Week 6: Vernacular Architecture In Arid Climates Flashcards
Describe the characteristics of arid climates.
Arid climates are characterized by low rainfall and high temperatures, with significant diurnal temperature fluctuations. Daytime temperatures can reach up to 45 °C during the hot dry season, while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 15 °C.
How much of the world’s total area is classified as arid land?
Almost one-third of the total area of the world is classified as arid land.
Define aridity in the context of climate.
Aridity is expressed as a function of rainfall and temperature, indicating the dryness of a climate.
Describe the role of vernacular architecture in addressing climatic challenges.
Vernacular architecture evolved in the Arab world and other arid regions to solve climatic problems by changing the micro-climate, protecting from the elements, and achieving thermal comfort.
How does thermal mass function in building design?
Thermal mass is the ability of a material to absorb and store heat energy, allowing it to store heat during the day and re-radiate it at night, which is particularly effective in climates with a large diurnal temperature range.
Define the significance of thermal mass in arid climates.
Thermal mass is significant in arid climates as it helps to manage temperature fluctuations by storing heat energy during the day and releasing it at night, thus contributing to thermal comfort.
Describe the concept of introverted design in traditional Arabic houses.
Introverted design refers to the inward-looking plan of traditional Arabic houses, which focus on a central courtyard rather than an outward view to a front garden.
How does a central courtyard benefit extended family houses in arid climates?
A central courtyard provides shade and creates a micro-climate, enhancing comfort and livability in arid climates.
Define the typical window placement in traditional Arabic architecture.
Most windows in traditional Arabic architecture are located on the internal façades, emphasizing privacy and the inward focus of the design.
Describe the main elements of vernacular architecture in arid climates.
The main elements include compact design, narrow streets, and effective shading techniques, such as using bridge rooms to shade the streets.
How does shading contribute to the design of streets in arid climates?
Shading helps to reduce heat exposure and improve comfort in narrow streets, making the environment more livable in hot conditions.
Define the role of bridge rooms in the context of vernacular architecture.
Bridge rooms are used to create shaded areas over streets, providing relief from the sun and enhancing the overall comfort of outdoor spaces.
Describe the function of Mashrabiyah in vernacular architecture of arid climates.
Mashrabiyah serves to control the passage of light by preventing direct sunlight penetration and ensuring privacy, as it allows air circulation while obstructing the view from passersby.
How does Mashrabiyah contribute to comfort in arid climates?
By controlling light and providing shade, Mashrabiyah helps maintain cooler indoor temperatures, enhancing comfort in hot environments.
Define the significance of privacy in the design of Mashrabiyah.
The design of Mashrabiyah is significant as it ensures privacy for inhabitants by preventing outsiders from seeing inside, which is crucial in densely populated urban areas.
