Investigating and Documenting the Vernacular Architecture of Tigray: A Case of Selected Hidmo House Sites in Mekelle City

Abstract

This study investigates the selected vernacular Hidmo houses of Mekelle, Ethiopia, specifically within the sub-cities of Kedamay Woyane (Tabia Zeselassie) and Hadnet (Tabia Aynalem), focusing on construction techniques, material usage, typological classifications, and preservation challenges in the context of rapid urbanization and cultural heritage decline. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates both descriptive and explanatory analyses through stratified sampling. Data collection involved Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with TTCB experts, purposively selected key informants (KIs), and inventory documentation informants (DIs). Analytical tools such as Excel and SPSS v.21 were used to interpret data derived from FGDs, semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, direct observations, field surveys, and architectural measurements. The study identifies major threats to Hidmo preservation, including funding limitations, structural vulnerabilities, and damage caused by seasonal rainfall. A strong positive correlation was found between active preservation efforts and the continued survival of Hidmo houses. Findings reveal that both anthropogenic factors, particularly unregulated urban development, and environmental pressures accelerate the deterioration of these indigenous structures, thereby jeopardizing Mekelle’s cultural identity, historical value, and tourism potential. The study concludes by recommending policy interventions that emphasize collaborative stakeholder engagement, increased financial fund, community participation, and adaptive reuse strategies to ensure the sustainable conservation of Hidmo architecture amidst ongoing urban transformation.