DON HONORIO VENTURA STATE UNIVERSITY

Cabambangan, Villa de Bacolor, Pampanga Philippines

Tel No. (6345)458 0021; Fax (6345)458 0021 Local 211
URL: http://dhvsu.edu.ph
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE
[email protected]

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE
[email protected]

Course Code : TROPDSGN 322

Course Title : Tropical Design
Year and Section : BSAR 3E, 3F, 3G
Course Instructor : KAREN CRISTY V. TUMANG, RLA, RMP, EnP ([email protected])
Module : No. 5

A. Course Description:

− Techniques for the design and planning of buildings within the technological and social constraints prevailing in the hot-
humid.
B. Course Outcomes:
By the end of this module, students will be able to:
1.0 Understand the significance of climate in the design process.
2.0 Illustrate different processes and instruments that may be applied in climate-responsive design.
3.0 Explain different concepts and theories of tropical design.
4.0 Apply tropical design concepts in an architectural design problem.
C. Module Content:

− This lecture covers techniques for the design and planning of buildings within the technological and social constraints
prevailing in the hot-humid tropics. It includes an introduction to environmental and climatic design, climatic design
factors, and their applications in tropical architecture.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

INTRODUCTION

Hot-dry climates, commonly found in desert regions, pose unique challenges for architects and designers. These regions are
characterized by extreme temperature variations between day and night, intense solar radiation, low humidity, and minimal precipitation.
Effective architectural design in such environments must focus on minimizing heat gain, promoting passive cooling, and optimizing energy
efficiency while ensuring occupant comfort.

A. MAJOR HOT AND DRY CLIMATE REGIONS

1) Sahara Desert (Africa) – The largest hot desert in the world.

2) Arabian Desert (Middle East) – Covers parts of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, and Jordan.

3) Thar Desert (India & Pakistan) – The Great Indian Desert.

4) Kalahari Desert (Southern Africa) – A semi-arid region in Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa.

5) Sonoran & Mojave Deserts (North America) – Located in the U.S. and Mexico.

6) Atacama Desert (South America) – One of the driest places on Earth.

7) Australian Outback – Includes the Great Victoria and Simpson Deserts.

Data Privacy Notice

This module is intended solely for the currently enrolled students of DHVSU-CEA-AR-TROPDSGN322-TROPICAL DESIGN of BSAR
3E, 3F, 3G under Ar. Tumang. Sharing, distributing, or disclosing any part of this activity to other students or unauthorized individuals
is strictly prohibited. Unauthorized dissemination may compromise the integrity of the educational process and violate data privacy
regulations.
Page 1 of 6
 B. CHARACTERISTICS OF HOT-DRY CLIMATES

1) High Temperatures- Daytime temperatures often exceed 40°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop
significantly.

2) Low Humidity- The air is dry, resulting in high evaporation rates and increased risk of dehydration.

3) Intense Solar Radiation- high levels of energy from the sun that reach the Earth's surface, minimal cloud
cover to block sunlight.

Prolonged sun exposure can cause extreme heat buildup in buildings and outdoor
spaces.

4) Scarce Rainfall- descending air, which prevents cloud formation and leads to clear skies and dry
conditions.

Many deserts are located far from oceans or large water bodies, meaning there is
little moisture available to form clouds.
Limited precipitation means water conservation is essential.

5) Strong Diurnal Temperature Variation-A significant difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures offers
opportunities for passive cooling strategies.

6) Sparse Vegetation- Natural shading from trees is often minimal, making artificial shading crucial.

Due to extreme environmental conditions that make it difficult for plants to grow
and survive.
▪ Limited Water Availability

▪ Poor Soil Conditions

▪ Extreme Temperatures

▪ Wind & Soil Erosion

6.1) Desert Plants:

− Succulents (e.g., Cacti) store water in their stems.
− Deep-rooted plants (e.g., Mesquite trees) tap into underground water.

C. DESIGN CHALLENGES IN HOT-DRY CLIMATES

1) Excessive Solar Heat Gain- Direct sun exposure increases indoor temperatures and cooling loads.

2) Glare and Harsh Lighting- Bright sunlight can cause discomfort and visual strain.

3) Limited Water Availability- Sustainable water use is essential for both construction and landscaping.

4) Indoor Thermal Comfort- Without proper design, buildings can become uncomfortably hot during the day
and too cold at night.

5) Energy Consumption- Over Reliance on mechanical cooling systems leads to high energy demand and
costs.

Data Privacy Notice

This module is intended solely for the currently enrolled students of DHVSU-CEA-AR-TROPDSGN322-TROPICAL DESIGN of BSAR
3E, 3F, 3G under Ar. Tumang. Sharing, distributing, or disclosing any part of this activity to other students or unauthorized individuals
is strictly prohibited. Unauthorized dissemination may compromise the integrity of the educational process and violate data privacy
regulations.
Page 2 of 6
 D. DESIGN OBJECTIVES AND STRATEGIES

1. Minimizing Heat Gain

● Building Orientation and Layout

o Position buildings to reduce exposure to the most intense sun angles (typically east and west).

o Use compact and low-rise forms to reduce the surface area exposed to direct sunlight.

● Shading Strategies

o Incorporate deep overhangs, pergolas, and recessed windows to block direct sun.

o Use vegetation, such as vines and trees, to create natural shading.

● Reflective and High-Albedo Materials

o Apply light-colored or reflective coatings on roofs and walls to reduce solar absorption.

o Use materials like whitewashed plaster, ceramic tiles, and polished stone.

2. Enhancing Natural Ventilation and Cooling

● Cross Ventilation

o Optimize window placement to facilitate airflow and remove trapped heat.

o Use large openings on the windward side and smaller openings on the leeward side to create pressure
differentials that drive air circulation.

● Wind Towers and Courtyards

o Traditional techniques such as wind catchers (badgirs) channel cool air into buildings.

o Central courtyards create microclimates that promote air movement and cooling.

● Ventilated Roofs and Double-Skin Facades

o Roof spaces with air gaps allow heat dissipation before it enters the building.

o Double-skin facades with airflow channels reduce direct solar gain.

3. Utilizing Thermal Mass and Insulation

● Thick, Insulated Walls

o Heavy materials like adobe, rammed earth, and stone absorb heat during the day and release it at night,
stabilizing indoor temperatures.

o External insulation further reduces heat penetration.

● Thermal Buffer Zones

o Incorporate spaces such as covered patios, verandas, and enclosed porches to moderate heat gain.

● Earth-Sheltered Construction

o Partially bury buildings to leverage the earth's thermal stability, reducing cooling loads.

4. Water Conservation and Management

● Rainwater Harvesting

o Collect rainwater for irrigation and non-potable uses.

● Greywater Recycling
Data Privacy Notice

This module is intended solely for the currently enrolled students of DHVSU-CEA-AR-TROPDSGN322-TROPICAL DESIGN of BSAR
3E, 3F, 3G under Ar. Tumang. Sharing, distributing, or disclosing any part of this activity to other students or unauthorized individuals
is strictly prohibited. Unauthorized dissemination may compromise the integrity of the educational process and violate data privacy
regulations.
Page 3 of 6
 o Reuse wastewater for landscape irrigation.

● Drought-Resistant Landscaping

o Implement xeriscaping with native plants to minimize water demand.

▪ Key features of xeriscape

⮚ Drought-tolerant plants (e.g., succulents, cacti, native shrubs)

⮚ Minimal or no lawn areas (grass requires too much water)

⮚ Efficient irrigation systems (drip irrigation instead of sprinklers)

⮚ Mulching to retain soil moisture

⮚ Use of rocks, gravel, and sand for decorative and functional purposes

⮚ Soil improvement to enhance water retention

5. Indoor Comfort and Livability Enhancements

● Daylighting and Glare Control

o Use small, strategically placed windows with external shading to reduce glare while maximizing daylight.

o Light shelves can help direct natural light deeper into interiors.

● Cool Colors and Reflective Surfaces

o Light-colored interior finishes help create a cooler and more comfortable indoor environment.

● Evaporative Cooling Features

o Water elements like fountains and shallow pools enhance localized cooling through evaporation.

6. Sustainable Energy and Material Use

● Solar Energy Utilization

o Install photovoltaic panels for on-site renewable energy generation.

● Energy-Efficient Cooling Systems

o Implement high-efficiency HVAC systems designed for extreme climates.

● Locally Sourced Materials

o Use regionally available materials to reduce environmental impact and improve thermal performance.

E. CASE STUDIES AND EXAMPLES

1. Vernacular Architecture: The Mashrabiya in the Middle East

− The Mashrabiya is a traditional wooden lattice screen used in Middle Eastern architecture. It provides shading,
controls airflow, and allows privacy while reducing heat gain and glare.

2. The Courtyard Houses of Iran

− Traditional Persian courtyard houses feature thick walls, shaded courtyards, and wind towers to create
naturally cooled microclimates.
Data Privacy Notice

This module is intended solely for the currently enrolled students of DHVSU-CEA-AR-TROPDSGN322-TROPICAL DESIGN of BSAR
3E, 3F, 3G under Ar. Tumang. Sharing, distributing, or disclosing any part of this activity to other students or unauthorized individuals
is strictly prohibited. Unauthorized dissemination may compromise the integrity of the educational process and violate data privacy
regulations.
Page 4 of 6
 3. The Earth-Sheltered Architecture of New Mexico

− Adobe houses in the southwestern United States utilize thermal mass and passive cooling strategies to
maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

4. Contemporary Sustainable Desert Architecture: The Masdar City Project (UAE)

− Masdar City incorporates modern sustainable strategies, such as photovoltaic shading, wind towers, and
energy-efficient building materials, to create a low-carbon urban environment in a hot-dry climate.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

I. Course Assessment:

− Students are required to individually submit all activities, reports, and subject requirements in person. They must
demonstrate a thorough knowledge and understanding of the course content as outlined in the modules, which will aid them
in answering the exercises. Students are expected to comprehend and apply the material, considering the attainment of
the course outcomes. Successful completion of all required submissions is crucial, as the course outcomes contribute to
the attainment of specific graduate attributes.

II. References:

− Olgyay, V. (1963). Design with Climate: Bioclimatic Approach to Architectural Regionalism. Princeton University Press.
− Koenigsberger, O. H., Ingersoll, T. G., Mayhew, A., & Szokolay, S. V. (1973). Manual of Tropical Housing and
Building: Climatic Design. Longman.
− Givoni, B. (1994). Passive and Low Energy Cooling of Buildings. Van Nostrand Reinhold.
− Fathy, H. (1986). Natural Energy and Vernacular Architecture: Principles and Examples with Reference to Hot Arid
Climates. University of Chicago Press.
− Szokolay, S. V. (2004). Introduction to Architectural Science: The Basis of Sustainable Design. Routledge.
− United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2007). Buildings and Climate Change: Status, Challenges, and
Opportunities. UNEP.
− Al-Hinai, H., Batty, W. J., & Probert, S. D. (1993). "Vernacular Architecture of Oman: Features That Enhance Thermal
Comfort Achieved Within Buildings." Applied Energy, 46(1), 23-46.

Arranged By:

DARLENE MAE C. NEPOMUCENO, RLA

Course Instructor: BSAR 3A

Utilized By:

CHERRYBEL L. CASTRO, RLA

Course Instructor: BSAR 3B, 3C,3D, 3H, 3I, 3J

KAREN CRISTY V. TUMANG, RLA, RMP, ENP

Course Instructor: BSAR 3E, 3F, 3G
Data Privacy Notice

This module is intended solely for the currently enrolled students of DHVSU-CEA-AR-TROPDSGN322-TROPICAL DESIGN of BSAR
3E, 3F, 3G under Ar. Tumang. Sharing, distributing, or disclosing any part of this activity to other students or unauthorized individuals
is strictly prohibited. Unauthorized dissemination may compromise the integrity of the educational process and violate data privacy
regulations.
Page 5 of 6