From Vernacular Ecological Intelligence to Planetary Design: Life Cycle Thinking as a Framework for Ecological Transformation in Architecture

The ecological transformation of architecture requires reconsidering how architectural knowledge is produced, environmental consequences are evaluated, and responsibility is addressed across spatial, temporal, and ecological scales. This chapter brings vernacular ecological knowledge into dialogue with Life Cycle Thinking and Planetary Design. Vernacular architecture is approached as a dynamic socio-ecological knowledge system shaped by culture, climate, materiality, and collective practices. Maintenance, repair, adaptability, and intergenerational learning are examined as forms of situated ecological intelligence rather than historical models to be replicated. Life Cycle Thinking provides a framework for integrating place-based knowledge into contemporary architectural decisions, extending environmental assessment beyond carbon to circularity, biodiversity, regeneration, cultural continuity, and resilience. The relationship with Planetary Design is understood as a scalar and epistemic connection through which local knowledge informs decisions affecting broader ecological and material systems. Rather than prescribing a universal method, Planetary Design is presented as a boundary-aware, sufficiency-led, regenerative, justice-oriented, and adaptive approach. The chapter argues that ecological transformation depends on combining quantitative assessment with local knowledge, social needs, interconnected system boundaries, and long-term stewardship.