Design guidelines for warm arid villages

DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR VILLAGES IN WARM-ARID MOROCCO
[ Architectural Association School | Thesis ]

LOCATION Marrakech, Morocco
YEAR 2016
ADVISOR(S) Simos Yannas
Individual

Keywords | Passive design, vernacular architecture, earth construction

The traditional earthen courtyard houses of rural areas around Marrakech, Morocco have long satisfied the needs of local communities. The recent supply of electricity and water greatly changed the habits of the villagers and the way they utilize their homes. Since then, a growing number of families invest their savings in either “modernizing” their courtyard houses or relocating into newly built two-story townhouses. In both cases, the new constructions rely solely on the use of hollow concrete blocks and cement. These construction materials are perceived by the locals as more structurally sound, waterproof, and modern. However villagers unanimously express dissatisfaction with the new spaces due to poor thermal comfort and air quality.

My master’s thesis evaluated the environmental and social impact of these modern constructions, comparing them to traditional earthen courtyard houses. Dynamic computational simulations, on-site measurements, and interviews revealed the the new typology’s subpar performance. Measurements revealed high diurnal temperature variations, poor natural ventilation, and very low levels of daylight. Given that residents cannot afford HVAC systems, these concrete houses lead to intense discomfort year-round.

This thesis suggests a return to traditional earthen construction and the courtyard typology to restore comfort by regulating each house’s microclimate. Revival, however, must account for contemporary social behaviors and household equipment.