Date of Award

2020

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Social Sciences

First Advisor

Brain, David

Area of Concentration

Environmental Studies

Abstract

Thermal comfort through vernacular architecture is explored through the use of a literature review and three cases studies, focusing on Malaysia, Florida, and Iran. The authors reviewed in the literature review agree that we can learn important lessons from vernacular architecture regarding simple, proven techniques for increasing the thermal comfort of building’s inhabitants without relying on high energy-consumptive mechanical systems. The case studies revealed there are several common cooling methods recommended across the different hot climates examined, including shading and natural ventilation. A design portfolio of passive cooling technologies and a final building design in Florida’s climate were proposed to provide a guide for future designers and laypeople exploring passive cooling options. The findings suggest that vernacular architecture has the ability to provide thermal comfort to its inhabitants without the use of mechanical cooling methods.

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