Natural energy and vernacular architecture

Book · Wed Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1986

OSTI ID:6094230

Fathy, H

This volume presents insights into the indigenous architectural forms in hot arid climates. The author presents his extensive research on climate control, particularly in the Middle East, to demonstrate the advantages of many locally available building materials and traditional building methods. He suggests improved uses of natural energy that can bridge the gap between traditional achievements and modern needs. He argues that various architectural forms in these climates have evolved intuitively from scientifically valid concepts. Such forms combine comfort and beauty, social and physical functionality. He discusses that in substituting modern materials, architects sometimes have ignored the environmental context of traditional architecture. As a result, individuals may find themselves physically and psychologically uncomfortable in modern structures. His approach, informed by a sensitive humanism, demonstrates the ways in which traditional architectural forms can be of use in solving problems facing contemporary architecture, in particular the critical housing situation in the Third World.

• OSTI ID: 6094230
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

32 ENERGY CONSERVATION, CONSUMPTION, AND UTILIZATION
320107* -- Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization-- Building Systems-- (1987-)
AESTHETICS
ARCHITECTURE
ARID LANDS
BUILDING MATERIALS
BUILDINGS
CLIMATES
CONSTRUCTION
DECISION MAKING
DESIGN
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
ENERGY CONSERVATION
INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS
MATERIALS
MIDDLE EAST
PSYCHOLOGY
RESEARCH PROGRAMS
SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS
THERMAL COMFORT