Traditional Mongolian houses have a distinct style, using wood, felt and other natural materials. Many traditionally-built houses include yurts, which are circular tents draped in felt. These tents allow air ventilation and are crafted to be easily dismantled and moved, which allows nomads to easily change their location without much effort. In traditional Mongolian design, materials such as felt, stones, wood and metals are combined to craft strong yet visually appealing homes and buildings. Mongolian Traditional House Designs
The traditional Mongolian Ger is seen as a symbol of the nomadic culture, as its portability allows easy movement and relocation. Originally, the Ger was only used by nomads, but its modern adaptations have allowed it to be used by all kinds of cultures around the world. A typical Ger uses multiple felt coverings to ensure durability and protection from the elements. Its design includes a central pole with a hole in the centre to allow a chimney. The sides are built up with straight metal poles and the whole structure is then shrouded in felt to ensure protection from wind and rain. Mongolian Gers: A Look into Nomadic Homes
Mongolian yurts are the traditional tents used by the nomadic people. While modern interpretation of the yurt are more popular, the original design is still found in traditional Mongolian culture. The frame of a Mongolian yurt is made out of wooden poles that are lashed together with rope. The walls and roof are then covered with animal hides or felt for insulation and protection from the weather. Mongolian Yurts: Design and Building Techniques
As the nomadic lifestyle has changed and modernized, so too have the Mongolian yurts. Modern interpretation of the yurt, known as Tolee Yurts, often use canvas as a covering instead of felt, allowing them to be used as temporary shelters and studios. This has meant that contemporary artists and architects have been able to use modern interpretation of the yurt for innovative designs, such as combining the tent structures with modern architecture for innovative and eco-friendly designs. Mongolian Yurts and their Uses in Modern Design
Tolee yurts are a kind of traditional Mongolian yurt which feature a domed roof and a circular door. This type of yurt was used by nomadic Mongols for centuries as their main home. Modern innovations on this classic design have included the use of canvas and metal poles to help make them sturdier and more insulating. One of the main benefits of using Tolee yurts is their portability and versatility. They can be easily moved and set up for a variety of uses, such as sleeping, as a temporary studio for art or music, or for storage purposes. Tolee Yurt Design in Mongolia
The Herdsman's house is a type of Mongolian yurt used to house families and herds of animals. Typically, the structure of the yurt consists of wooden poles and reeds which are bound together with rope. The walls and roof are then covered with felt or other materials to ensure insulation and protection from the elements. The design of the Herdsman's house is designed to be portable, allowing them to be relocated with ease. The Herdsman's House: Mongolian Yurt Design and Construction
Mongolian architecture has evolved over thousands of years to create unique structures that have stood the test of time. Traditional designs featured wooden and metal poles as supports, and reeds and felt as insulation and protection layers. These methods are still in use today and are much appreciated for their balance between portability and durability. Modern interpretations of Mongolian architecture typically involve the use of canvas structures to provide light and insulation to the buildings, making them ideal for modern-day living. An Introduction to Mongolian Architecture
Mongolian log houses are made by aligning logs into a wall which are then held together by wooden frames and covered with felt for insulation. This method of construction is lightweight, durable and provides good insulation. The walls and roof are often decorated with carvings, symbols or stencils, adding a unique personal touch to the design. Traditional Mongolian log houses also feature a chimney which allows the smoke from the fire to escape. Mongolian Log Houses: Basic Design and Construction
Mongolian yurts have been adapted to meet modern needs, and the use of solar power is increasingly being used in their design. Solar panels are integrated into the yurt roof, allowing them to take advantage of the abundant sunshine in the area. Solar consoles are also being used to provide additional light and heating within the yurt, allowing for a more energy-efficient living environment. Using Solar Power in Mongolian Yurt Design
Modern interpretations of Mongolian design often incorporate the use of sustainable materials and technologies. This allows for more efficient use of energy and has given birth to innovative designs such as green yurts and solar yurts. These structures are designed to meet the needs of the environment by integrating sustainable technologies into their design. Sustainable Mongolian Influenced Design
Cultural beliefs have had a huge effect on the design of Mongolian houses. Symbols such as the tree of life and the sun symbolise protection and prosperity within the home. Decorative elements such as traditional carvings and engravings also play a significant role, providing a vital connection to the past. As the world changes and new technologies become available, traditional Mongolian design continues to adapt and evolve, offering innovative solutions that continue to honour the culture and tradition of the area. The Impact of Cultural Beliefs on Mongolian House Design