BIOCLIMATIC APPROACH : RELEVANCE IN PRESENT DAY CONTEXT

Abstract

This dissertation explores the relevance of the Bioclimatic Approach advocated by Victor Olgyay and Ken Yeang in present day context. This is done through literature review and case study comparisons to determine whether the rationale behind the approach remains valid and how applicable it in the urban world today. The literature review suggests that the main rationale, which is to achieve occupancy comfort with lower costs and energy consumption, remains valid and critical. The study suggests that the rationale of the Bioclimatic approach as an approach to regionalism is fundamentally one of design philosophy and not as a form driver. The case studies also suggest that with other factors for consideration, architectural designs in the same region can have significant difference in their formal expression. The study concludes that climate remains a regionalist driver of architecture and is manifested in climate responsive designs. It is, however, up to the discretion of the architect the extent in which climate is formally manifested and expressed. It is also important that a balanced be attained between performance and aesthetics. The literature review suggests that the Bioclimatic Approach is not fully applicable mainly due to the aesthetic imperative of architects, misconception about the nature of comfort and a simplistic approach to the design of a climate responsive architecture. The case studies also supports the findings of the literature review and suggests that an optimal climate responsive design obtained through the Bioclimatic Approach may not be entirely appropriate in the context of the urban environment and new understanding regarding the nature of comfort. The dissertation suggests some alterations to the Bioclimatic Approach.