template file available in Microsoft Word format.
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File should be in Microsoft Word format (.doc) only.File size is limited to 10MB.
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Papers failing to follow the guidelines will be rejected without consideration of their qualities.
ABOUT TRICHY
“Trichy, also known as Tiruchirappalli, is a historic city in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, rich in cultural heritage and spiritual significance. Home to the iconic Rockfort Temple and the majestic Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Trichy boasts stunning architecture, vibrant markets, and a blend of ancient traditions. The city’s strategic location on the banks of the River Cauvery has made it a hub for trade, commerce, and spirituality for centuries. With its warm hospitality, delectable cuisine, and captivating landmarks, Trichy is an ideal destination for conference attendees looking to experience the essence of Tamil Nadu’s rich history and culture.”
HOW TO REACH ?
Trichy, a historic city in Tamil Nadu, India, is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Here’s a guide to help national and international delegates reach Trichy:
By Air:
1. Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ): Located about 5 km from the city center, TRZ airport receives domestic and international flights. You can take a taxi or bus from the airport to reach your destination.
2. Nearest major airports: Chennai International Airport (MAA) and Bengaluru International Airport (BLR) are about 335 km and 370 km from Trichy, respectively.
By Rail:
1. Tiruchirappalli Junction (TPJ): A major railway station, TPJ is well-connected to major cities in India, including Chennai, Bengaluru, and Madurai. You can take a train from any part of the country to reach Trichy.
By Road:
1. Bus: Trichy has excellent bus connectivity to major cities in Tamil Nadu and neighboring states. You can take government or private buses from cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, and Madurai.
2. Taxi/Car: You can hire a taxi or drive to Trichy from nearby cities. The city is well-connected by national highways.
Transport Options within Trichy:
1. Taxis: Available at the airport, railway station, and throughout the city.
2. Auto-rickshaws: A popular mode of transport for short distances.
3. Buses: City buses and private buses operate within the city.
For International Delegates:
1. Visa requirements: Check the Indian government’s visa requirements and apply in advance.
NOTE
Committee members and Submission Deadlines to be announced soon.
