Principles from the Past for the Problems of the Present Part 1 Dissertation 2025 Kate Spragg Falmouth University Falmouth | UK The exploration of the vernacular through traditional and Indigenous methods can teach the modern designer not only where things came from but also provide a direction to a bright future for architecture.In a world that is struggling to stay afloat amid a climate crisis, reflection on the overconsumption of resources can lead to learning from a time or a people who use only what is offered by nature, to step lightly rather charging ahead.This study highlights the importance of evaluating the wrongdoings and injustices in the industry that prevented sooner collaboration with different cultures and collectives in our joint stewardship of protecting our planet. History shows us the denial and abolition of traditional building techniques in Africa at the hands of colonialism and this in turn has brought about a type of designing that is working against nature.There is a lot to learn from inspirational organisations like MASS Design Group that are using tradition to successfully create environmental and socially sustainable designs, setting a standard to aspire towards. Tutor(s) Rachel Tyler