Climate-Responsive Vernacular Mosque Design; Comparative Analysis Between Hot-Humid and Hot-Arid Regions
摘要
Vernacular Construction materials and techniques had been successfully inculcated into practice though it was not executed in high technology. Throughout this paper, we highlight how vernacular design supports the climate-responsive features used by the former generations in Mosques architecture and design. The features and elements remain relevant and adaptable in the contemporary era offering benefits to the future of the built environment without inflating costs or harming the natural surroundings. Climate-responsive vernacular plays a significant role in passive energy conservation. In this study, focus is given on the strategies employed by vernacular mosques in two distinct climate regions: hot-humid areas and hot-arid regions. In hot-humid climates, mosques utilize strategies such as ablution fountains and pools, natural cross-ventilation without mechanical systems, layered pitched roofs, and flexible floor plans for future expansion. Meanwhile, in hot-arid regions, strategies encompass wind catchers for indoor climate control, shading devices like mashrabiya and arabesque screens, and the incorporation of courtyards within the buildings. In the analysis, focus was on the success of modern mosques in integrating these vernacular strategies. Beyond addressing sustainability concerns, the adaptation of vernacular elements also addresses cultural and social issues, falling under the category of intangible heritage. Finally, in the results we highlight how ancient vernacular technology effectively sustained the environment in the past and continues to benefit contemporary technology today.