Vernacular Architecture: Definition: A type of local or regional construction, using traditional materials and resources from the area where the building is located.

Established in 2022, Vernacular Works is a hybrid Architecture practice, working with our minds and our hands to create Beautiful Buildings, Interiors and Objects that tread lightly on the Earth. We strive towards a bioregional, circular and inclusive future that considers the labor, provenance and environmental performance of what constitutes our work. Vernacular Works are committed to making more with less, championing re-use, adaptation and retrofitting without compromising on aesthetic quality. To achieve this, we are highly collaborative in our approach, considering our clients specific needs and working closely with environmental engineers, skilled craftsmen and local suppliers to deliver high performing, low carbon buildings that will serve generations to come. We look forward to working with you.

max dowd

Max Dowd: Founder/Director

Max studied Architecture at The Cooper Union and Bartlett School of Architecture, London. Prior to setting up Vernacular works in 2022 he worked at several renowned Architectural Firms including Rogers Stirk Harbour, MASS design group and Grimshaw Architects with notable projects include the Maccallan Whisky Distillery, World Expo Sustainability Pavillion and the Institute of Sustainability, ASU. In 2018 Max won the City of Dreams Competition to design and build a pavilion on Governor’s island built entirely from waste. He has lectured at the Cooper Union, Pratt Institute, Rensselaer Polytechnic and the University of Calgary and continues his own research practice focusing on circular design, embodied Carbon and emerging Biogenic Material Technologies.

max@vernacular.works