Post-earthquake housing recovery with traditional construction: A preliminary review

Post-disaster reconstruction requires not only an immediate response but also long-term consideration of the recovery of local livelihoods, sustainability of technology transfer, and respect for sociocultural norms. A top-down approach for post-disaster reconstruction, usually relying on external resources and standardized prototypes, might strongly hinder the recovery process. To enhance community resilience, the use of traditional knowledge in post-disaster reconstruction is highlighted in the Sendai Framework. This study specifically focuses on traditional construction. A systematic literature review is conducted on post-earthquake housing recovery with traditional construction, and a hierarchical analysis framework helps categorize the review results at strategic, managerial, and operational levels. Drawn from the review, a classification of traditional construction systems is proposed, corresponding to their varied seismic performance. The results indicate the possibility of strengthening traditional construction with seismic engineering and its successful implementation into reconstruction. Specifically, it includes timber-reinforced masonry, wattle and daub, timber frame construction, reinforced rammed earth, and reinforced adobe. However, we also find that the sustainable practice of traditional construction remains problematic, and the replication of participatory reconstruction is difficult. This preliminary review serves to bridge the discipline of vernacular architecture and disaster management and establish a solid common ground for further argumentation. •This study explains how and why the seismic performance of traditional construction varies among different construction systems.•After earthquakes, traditional construction may be qualitatively observed, quantitatively assessed, and finally legalized into construction norms. Yet legalization does not necessarily ensure its sustainable practice. The marginalization of traditional construction can occur due to varied reasons, such as relaxation of regulations, change of lifestyles, and the lack of institutionalization.•The engagement of civil society is of significance for economically less developed countries, to promote the implementation of traditional construction in post-earthquake context.•Five types of traditional construction systems have been adopted into post-earthquake housing recovery.