Examining the Thermal Performance of Vernacular Houses in Asir Region of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the superior thermal performance of traditional mud architecture over contemporary concrete block construction. The case study consists of two adjacent buildings representing the two building techniques that are located in the Asiri highlands, KSA. The research employed multi-field study techniques that include observation, as well as objective and subjective assessments. The objective assessment measured the different factors affecting the thermal comfort inside the case study houses by using a data logger and handheld equipment. The subjective assessment aimed to measure the response of the occupants by using semi-structured interviews and self-directed questioners. The results will be a further stepping-stone in motivating people to find value in their heritage and to preserve, reuse and reinhabit their houses while also stressing the importance to pass traditional knowledge to younger generations. The results showed a better performance for the vernacular houses while showed significant importance of adopting the passive strategies even with the new concrete houses.