The Integration of Felt into Architecture: a Tradition, a Heritage, and Environmental Sustainability

Abstract

Felt is one of the oldest materials used by the people of Kazakhstan, Central Asia, and Mongolia. For centuries, it has served as the foundation of housing structures and a symbol of the environmental awareness of nomadic people. Despite its great environmental and technological potential, its usage in modern architecture in Kazakhstan is still limited. The purpose of the study is based on a comprehensive analysis of the characteristics and opportunities of felt as a vernacular and environmentally oriented material within the framework of architectural activity in Kazakhstan. The main focus comes down to the definition of its role in the formation of regional identity and strengthening of continuity in accordance with global trends of sustainable development. The research methodology is a theoretical qualitative analysis, which is based on the study of: scientific literature on thermal insulation, environmental and operational properties of felt; characteristics of felt (thermal conductivity, resistance to moisture, durability, etc.) according to data from scientific publications. Comparative analysis involves comparing felt with other natural and synthetic materials in terms of environmental and functional parameters, as well as studying international experience in using felt and other natural materials in architecture, followed by the adaptation of successful solutions for use in Kazakhstan. One method is to evaluate not only the strengths, but also the weaknesses, of felt as a building material. This includes identifying problems related to adapting felt to the modern architectural industry in Kazakhstan. The results of the study support the potential of felt as a sustainable material for use in architecture and design, with its key advantages including thermal conductivity, biodegradability, durability, and cultural significance. The results of the study substantiate the recommendations for the integration of felt in modern architectural activity in Kazakhstan. The use of felt in architecture can contribute both to the preservation of cultural heritage and continuity, and to the strengthening of regional identity, while conforming to the principles of ecologically oriented design, and thus to the goals of sustainable development.