tiiliverhous

Tiiliverhous is a tile-based housing typology described in worldbuilding and vernacular architecture studies. The term combines tiili, meaning tile in several Finnic languages, with hous, a common root for house. Tiiliverhous dwellings use fired-clay tiles as the primary exterior cladding, mounted on a timber or steel frame, with a lime plaster finish. The system emphasizes weather resistance, breathability, and straightforward maintenance.

Construction and design details center on a structural frame with tile panels set in recessed battens and secured by joints or hooks. Exterior tiles are laid in horizontal courses, with lime mortar joints for elasticity and moisture management. Roofing commonly uses matching clay tiles. Interior walls are plastered, and floors may be timber or tile, often with insulation placed between frame and cladding to improve thermal performance.

History and geography place tiiliverhous origins in the coastal valley of Larinor during the 17th century, where an abundance of clay and a damp climate favored tile-based solutions. The approach spread to nearby port towns and rural communities, giving rise to regional variants. In modern times, tiiliverhous has experienced revival as a sustainable, low-embodied-energy construction method and as a focus of heritage conservation.

Significance and contemporary use emphasize durability, repairability, and a distinctive vernacular character. Preservation efforts typically document original tile patterns and lime plaster finishes. Contemporary applications often involve prefab tile panels and improved insulation, allowing the exterior appearance to be retained while meeting current energy and building standards.

Examples cited for illustration include the Old Market Tile House in Port Mira and the Rivergate Chapel in Norelia, both highlighted for showcasing traditional tiiliverhous features.