Content uploaded by Ruşen Ergün
Author content
All content in this area was uploaded by Ruşen Ergün on Oct 06, 2024
Content may be subject to copyright.
11:3 (2024) 79–93 | ijbes.utm.my | eISSN 2289–8948|
IJBES
International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability
Published by Penerbit UTM Press, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
IJBES11(3)/2024, 79-93
Reinterpretation of Passive Cooling Strategies in Hot
And Dry Climate Traditional Architecture: Vents in The
Building
Ruşen Ergün
Department of Architecture, Dicle University, Diyarbakir, Türkiye
rusen.ergun@dicle.edu.tr
Ayhan Bekleyen
Department of Architecture, Dicle University, Diyarbakir, Türkiye
ABSTRACT
The building sector is among the most critical factors affecting environmental
sustainability due to its impacts, such as energy consumption and greenhouse gas
production. The reasons for energy consumption and greenhouse gas production in the
building sector may vary according to climatic characteristics. In hot and arid climate
regions, a significant portion of energy consumption is caused by indoor cooling,
especially since the focus is on reducing the indoor temperature. In the periods when
traditional architecture was developed, the lack of technological products that would
increase energy consumption was effective in providing indoor air conditioning with
passive design strategies. This study aims to identify the building openings for natural
ventilation and cooling used in the traditional architecture of hot and dry climates and to
analyze and evaluate their modern interpretations. A total of 235 award-winning
projects were analyzed, and 21 were included in the study. In this context, it was
determined that 16 different strategies used in traditional architecture were re-
interpretation, and their modern interpretations were analyzed through award-winning
projects. The traditional passive design strategies identified in this context have been
adapted to modern architecture in 18 types. Wind orientators come to the forefront. In
addition, it was determined that the strategies adapted to modern architecture are
generally integrated. This study guides modern interpretations of traditional passive
design strategies for sustainable building design.
Article History
Received : 10 May 2024
Received in revised form : 13 August 2024
Accepted : 14 August 2024
Published Online : 8 September 2024
Keywords:
Traditional Architecture, Hot and Dry
Climate, Passive Design Strategies, Ventilation
Cooling, Modern Adaptation
Corresponding Author Contact:
rusen.ergun@dicle.edu.tr
DOI: 10.11113/ijbes.v11.n3.1335
© 2024 Penerbit UTM Press. All rights reserved
1. Introduction
Building sector is responsible for 30% of greenhouse gas
emissions and about 40% of the energy consumed, which
negatively affects environmental sustainability, such as climate
change, global warming, and consumption of natural
resources. This energy consumption in buildings is expected
to reach 50% by 2050 (IEA, 2021; UNEP, 2020). Especially
with the energy crisis in 1970, it became clear that the current
building sector was unsustainable. Since then, achieving
building sustainability has become one of the main goals of
many countries (Kojok et al., 2016).
The preservation of the natural environment, efficient use of
energy, and utilization of natural energy resources without
using to fossil fuels to achieve thermal comfort have been
instrumental in making traditional architecture a sustainable
80 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
building (Heidari et al., 2017). Therefore, the design
strategies of traditional architecture are essential for ensuring
the sustainability of modern buildings (Foruzanmehr, 2015;
Mileto et al., 2021).
Modern adaptations of the systems used in traditional
architecture still need to be sufficient (Berghout & Forgues,
2020). However, it can be easily understood from award-
winning projects and academic studies that there is a severe
tendency to go in this direction. Bagasi et al., 2021; Guillaud
et al., 2014; Hassan et al., 2016; Manzano-Agugliaro et al.,
2015 are some academic studies in this field. However, it is
tough to apply traditional passive design strategies in the same
way in the current conditions, considering the current human
and environmental conditions. Direct imitation of traditional
architecture will take away the comfort brought by modernism
from users (Kimura, 1994; Suleiman & Himmo, 2012).
Therefore, using the sustainable design criteria in traditional
architecture as a guide and making modern adaptations would
be more appropriate for today's conditions.
The design criteria used for passive ventilation and cooling in
the traditional architecture of hot and arid climates can be
defined as a guide for determining the air conditioning
strategies to be used in modern architecture. The biggest
challenge in achieving climatic comfort in hot climates is
cooling (Azimi Fereidani et al., 2021). The energy spent for
cooling in these climatic zones is equivalent to approximately
50% of the energy spent in providing climatic comfort
(Dabaieh et al., 2015). The efficiency of these strategies
depends on building physics such as direction, size,
proportion, location and climatic characteristics such as
prevailing wind direction, day-night temperature difference
(Pacheco et al., 2012).
In this study, modern interpretations of building-scale natural
ventilation and cooling strategies used in hot and dry climate
traditional architecture are analyzed and evaluated in the
context of award-winning projects. The main objective is to
provide a guide to modern interpretations of traditional
passive design strategies for natural ventilation and cooling for
sustainable building design. The creation of this guide is based
on detailed literature reviews.
2. Material and Method
The searches to identify the strategies used for natural
ventilation and cooling in traditional hot and dry climate
architecture were based on Web of Science and Scopus
databases and supported by Google Scholar. Literature review
were conducted between June 2021 and May 2023 to identify
traditional passive design strategies for hot and dry climates.
The literature review was conducted for passive design
strategies for natural ventilation and cooling at the building
scale in hot and dry climate traditional architecture and
modern interpretations of passive design strategies. The design
parameters at the building scale are divided into two groups:
semi-open spatial discharge. Building envelope is grouped into
wall and roof openings and incorporate passive systems. These
groupings are based on the utilization criteria of passive design
strategies (Ergün & Bekleyen, 2024).
The scope of literature reviews identified 16 different
strategies for cooling with natural ventilation (Figure 1).
Figure 1 Research process
Modern interpretations of passive design strategies are
analyzed through award-winning projects. These projects
were analyzed through a literature review: architects'
descriptions, academic studies, descriptions on the pages
where they received awards, architects' websites, social media
pages, Arch Daily, archello, architecture in development, and
81 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
other leading websites of architecture and detailed
observations. Projects that received one or more RIBA awards,
Aga Khan Architecture Award or shortlist, Breeam,
GreenStar, or LEED certification awards were analyzed. In
addition, all the projects of the architects who received the
Pritzker Architecture Prize are included in the study. The main
reason for selecting these buildings is that they have proven
their design features internationally by having one or more of
the most prestigious architecture awards in the world. In
addition, projects that did not receive any awards but
developed an original design proposal for the modernization of
traditional passive design strategies were also included in the
scope of the study. In this context, a total of 235 projects were
analyzed. Buildings designed without using similar strategies
and without being inspired by natural ventilation and cooling
strategies in traditional architecture were excluded, and 21
projects were included.
3. Results and Evaluation
The traditional passive design strategies from the literature
review are categorized into two main groups: semi-open
spatial discharge and building envelope.
Within the semi-open space discharge; courtyard, iwan and
takhtabush were analysed. Within the building envelope,
openings and integrated passive cooling systems are analysed
(Figure 2) (Ergün & Bekleyen, 2024).
Figure 2 Classification of traditional passive design strategies (edited by Ergün & Bekleyen, 2024)
Re-interpretation of these traditional passive design strategies
are analyzed and evaluated through award-winning projects.
3.1 Semi-open Spatial Discharge
3.1.1 Courtyard and Takhtabush
The courtyard has been used for shading and indoor cooling in
hot and dry climates traditional architecture (Taleghani et al.,
2012). Courtyards can shade interior spaces by blocking solar
radiation on hot summer days. (Muhaisen & Gadi, 2005).
Courtyards can also be used for cooling interior spaces (Ergün
& Akın, 2024). The air of the courtyard and interior spaces,
heated by solar radiation during the daytime, rises towards the
night hours and is thrown out, while the cold air outside settles
in the courtyard. The cold air that settles in the courtyard at
night cools the rooms the next day. The outside air, which is
hot during the day, passes over the courtyard without entering
it and only creates vortices inside (Edwards et al., 2006).
The use of deciduous trees on the south-facing north façade of
the courtyard and deciduous vines above the courtyard can
provide shading during the summer and shed their leaves
during the winter to allow solar radiation to enter the interior
(Sahebzadeh et al., 2020; Tavassoli, 2016; Bekleyen &
Dalkılıç, 2012). Plants are also involved in indoor cooling by
evading water from their leaves (Abdulkareem, 2016). In
addition to plants, another frequently used landscape element
in the courtyard is the water element. The water element is
used as a pool or well in these spaces. Water pools directly
involve evaporative cooling (Edwards et al., 2017) (Figure 2).
Takhtabush is a space that usually connects two courtyards at
ground level and is covered by a terrace or seating area. The
hot air in the courtyard is directly exposed to the sun rises.
Due to the effect of the temperature difference, air flows from
the cool courtyard to the warm courtyard through the
takhtabush. In this way, the courtyard, and thus the
surrounding spaces, are ventilated and cooled (Figure 3)
(Ernest & Ford, 2012; Fathy, 1986).
82 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
Figure 3 Courtyard and takhtabush's working principle
In designs such as the Mughal Sheraton Hotel, the courtyard
and takhtabush are at ground level, similar to the use in
traditional architecture, and spaces can often be arranged
around them. The courtyard and takhtabush are among the
essential strategies re-interpreted for modern architecture. In
addition to using the central courtyard, similar to traditional
architecture, it can also be used on the upper floors. Its use on
the upper floors is especially for ventilation and cooling. In
designs such as the Mughal Sheraton Hotel, similar to the use
in traditional architecture, the courtyard and takhtabush are on
the ground level, and spaces are usually arranged around them
(Figure 4)
Name: Mughal Sheraton Hotel
Architect: Ravindra Bhan and Associates
Awards: Aga Khan Award for Architecture-
(1978-1980)
Location: Agra/India
References: (Edited by Sarbjit Bahga, 2019)
Figure 4 The first type of courtyard.
In buildings such as Amorepasific Headquarters, Menara
Mesiniaga, and Commerzbank Headquarters, spatial
evacuations were made on various floors to give courtyard
function to the spaces defined as sky courtyards (Figure 5).
Name: Amorepasific Headquarters
Architect: Sir David Chipperfield / The Pritzker
Architecture Prize / 2023
Awards: RIBA International Awards for Excellence
2021Short List
Location: Seoul/South Korea
References: (Edited by David Chipperfield Architects,
2017)
Name: Commerzbank Headquarters
Architect: Norman Foster / The Pritzker Architecture Prize
Location: Frankfurt/Germany
References:(Edited by Buchanan, 2012)
Figure 5 The twice type of courtyard
83 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
3.1.2 Iwan
One of the most essential advantages of the iwan is natural
ventilation and cooling. In places with low air velocity at
ground level, airflow is provided from the courtyard to the
iwan with the buoyancy effect. This airflow is transmitted to
the interior spaces, and cooling is provided (Figure 6)
(Sahebzadeh et al., 2017).
Figure 6 Iwan’s working principle
The projects within the scope of the study interpret it in three
different ways.
The second facades are designed to create intermediate
transition spaces in the first type. Salam Cardiac Surgery
Center and Lycee Schorge projects can be given as examples.
While the second facade designed in front of the building is half
open, it also has upper covers. The area between the two
facades can be characterized as an iwan. In this context, the
semi-open facade prevents solar radiation and dust
transportation more than the traditional iwan while also
providing ventilation, cooling, and insulation (Figure
7) (Gada, 2022; Kere Architecture, n.d.).
Name: Lycee Schorge Location: Koudougou/Burkina Faso
Architect: Francis Kere / The Pritzker Architecture Prize – 2022 References: (Edited by Lancaster, 2022)
Figure 7 The first type of ıwan
The Maaglive project interprets the iwan as a retractable
winter garden. This design can be defined as the second type
of adaptation. In this context, while the upper cover of the
winter garden provides shading when the facade is opened, it
can provide natural ventilation and cooling (Lacaton & Vassal,
2020). In addition to the traditional use of the iwan, the winter
garden can also be used for heating during cold winter (Figure
8).
Name: Maaglive Architect: Anne Lacaton and Jean-Philippe Vassal / The Pritzer Architecture Prize – 2021
Location: Zürich/Suisse References: (Edited by Lacaton & Vassal, 2020)
Figure 8 The twice type of ıwan
84 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
The third type of iwan adaptation is achieved through
circulation elements. In the UTEC-Universidad de Ingeneria y
Technologia project, horizontal circulation elements are
designed semi-open on the north facade. The deep horizontal
and vertical curtain walls protect these elements on the north
facade from solar radiation, allowing cool air to penetrate the
building without heating (Farrell et al., 2016). Using these
semi-open spaces on the north facade can be defined as another
modern interpretation of the iwan in traditional architecture
(Figure 9).
Name: UTEC-Universidad de
Ingeniería y Tecnología Awards:
RIBA International Prize 2016
Architect: Yvonne Farrell and Shelly
McNamara/ The Pritzer Architecture
Prize – 2020
Location: Lima/Peru
References: (Edited by Archdaily,
n.d.)
Figure 9 The third type of courtyard
3.2 Building Envelope
3.2.1 Openings
Kanchanjunga apartment can be cited as an example of the
modern interpretation of the dimensions, proportions, and
directions of the openings connected to the facade. In the
region where the prevailing wind direction is west, the
number of openings on the west and east facades of the
building is higher. This allows the wind coming from the west
facade to exit from the east facade through cross-ventilation.
The interior design is also designed to increase this ventilation.
The openings on the other facades have more depth and fewer
openings. This can protect from solar radiation (Fig 10).
Name: Kanchanjunga
Apartments
Architect: Charles
Correa / RIBA Royal
Gold Medal
Location: Mumbai/India
References: (Edited by
Özkan, 2009)
Figure 10 The first type of open ratio
In order to increase the cooling function of openings in the roof
or wall, various design features have been developed, which
differ from region to region. In Sistan, Iran, openings defined
as surak and daricheh (Sahebzadeh et al., 2017) were used. In
Erbil, Iraq (Algburi & Beyhan, 2019); Diyarbakir, Turkey; and
Al-Dakhla, Egypt, wall openings defined as taka, skylight, or
Arusha were designed (Hailu et al., 2021). In Es-Salt, Jordan,
openings are defined as shukhshaikhas (Almatarneh, 2013). In
addition to the windows on the upper level, grid-shaped
openings can also be seen on the upper level adjacent to the
main window. An example is the grid-shaped openings made
of plaster in Evora, Portugal (Figure 11) (Fernandes et al.,
2015).
85 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
Figure 11 Opening’s working principles
Roof openings can be used for ventilation and cooling purposes
in an integrated manner with wall openings. In some regions,
they are referred to by different names depending on their
structural characteristics. Examples include kolak in Sistan and
khishkhan in Yazd, Iran, chebbek in M'zab, Algeria, and a yi
wang in Gansu and Ningxia in northwest China (Bensayah et
al., 2019; Heidari et al., 2017; Liu et al., 2006; Sahebzadeh et
al., 2017).
Wall and roof openings in traditional architecture are often
reinterpreted in modern architecture for interior ventilation
and cooling. In addition to the normal use of windows, various
openings of different elevations and sizes have been designed.
Examples include Moulmein Rise, Startup Lions campus,
Lycee Schorge and Storey's Field Center, and Eddington
Nursery. In this context, it can be said that openness types are
interpreted in three different ways (Figure 12).
Name: Moulmein Rise
Architect: WOHA Architects
Award: Aga Khan Award for Architecture-
(2005-2007)
Location: Singapore/Singapore References:
(Edited by Zainab Faruqui Ali, 2003)
Figure 12 The first type of wall opening
In the first interpretation, a new design of the window opening
has been developed to allow the outdoor air to be transmitted
to the interior from the vertical surface and the horizontal
plane. This window system was developed in the Moulmein
Rise project. The lower horizontal windows and upper vertical
windows used in the apartments can serve as the main window
and skylight used in traditional architecture, providing
chimney-effective ventilation (WOHA Architects, 2007;
Zainab Faruqui Ali, 2003).
The second type is reinterpreted by integrating the wall and
the roof opening of the kolak type. Startup Lions Campus and
Lycee Schorge are examples of this. In the Lycee Schorge
project, a water element was added under the seating areas
consisting of hollowed concrete blocks in front of the facade
openings (Gada, 2022). In addition, roof openings were
designed to exceed the upper cover of the building. After
evaporative cooling is provided through the water entering
through the wall opening, the heated air is discharged through
the roof opening (Gonzalez, n.d.) This use is similar to the
Startup Lions project; no water element is used in the wall
opening (Figure 13) (WA Contents, 2021).
Name: Lycee Schorge
Architect: Francis Kere / The Pritzker Architecture Prize
Location: Koudougou/Burkina Faso
References: (Edited by Gonzalez, n.d.)
Name: Startup Lions Campus
Architect: Francis Kere / The Pritzker Architecture Prize
Location: Turkana/Kenya
References: (Edited by WA Contents, 2021)
Figure 13 The second type of wall and roof opening
86 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
The soil's heat could also be utilized in the third type of modern
adaptation. Storey's Field Center and Eddington Nursery
project is an example of this. A labyrinth system was designed
under the floor of the main hall of the building to provide
natural ventilation and cooling. The air drawn from the cool
courtyard is transmitted to this labyrinth without being
transmitted indoors. The air that hits the concrete walls of the
maze is further cooled using soil cooling. The cooled air is used
for indoor cooling. The air heated indoors is transmitted to the
outdoor environment through openings hidden in the roof
(Figure 14) (Hartman, 2018).
Name: Storey's Field Center and Eddington Nursery Awards: RIBA East Award 2018, RIBA East Sustainability 2018
Architect: MUMA Architect Location: Cambridge/United States
References: (Edited by Hartman, 2018)
Figure 14 The third type of wall and roof opening
3.2.2 Incoporate Passive Ventilation Systems
Traditional wind catcher, mashrabiya, jali, and kharkhona and
their modern interpretations are analyzed within the scope of
incorporate passive ventilation systems.
Wind Catcher
The outdoor air directed indoors by the wind catcher is
circulated indoors and then transferred to the outdoor
environment through another opening or the opening of the
wind catcher (Oropeza-Perez & Østergaard, 2018). These
devices work in two different ways depending on the buoyancy
effect of the outdoor wind and the temperature difference.
According to the first method, the wind is captured by the
wind catcher and cooled by the underground space, water or
directly by the tower of the wind chiller until it is transmitted
indoors. In the second method, the indoor space is cooled by
expelling the heated indoor air to the outdoor environment
through the wind catcher acting as a solar chimney, or the cold
outdoor air settles on the wind catcher (Figure 15) (Bahadori,
1978; Hassan et al., 2016; Saadatian et al., 2013). Especially
outdoor wind pressure is about 75% more effective than the
buoyancy effect. Therefore, the outdoor wind is significant
within the scope of microclimate (Hughes & Mak, 2011).
Egypt, Iraq, Iran, Iran, Qatar, Algeria, and Türkiye can be
given as examples of the regions where it is used (Bekleyen &
Melikoğ lu, 2019 and 2021; Bouchahm et al., 2011;
Ghaemmmaghami & Mahmoudi, 2005; Pirhayati et al., 2013;
Soflaee & Shokouhian, 2005).
Figure 15 Wind Catcher’s working principle
In the projects within the scope of the study, wind catcher have
been re-interpretated in five different types. In the first type,
it is interpreted as a chimney connected to all floors adjacent
to the building facade. BSkyB Broadcast Center and Pixel
Building can be given as examples. In the BSkyB Broadcast
Centre project, cold air is drawn indoors through adjustable
grilles that detach the building about 1 meter from the ground.
This air is distributed indoors through wall and ceiling
openings. The heated air inside the building rises and is drawn
into the ceiling space. The air drawn into the attic space is
transmitted to the ventilation shaft and discharged from there
(ArchDaily, 2013).
In the Pixel building project, the chimney-shaped opening
starts from the point exceeding the upper elevation of the roof
and captures the air from the outside environment. There are
87 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
heat exchangers to cool the captured air in hot seasons and heat
the captured air in cold seasons, and two fans transmit this air
to the interior. Once heated or cooled, the fresh air is
delivered indoors through openings in the floors of all office
rooms. In this way, ventilation, heating, and cooling are
provided. The air heated indoors is captured through the
chimney and openings in the upper levels of the interior spaces
and delivered to the outdoors through the second opening of
the chimney. The fans and heat exchangers used in this system
operate with deficient energy, and the necessary energy is
obtained from solar panels and wind turbines used on the roof
of the building (Figure 16) (Archilovers, 2012).
Name: BSKyB Broadcast
Centre
Awards: BREEAM
Excellent Certificate
Architect: Arup
Associates
Location: Londra/UK
References: (Edited by
ArchDaily, 2013)
Name: Pixel Building
Awards: 105 GreenStar+105
Leed Certificate
Architect: Studio 505
Location: Melbourne/Austria
References: (Archilovers,
2012)
Figure 16 The first type of wind catcher
In the interpretation defined as the second type, a vertical
cavity is created within the building itself, giving it the
characteristic of a wind channelizer. Wafra Wind Tower is an
example of this. In the center of the building, a chimney is
designed to continue from the ground floor to the top floor.
The hot air accumulated in the apartments is transmitted to
this chimney through openings and transferred to the external
environment through the chimney. On the other hand, clean
and high-density cool air collapses from the external
environment into this chimney and is transferred to the
apartments (Figure 17) (The Aga Khan Award for
Architecture, 2020).
Name: Wafra Wind Tower Awards: Aga Khan Award for Architecture-2020-2022 Cycle-Shortlisted
Architect: AGI Architect Location: Salmıya/Kuwait
References:(Edited by The Aga Khan Award for Architecture, 2020)
Figure 17 The twice type of wind catcher
In the third type, the opening between the double skin is used
as a wind catcher. Torre Agbar is an essential example of this.
In addition to the space between the walls, an opening was left
at the top of the building to allow the air accumulated between
the walls to escape. The second wall of the building is
composed of sunshades. As this facade heats up, it can draw the
heated air from the apartments and transmit it to the outside
environment through the overhead opening (Figure 18)
(Ateliers Jean Nouvel, 2006).
88 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
Name: Torre Agbar
Architect: Jean Nouvel / The Pritzker
Architecture Prize-2008
Location: Barcelona/Spain
References:(Edited by Architectuul.,
n.d.)
Figure 18 The third type of wind catcher
In the fourth type, a wind catcher is placed on top of the upper
cover, similar to traditional architecture. Cool air from the
outdoor environment is directed into the interior, and the air
heated indoors is transmitted to the external environment
through the building's wind catcher or other openings. The
BedZed project can be an example of this adaptation. The small
opening in the wind catchers consisting of two openings
receives the calm outdoor wind, while the large openings are
used to expel the heated air indoors. One of the most critical
design strategies is the ability of the wind catchers to rotate
according to the wind direction. In this way, wind catchers can
play an influential role in ventilation and cooling. The wind
catchers, which also play an active role in expelling the heated
air indoors, also take the heat of this air and ensure that it is
heated and transmitted indoors when the outdoor air is colder
than desired (Figure 19) (Hodge & Haltrecht, 2010).
Name: BedZed Architect: Bill Dunster
Awards: 2003 RIBA Stirlink Prize Location: Londra/UK References: (Edited by Enes, 2014)
Figure 19 The fourth type of open ratio
In the fifth type, unlike the fourth type, the wind catcher also
acts as a structural element of the building. It can be located at
different elevations, unlike the upper cover. George Davies
Centre is an essential example of this. With the help of grilles
placed in the structural elements that also serve as columns on
the ground floor of the building, the air is transmitted to the
pipes and the labyrinth system under the soil. With the help of
the soil, the air is cooled on hot summer days and transmitted
to the interior spaces through shallow floor slabs. The air
heated indoors is discharged through the courtyard. The cycle
is reversed during cold winter periods (Figure 20) (Ball, n.d.).
Name: George Davies Centre Architect: Bill Dunster
Awards: Breem Excellent Location: Leicester/UK References: (Edited by Ball, n.d.)
Figure 20 The fifth type of wind catcher
89 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
The wind catcher is reinterpreted as a solar chimney in the
sixth type. The Lycee Français Charles De Gaulle project is
an important example of this. In this project, outdoor air is
transmitted through openings close to the ground level to
pipes embedded in the ground floor slab. As this air, used for
indoor cooling, warms up, it is discharged from the solar
chimney to the outdoor environment through chimney-effect
ventilation. Cool air is delivered to the interior at night
through pipes buried in the ground, wall openings, and solar
chimneys to provide indoor cooling (Figure 21) (Transsolar,
2008).
Name: Lycee Français
Charles De Gaulle Awards:
Aga Khan Award for
Architecture-2011-2013
Cycle-Shortlisted
Architect: Transsolar
Location: Damascus/Syria
References:(Edited by
Transsolar, 2008)
Figure 21 The sixth type of wind catcher
Mashrabiya and Jali
Mashrabiya can be defined as a wooden frame that decorates
the building facade and covers the window opening (Bagasi et
al., 2021; Fathy, 1986). Air leaking through the small openings
of the mashrabiya can be directed into the interior space to
provide cooling (Bagasi et al., 2021). Jali can be defined as a
type of mashrabiya built of stone material (Figure 22a) (Prasad
et al., 2022). As a result of the examinations carried out within
the scope of the study, modern interpretations of mashrabiya
and jali are used in two types. The first type focuses on porous
building material. Kohan Ceram Central Office Building is an
important example of this. Perforated bricks and perforated
window shutters were used in this project. Ventilation and
cooling were provided through perforated bricks and shutters
(Figure 22b)(Hooba Design Group, n.d.).
Name: Kohan Ceram Central Office
Building
Architect: Hooba Design Group
Awards: RIBA International Awards
for Excellence
Location: Tehran/Iran
References: (Edited by ArchDaily,
n.d.)
Figure 22 a) Mashrabiya’s working principle, b) The first type of mashrabiya
The second type of adaptation is based on the porosity of the
outer wall of the double-skinned building. Doha Tower and
NMAAHC projects can be given as examples. Doha Tower is
surrounded by an outer shell of porous aluminum, inspired
(Boissiere, n.d.; The Aga Khan Award for Architecture,
2016). In the NMAAHC project, the facade is clad in porous
bronze metal. The pore density varies from region to region
depending on the solar radiation. Depending on where it is
used, the porosity prevents solar radiation from penetrating
the interior while providing cooling with natural ventilation
(Figure 23) (U.S. Green Building Council, 2022).
90 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
TYPE 2
Name: Doha Tower
Architect: Ateliers Jean Nouvel / The Pritzker
Architecture Prize Location: Doha / Qatar
References:(Edited by AJN, n.d.)
Name: NMAAHC Architect: David Adjaye / 2021 Royal Gold
Medal
Location: Washington / USA
References:(Edited by Castro, 2016)
Figure 23 The second type of mashrabiya
Kharkhona
Kharkhona is an evaporative cooling method used in the
traditional architecture of Sistan, Iran. Its use in another region
has yet to be identified. In Sistan traditional architecture,
where the prevailing wind direction is northwest, thorny
plants were piled in front of the openings of the rooms in this
direction, and water was sprayed on them. Kharkhona can
reduce the indoor temperature by about nine °C (Davtalab &
Heidari, 2021; Heidari & Davtalab, 2022).
A Honeycomb Interpretation can be shown as an example of a
modern interpretation of using the water retention feature of
external elements for evaporative cooling. The honeycomb
interpretation used as an evaporative cooling element has not
yet been used in an award-winning project (Figure 24).
However, it is included in the study as it is an important
modern adaptation of the traditional Kharkhona cooling
system
Name: A Honeycomb
Interpretation
Architect: Ant Studio
Location: New Delhi / India
References: (Edited by
Archello, n.d.)
Figure 24 The first type of kharkhona
It is formed by combining the elements of clay, earthenware,
and water. Due to their production material, earthenware pots
are constantly sprayed with water and can hold water. The fan
is placed on top of the system and powered by the electricity
generated by photovoltaic panels. This fan acts on the water
and provides evaporative cooling. In addition to the fan, the
hot air generated by the generators during operation can also
be directed to this system and used for evaporative cooling
(Archello, n.d.).
4. Conclusion
The main objective of this study is to provide a guide for
sustainable building design within the scope of modern
interpretations of traditional passive design strategies.
Ventilation openings in buildings used for natural ventilation
and cooling in hot and dry climates of traditional architecture
are included in the scope. Passive design strategies within this
scope were identified, and modern interpretations were
analyzed and evaluated within the scope of award-winning
projects. A total of 16 different strategies were identified
within the scope of the ventilation openings of the buildings.
Three of these strategies are grouped as semi-open spatial
discharge, and the remaining 13 are grouped within the scope
of the building envelope. Of the 13 strategies within the scope
of the building envelope, wind catcher, mashrabiya, jali, and
kharkhona are included in the internal passive systems sub-
heading. The remaining nine strategies are grouped as wall and
roof openings. In this context, it has been determined that the
traditional passive design strategies developed for natural
ventilation and cooling are primarily focused on wall and roof
openings. It was determined that 18 different types of
91 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
traditional natural ventilation and cooling strategies used in the
hot and dry climate region were adapted to modern
architecture. Within the scope of adaptation to modern
architecture, wind deflectors come to the fore with six
different types of use. The identified strategies are generally
used in an integrated manner similar to traditional
architecture.
This study can be defined as the first stage of a comprehensive
guide that can be created for modern interpretations of
traditional passive design strategies for hot and dry climates.
Further studies can be carried out that can be a guide for
modern interpretations of traditional passive design strategies
for different climates.
Acknowledgements
The research reported in this paper was carried out as part of
a project ( Architecture.24.009) entitled “Evaluation of
Architects’ Awarenedd of Passive Design Strategies in Hot and
Arid Climates”, funded by the Department of Scientific
Research Projects of Dicle University. The authors thank the
Department for funding the project.
References
Abdelkader, R., & Park, J. H. (2018). Sustainable building façades:
Modern usages of the traditional Mashrabiya. Open House
International, 43(2), 69–76. https://doi.org/10.1108/ohi-02-
2018-b0010
AJN. (n.d.). Doha High Rise Office Tower. Jean Nouvel Les Ateliers
Projects Contacts. Retrieved April 19, 2024, from
https://www.jeannouvel.com/en/projects/doha-9-high-rise-
office-tower/
Algburi, O., & Beyhan, F. (2019). Climate-responsive strategies in
vernacular architecture of Erbil city. International Journal of
Environmental Studies.
https://doi.org/10.1080/00207233.2019.1619324
Almatarneh, R. T. (2013). Sustainability lessons learnt from
traditional architecture: a case study of the old city of As-Salt, Jordan.
IOSR Journal Of Environmental Science, Toxicology And Food
Technology, 5(3), 100–109. https://doi.org/10.9790/2402-
053100109
Archdaily. (n.d.). Engineering and Technology University - UTEC /
Grafton Architects + Shell Arquitectos. Retrieved March 9, 2023,
from https://www.archdaily.com/792814/engineering-and-
technology-university-utec-grafton-architects-plus-shell-arquitectos
ArchDaily. (n.d.). Kohan Ceram Building / Hooba Design. Retrieved
March 7, 2023, from https://www.archdaily.com/943931/kohan-
ceram-building-hooba-design
ArchDaily. (2013, July 6). BskyB Sky Studios / Arup Associates.
Office Buildings. https://www.archdaily.com/382951/harlequin-
1-arup-associates
Archello. (n.d.). A Honeycomb Interpretation. Retrieved September
7, 2023, from https://archello.com/project/a-honeycomb-
interpretation
Archilovers. (2012). The Pixel Building Case Study.
https://cdn.archilovers.com/projects/4b28f524-bfac-47eb-93db-
cc44f16bd2e4.pdf
Architectuul. (n.d.). Torre Agbar. Retrieved March 28, 2023, from
https://architectuul.com/architecture/torre-agbar
Associated Architecta. (2016). The Centre for Medicine The
University of Leicester. Universities.
Ateliers Jean Nouvel. (2006). Torre Agbar.
https://www.arauacustica.com/files/noticias/pdf_esp_611.pdf
Azimi Fereidani, N., Rodrigues, E., & Gaspar, A. R. (2021). A
review of the energy implications of passive building design and active
measures under climate change in the Middle East. Journal of Cleaner
Production, 305. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2021.127152
Bagasi, A. A., Calautit, J. K., & Karban, A. S. (2021). Evaluation of
the integration of the traditional architectural element mashrabiya
into the ventilation strategy for buildings in hot climates. Energies,
14(3), 1–31. https://doi.org/10.3390/en14030530
Bahadori, M. N. (1978). Passive cooling systems in Iranian
architecture. In Renewable Energy: Four Volume Set (Vol. 238, Issue
2, pp. 144–155). https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315793245-10
Ball, S. (n.d.). The University of Leicester George Davies Centre.
Retrieved March 27, 2024, from
https://www.cpwp.com/education/george-davies
Bekleyen, A., & Dalkılıç, N. (2012). Design with climate- What can
we learn from the past to cope with climate in terms of design strategy
and usage style of courtyard houses? Middle-East Journal of Scientific
Research, 11(3), 357-366.
Bekleyen, A., & Melikoğ lu, Y. (2019). The examples of antique wind
catchers in Anatolia: Badgels of Sanliurfa. Art-Sanat, (12), 109-128.
https://doi.org/10.26650/artsanat.2019.12.0007
Bekleyen, A., & Melikoğ lu, Y. (2021). An investigation on the
thermal effects of windcatchers. Journal of Building Engineering,
34(May 2020). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobe.2020.101942
Bensayah, A., Bencheikh, H., & Abdessemed, A. (2019). Mzabite
Heritage in Southern Algeria: What Bioclimatic Lessons can be
Learned to Optimize Thermal Comfort? MATEC Web of
Conferences, 278, 1–9.
https://doi.org/10.1051/matecconf/201927804005
Berghout, B., & Forgues, D. (2020). Passive ambient comfort and the
interaction of vernacular strategies and devices in arid zone habitat
design: case of Biskra, Algeria. Advances in Building Energy
Research, 14(2), 277–304.
https://doi.org/10.1080/17512549.2019.1607775
Boissiere, O. (n.d.). Doha High Rise Office Tower.
http://www.jeannouvel.com/en/projects/doha-9-high-rise-office-
tower/
Bouchahm, Y., Bourbia, F., & Belhamri, A. (2011). Performance
analysis and improvement of the use of wind tower in hot dry climate.
Renewable Energy, 36(3), 898–906.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2010.08.030
Castro, F. (2016). Smithsonian National Museum of African
American History and Culture / Freelon Adjaye Bond/SmithGroup.
https://www.archdaily.com/794203/smithsonian-national-
museum-of-african-american-history-and-culture-adjaye-associates
Dabaieh, M., Wanas, O., Hegazy, M. A., & Johansson, E. (2015).
Reducing cooling demands in a hot dry climate: A simulation study
for non-insulated passive cool roof thermal performance in residential
buildings. Energy and Buildings, 89, 142- 152.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enbuild.2014.12.034
92 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
Davtalab, J., & Heidari, A. (2021). The effect of kharkhona on
outdoor thermal comfort in Hot and dry climate: A case study of
Sistan Region in Iran. Sustainable Cities and Society, 65(May 2020),
102607. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scs.2020.102607
dB(A))). (2010). Pixel Building. https://www.db-a.co/work/pixel-
building/
Edwards, Brian; Sibley, Magda; Hakmi, Mohammad; Land, P. (Ed.).
(2006). Courtyard Housing Past, Present & Future. Taylor&Francis.
Enes, M. (2014, December 13). BedZED London, United Kingdom.
Check the Sustainable Architecture Works around the World!
Ergün, R., & Akın, C. T. A Comparative Analysis of Traditional
Turkish Courtyards in Hot-Dry and Hot-Humid Climate. Journal of
Architecture and Planning , Vol. 36 (2) , pp. 253-267.
https://jap.ksu.edu.sa/sites/jap.ksu.edu.sa/files/users/user450/V
ol-36-2_2024-June/En02.pdf
Ergun, R. & Bekleyen, A. (2024) An architectural taxonomic
proposal for passive design strategies used in traditional architecture
of areas with hot and dry climates, Journal of Engineering Research.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jer.2024.05.019
Ernest, R., & Ford, B. (2012). The role of multiple-courtyards in the
promotion of convective cooling. Architectural Science Review,
55(4), 241–249. https://doi.org/10.1080/00038628.2012.723400
Farrell, Y., McNamara, S., Gerart Carty, & O’Sullivan, P. (2016).
New Campus for the University of Engineering and Technology
(UTEC) Grafton Architects Lima, Peru April 2015.
https://www.mchap.co/MCHAPprojects/New-Campus-for-the-
University-of-Engineering-and-Technology-(UTEC)
Fathy, H. (1986). Natural Energy and Vernacular Architecture:
Principles and Examples with Reference to Hot Arid Climates (W.
Shearer & A. A. Sultan, Eds.). The University of Chicago Press.
Fernandes, J., Mateus, R., Bragança, L., & Correia Da Silva, J. J.
(2015). Portuguese vernacular architecture: The contribution of
vernacular materials and design approaches for sustainable
construction. Architectural Science Review, 58(4), 324–336.
https://doi.org/10.1080/00038628.2014.974019
Foruzanmehr, A. (2015). People’s perception of the loggia: A
vernacular passive cooling system in Iranian architecture. Sustainable
Cities and Society, 19, 61–67.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scs.2015.07.002
Ghaemmmaghami, P. S., & Mahmoudi, M. (2005). Wind tower a
natural cooling system in Iranian traditional architecture. In
International Conference “Passive and Low Energy Cooling for the
Built Environment” (Vol. 10, Issue 2, pp. 71–76).
https://doi.org/10.1080/14733315.2011.11683938
Guillaud, H., Moriset, S., Munoz, N. S., Gutierrez, E. S., Correia,
M., Carlos, G. D., Viana, D., Gomes, F., Merten, J., & Fernando
Vegas, et al. (2014). Versus: Lessons from vernacular heritage for
sustainable architecture. In Versus: Lessons from vernacular heritage
to sustainable architecture. https://doi.org/10.1201/b17393-41
Hailu, H., Gelan, E., & Girma, Y. (2021). Indoor Thermal Comfort
Analysis: A Case Study of Modern and Traditional Buildings in Hot-
Arid Climatic Region of Ethiopia. Urban Science, 5(3), 1–35.
https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci5030053
Hartman, H. (2018, October 2). RIBA Stirling Prize 2018: Storey’s
Field Centre and Eddington Nursery by MUMA. Architects’ Journal.
https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/buildings/riba-stirling-prize-
2018-%E2%80%8Bstoreys-field-centre-and-eddington-nursery-by-
muma
Hassan, A. M., Lee, H., & Yoo, U. S. (2016). From Medieval Cairo
to modern Masdar City: Lessons learned through a comparative
study. Architectural Science Review, 59(1), 39–52.
https://doi.org/10.1080/00038628.2015.1015947
Heidari, A., & Davtalab, J. (2022). A Study of the Wind’s Role in
Shaping the Man-made Landscape of Sistan and the Methods of
Utilizing and Dealing with it Based on Historical Sources. Bagh-e
Nazar, 19(106), 39–50.
https://doi.org/10.22034/BAGH.2021.283839.4870
Heidari, A., Sahebzadeh, S., & Dalvand, Z. (2017). Natural
ventilation in vernacular architecture of Sistan, Iran; Classification
and CFD study of compound rooms. Sustainability (Switzerland),
9(6). https://doi.org/10.3390/su9061048
Hodge, J., & Haltrecht, J. (2010). BedZED seven years onThe impact
of the UK’s best known eco-village and its residents.
www.peabody.org.uk
Hooba Design Group. (n.d.). Kohan Ceram by Hooba Design Group.
Retrieved March 7, 2023, from https://mooool.com/en/kohan-
ceram-by-hooba-design-group.html
Hughes, B. R., & Mak, C. M. (2011). A study of wind and buoyancy
driven flows through commercial wind towers. Energy and Buildings,
43(7), 1784–1791.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enbuild.2011.03.022
IEA. (2021). Buildings: A source of enormous untapped efficiency
potential. https://www.iea.org/topics/buildings
Kimura, K. ichi. (1994). Vernacular technologies applied to modern
architecture. Renewable Energy, 5(5–8), 900–907.
https://doi.org/10.1016/0960-1481(94)90110-4
Kojok, F., Fardoun, F., Younes, R., & Outbib, R. (2016). Hybrid
cooling systems: A review and an optimized selection scheme. In
Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews (Vol. 65, pp. 57–80).
Elsevier Ltd. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2016.06.092
Lacaton & Vassal. (2020). Maaglive, Zürich. Projets / Projects.
https://www.lacatonvassal.com/index.php?idp=118
Lancaster, N. (2022, April 25). African Architecture Spotlight: Lycée
Schorge. https://brightguideafrica.com/african-architecture-
spotlight-lycee-schorge/
Liu, Y., Li, J., Liu, J., & Fu, Y. (2006). Passive design of traditional
buildings in the hot and arid regions in Northwest China. PLEA 2006
- 23rd International Conference on Passive and Low Energy
Architecture, Conference Proceedings, September, 6–8.
Manzano-Agugliaro, F., Montoya, F. G., Sabio-Ortega, A., & García-
Cruz, A. (2015). Review of bioclimatic architecture strategies for
achieving thermal comfort. Renewable and Sustainable Energy
Reviews, 49, 736–755.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2015.04.095
Mileto, C., Vegas, F., Llatas, C., & Soust-Verdaguer, B. (2021). A
sustainable Approach for the Refurbishment Process of Vernacular
Heritage: The Sesga House Case Study (Valencia, Spain).
Sustainability (Switzerland), 13(17).
https://doi.org/10.3390/su13179800
Oropeza-Perez, I., & Østergaard, P. A. (2018). Active and passive
cooling methods for dwellings: A review. Renewable and Sustainable
93 Ruşen Ergün & Ayhan Bekleyen - International Journal of Built Environment and Sustainability 11:3 (2024) 79–93
Energy Reviews, 82, 531–544.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2017.09.059
Özkan, H. C. (2009, December 3). Charles Correa – Kanchanjunga
Apartments, Cumballa Hill, Mumbai, 1970-1983. Identity Housing.
https://identityhousing.wordpress.com/2009/12/03/charles-
correa-kanchanjunga-apartments-cumballa-hill-mumbai-1970-
1983/
Pacheco, R., Ordóñez, J., & Martínez, G. (2012). Energy efficient
design of building:A review. Renewable and Sustainable Energy
Reviews, 16(6), 3559-3573.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2012.03.045
Pirhayati, M., Ainechi, S., Torkjazi, M., & Ashrafi, E. (2013).
Ancient Iran, the Origin Land of Wind Catcher in the World.
Research Journal of Environmental and Earth Sciences, 5(8), 433–
499. https://doi.org/10.19026/rjees.5.5671
Prasad, R., Tandon, R., Verma, A., Sharma, M., & Ajmera, N.
(2022). Jaali a tool of sustainable architectural practice:
Understanding the feasibility and usage. Materials Today:
Proceedings, 60, 513–525.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matpr.2022.01.424
Saadatian, O., Sopian, K., Salleh, E., Lim, C. H., Riffat, S.,
Saadatian, E., Toudeshki, A., & Sulaiman, M. Y. (2013). A review of
energy aspects of green roofs. Renewable and Sustainable Energy
Reviews, 23, 155–168.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2013.02.022
Sahebzadeh, S., Dalvand, Z., Sadeghfar, M., & Heidari, A. (2020).
Vernacular architecture of Iran’s hot regions; elements and strategies
for a comfortable living environment. Smart and Sustainable Built
Environment, 9(4), 573–593. https://doi.org/10.1108/SASBE-11-
2017-0065
Sahebzadeh, S., Heidari, A., Kamelnia, H., & Baghbani, A. (2017).
Sustainability features of Iran’s vernacular architecture: A
comparative study between the architecture of hot-arid and hot-arid-
windy regions. Sustainability (Switzerland), 9(5).
https://doi.org/10.3390/su9050749
Soflaee, F., & Shokouhian, M. (2005). Natural cooling systems in
sustainable traditional architecture of Iran. International Conference
“Passive and Low Energy Cooling for the Built Environment”,
Santorini , Greece, May, 715–719.
Suleiman, S., & Himmo, B. (2012). Direct comfort ventilation.
Wisdom of the past and technology of the future (wind-catcher).
Sustainable Cities and Society, 5(1), 8–15.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scs.2012.09.002
Taleghani, M., Tenpierik, M., & Dobbelsteen, V. Den. (2012).
Environmental Impact of Courtyards a Review and Comparison of
Residential Courtyard Buıldıngs In Dıfferent Clımates. Journal of
Green Building, 7(2), 113–136.
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.3992/jgb.7.2.113
Tavassoli, M. (2016). Urban Structure in Hot Arid Environments. In
The Urban Book Series (Vol. 1, Issue 1958).
The Aga Khan Award for Architecture. (2016). Doha Tower.
https://the.akdn/en/how-we-work/our-agencies/aga-khan-trust-
culture/akaa/doha-tower
The Aga Khan Award for Architecture. (2020). Wafra Wind Tower.
AKAA Project Finder. https://the.akdn/en/how-we-work/our-
agencies/aga-khan-trust-culture/akaa/wafra-wind-tower
Transsolar. (2008). Lycée Charles de Gaulle, Damascus, Syria.
Projects. https://transsolar.com/projects/damascus-lycee-charles-
de-gaulle
UNEP. (2020). Guidelines on Green Houses of Worship.
https://www.unep.org/resources/publication/guidelines-green-
houses-worship
University of Liecester. (2022, May 18). Leicester health research
recognised among best in the UK. News.
https://le.ac.uk/news/2022/may/ref-clinical-medicine
U.S. Green Building Council. (2022). Case Study: National Museum
of African American History & Culture.
https://www.usgbc.org/sites/default/files/NMAAHC%20Case%
20Study_November%202018_0.pdf
WA Contents. (2021, June 30). Kéré Architecture Designs
Educational Campus Featuring Tall Ventilation Towers In Kenya.
https://worldarchitecture.org/article-links/evffh/kr-architecture-
designs-educational-campus-featuring-tall-ventilation-towers-in-
kenya.html
Zainab Faruqui Ali, by. (2003). No1 Moulmein Rise.
https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/document?repid=rep1&type=pdf&d
oi=076b5773c136861146dc34a4704456bddb53dac3
