Rural buildings and environment

The study deals with the value of traditional housing and settlements in the countryside. It is argued that for the sustainable development of rural settlements at least four characteristics should be protected: balance between nature and built-up area; historic traditional entities; local communities; the countryside as an own culture. To study the value of the traditional natural system in housing and settlement, three levels have been investigated: the use of natural materials, the design of traditional–functional houses and the function of settlements. It was found that the analysis can be applied to areas that are under reconstruction or redevelopment. It can even save some 35–50% of investment costs. Finally, it can play an important role in sustainable improvements.