A review on Malay vernacular architecture ventilation design elements effectiveness and its application comparative case study: Rumah Kutai Tiang 12 (vernacular) and Rumah Selangorku (contemporary)

Abstract

Thermal comfort and ventilation needs of occupants have been achieved successfully with the perfect solution by means of Malay vernacular architecture design. Ventilation have always been a major design element that needs to be thoroughly planned especially in Malay vernacular architecture in order to provide thermal comfort to the occupants. Amongst the various factors that affects ventilation in Malay vernacular architecture are the availability of multiple windows and openings, orientation of the building, roof design as well as variety of floors that contributes to further enhance the thermal comfort of the occupants. Thus, modern development needs to incorporate the suitable elements and applications for ventilation based on the design solutions provided by the Malay vernacular architecture into their designs. A study on vernacular ventilation assists in reinstating the relevance of its application in providing the most efficient thermal comfort to the occupants. The main focus of this research paper is to investigate the applications and significance of ventilation in Malay vernacular architecture as it could further assists designers in the future to provide modern developments that are more feasible in its design specifically on its thermal comfort. This research will provide adequate case studies and ethnographic observations to further enhance the understanding of Malay vernacular architecture ventilation elements whereby the researcher would act as a participant during the process. This research is aimed to change future architects and designers approach in planning and designing more feasible ventilated contemporary buildings.