Civilization first established itself in proximity to water. It was by the river where we prospered and enjoyed the attraction and benefit of a collective intellect. The early builders' geographical habitat and landscape provided a framework for innovation and prototype development.

The origin of prototype development began with nature and the natural desire to be safe, warm comfortable, and dry. Thereafter, prototypical forms developed as a direct response to climate and geography and later through trial and error and agriculture. Once basic needs were satisfied, we began to have what we call ‘leisure’; the freedom to have a bright idea, precedent, function, form, aesthetic, artistic expression, and later, to develop open space, a town square, where we gather and enjoy the company of others.

These ancient prototypes are now archetypes and are romanticized. Their intrinsic power, meaning, and form continue to be incorporated in modern design. They are especially useful when we merge them with modern programs, climate, heating, and cooling methods.

Traditional prototype innovation and design have been ignored in the study curriculum and hurried through the architectural history/theory sequence. Recently, practitioners have reconsidered the historical vernacular prototypes of the past to blend with modern functional requirements. Design decisions are now decided based on their friendliness to our environment and sustainability. The question of whether to install a fossil fuel comfort system or use traditional prototypes is on the table.