TROPICAL

CLIMATES
Members:
Sopranes, Psalm Heaven
David, Jhames Virgil
Dela Torre, Angelo Laurenz
Deocaris, Kyla
Drapeza, Welanie
Esguerra, Cherry Ann
Estrada, Khris Allyson
IN ARCHITECTURE?

Tropical architecture works to achieve thermal comfort through

the use of design elements, such as sunshades, cavity walls,
light shelves, overhangs, roof and wall insulation and even
shading from trees.
TROPICAL CLIMATE
A climatic zone typically found in the equatorial
or tropical zone and characterized by high
temperatures throughout the year (i.e. with no
marked ‘winter’ season), generally high
humidity, and high precipitation, although the
latter may occur in a distinct rainy season.
THE PHILIPPINES
TAG-INIT (HOT, DRY SEASON)
March to May, brings scorching temperatures and
high humidity. Daytime temperatures can soar,
making outdoor activities uncomfortable.

TAG-ULAN (RAINY SEASON)

June to November, sees heavy rainfall and the
occasional typhoon. Flooding and landslides can be
a concern, especially in low-lying areas.

TAG-LAMIG (COOL, DRY SEASON

December to February, the Tag-lamig season
brings cooler and more comfortable weather. It's a
time for festivals and outdoor activities.
01.

HOT, HUMID CLIMATES

HOT, HUMID CLIMATE
DEFINITION
Hot, Humid climates are characterized by high temperatures and elevated levels
of moisture or humidity in the air. These climates are typically experienced warm to
hot temperatures year-round and have high relative humidity, often exceeding 60%
or more. This combination of heat and humidity can create uncomfortable and
sometime oppressive conditions, leading to a greater likelihood of heat-related
issues in a distinct feel of stickiness in the air. Hot, humid climates are common in
tropical regions nesr the equator and in coastal areas with warm ocean currents.
 CHARACTERISTICS

HIGH TEMPERATURE HIGH HUMIDITY RAINFALL

• These regions have high
• Significant rainfall is
• Hot and scorching experienced, either year-
temperatures are common, atmospheric moisture levels,
round or during distinct wet
often exceeding 30°C (86°F). resulting in muggy and
seasons.
sticky conditions.
• Relative humidity often
• This moisture contributes to
humidity and lush
exceeds 60% or even 80%.
vegetation.
 CHARACTERISTICS

TROPICAL TROPICAL
CLOUD COVER SEASONAL VARIATIONS
VEGETATION RAINSTORMS
• Humid climates feature • Considerable cloud cover • Some humid regions have • Many humid regions are
dense, lush tropical is often present, consistent heat and prone to tropical storms,
vegetation. providing relief from humidity year-round. hurricanes, or typhoons.
• There's a wide variety of intense sunlight but also • Others experience distinct • Warm ocean waters provide
plants, trees, and wildlife contributing to humidity. wet and dry seasons, often the necessary energy for
adapted to warm, wet associated with monsoons these storms to form and
conditions. or trade winds. intensify.
HUMAN COMFORT AND HEALTH
HEAT DISCOMFORT DEHYDRATION
01. •
•
High temperatures combined with high
humidity lead to extreme heat discomfort.
Sweating is less effective in humid
02. • Heat and humidity increase
sweating and fluid loss, leading
to dehydration.
conditions, impairing the body's ability to • Dehydration symptoms include
cool itself. dizziness, weakness, and
• This can result in feelings of extreme confusion.
discomfort, exhaustion, and heat-related • Severe dehydration can be life-
illnesses like heatstroke. threatening.

POOR SLEEP SKIN PROBLEMS

03.
• High humidity can disrupt comfortable
sleep.
• Sweating and discomfort during the
night lead to sleep disturbances.
• Poor sleep negatively affects overall
health and well-being.
04.
• Prolonged exposure to high
humidity can cause skin problems
like heat rash and fungal
infections.
• Constant moisture on the skin
creates a conducive environment
for these issues.
HUMAN COMFORT AND HEALTH

MENTAL HEALTH
05. • Extreme heat and discomfort contribute to
stress, irritability, and reduced overall
mental well-being.
• Prolonged exposure to such conditions
can also impact cognitive function.
CHALLENGES ARCHITECTS FACE
01. 02. 03.

HEAT & TYPHOON & CORROSION &

HUMIDITY CONTROL FLOODING RISK RUST

04. 05. 06.

VENTILATION & ACCESSIBILITY &

SOLAR HEAT GAIN
AIR QUALITY INCLUSIVITY
TROPICAL DESIGN
IN HOT, HUMID CLIMATES
 NATURAL VENTILATION
Emphasize natural ventilation in
building design to promote airflow
and reduce reliance on air
conditioning. Employ features like
large windows, louvers, and operable
openings to allow for cross-
ventilation.
SHADING AND SUN PROTECTION

Utilize shading devices such as

overhangs, eaves, and pergolas to
block direct sunlight and reduce heat
gain.
ELEVATED CONSTRUCTION

Elevate buildings on pilings or stilts to

mitigate the risk of flooding during
heavy rains and to allow for better
airflow beneath the structure.
 GREEN LANDSCAPING

Choose drought-resistant and native

plants for landscaping to minimize
water usage and maintain a pleasant
outdoor environment.
02.

HOT, DRY CLIMATES

HOT, DRY CLIMATE
DEFINITION

Hot, dry climates are characterized by high temperatures and low humidity
levels throughout the year. These regions receive minimal precipitation and often
feature vast expanses of arid landscapes, such as deserts and semi-arid areas. Hot,
dry climates can be found in various parts of the world, including parts of North
Africa, the Middle East, Australia, and some southwestern regions of the United
States.
 CHARACTERISTICS
X

EXTREME HEAT LOW HUMIDITY MINIMAL PRECIPITATION

• Daytime highs often exceed
• Low humidity levels result in
• Rainfall is scarce and
100°F (37.8°C). irregular, often less than 250
arid conditions.
• Can make outdoor spaces
• Rapid evaporation of
mm (10 inches) annually.
uncomfortable and even
moisture can lead to
• Prolonged droughts are
dangerous during the peak of common, leading to water
dehydration and discomfort.
the day. scarcity concerns.

HARSH SUNLIGHT TEMPERATURE EXTREMES

• Intense sunlight results in high • Daytime temperatures are
levels of solar radiation. extremely high.
• Can cause sunburn, heat-related • Nighttime temperatures can
illnesses, and accelerate drop significantly, creating a
building material deterioration. wide daily temperature range.
TROPICAL DESIGN
IN HOT, DRY CLIMATES
PASSIVE COOLING TECHNIQUES
Tropical design in hot, dry climates
often incorporates passive cooling
strategies to mitigate extreme heat.
This includes designing buildings
with natural ventilation systems,
shaded outdoor spaces, and strategic
placement of openings to capture
prevailing breezes.
USE OF LOCAL MATERIALS
Sustainable design principles
emphasize the use of locally sourced
materials. In hot, dry climates, this can
include materials that are heat-
resistant and suitable for arid
conditions, such as adobe or rammed
earth.
 WATER CONSERVATION
Given the water scarcity in these
regions, tropical design incorporates
water-efficient landscaping,
rainwater harvesting systems, and
low-flow plumbing fixtures to minimize
water usage.
SHADING AND INSULATION
To combat intense sunlight and
temperature fluctuations, buildings in
hot, dry climates often feature well-
designed shading devices, like
pergolas, overhangs, or brise-soleil.
Adequate insulation is also critical to
keep indoor spaces comfortable.
INTEGRATION WITH NATURE
Tropical design in arid regions aims
to harmonize with the natural
environment. This can involve the use
of native plants, xeriscaping
techniques, and designing structures
that blend seamlessly with the desert
landscape.
 ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Energy-efficient design is crucial to
reduce the energy demand for cooling and
lighting. This may include solar panels,
reflective roofing materials, and energy-
efficient appliances.
HUMAN COMFORT AND HEALTH

IMPROVED INDOOR COMFORT ENHANCED THERMAL COMFORT

01. • Passive cooling techniques like natural
ventilation and shading for comfortable
indoor temperatures.
• Adequate insulation and thermal mass
stabilize indoor temperatures, reducing
discomfort from temperature fluctuations.
02. • Properly designed shading and
building orientation prevent
excessive solar heat gain.
• Reflective roofing materials and
cool roof technologies reduce
indoor heat.

BETTER AIR QUALITY REDUCTION IN ENERGY COST

03. •
•
Natural ventilation systems improve
indoor air quality and respiratory health.
Well-designed buildings minimize dust
04. • Energy-efficient design, including
passive cooling and renewable
energy sources, lowers energy
and sand intrusion, common in arid
consumption and utility bills.
regions.
HUMAN COMFORT AND HEALTH
WATER EFFICIENCY &
HYDRATION MENTAL WELL-BEING
05. • Water conservation measures ensure
responsible water use, crucial for
06. • Integrating buildings with nature and
creating pleasing outdoor spaces
reduces stress and promotes
hydration in arid climates.
relaxation.
• Connection to the natural environment
improves overall quality of life.

SUSTAINABILITY AND COMMUNITY HEALTH AND

RESILIENCE RESILIENCE
07. • Sustainable design practices reduce
08. • Incorporating community gardens and
shared outdoor spaces fosters a sense of
environmental impact and contribute to community and social well-being.
long-term community resilience. • Sustainable water practices help safeguard
against water shortages and enhance
community resilience during droughts.
CHALLENGES ARCHITECTS FACE
01. 02. 03.

EXTREME HEAT & HUMIDITY TROPICL STORMS

SOLAR EXPOSURE VARIABILITY & TYPHOONS

04. 05. 06.

WATER SUSTAINABILITY & CULTURAL

MANAGEMENT ENERGY EFFICIENCY CONSIDERATIONS
CHALLENGES ARCHITECTS FACE
07. 08. 09.

URBANIZATION REGULATORY MATERIAL

& DENSITY COMPLIANCE SELECTION

10. 11.

COST INFRASTRACTURE
CONSTRAINTS INTEGRATION
 ARCHITECTURAL
CONSIDERATIONS
IN HOT, HUMID CLIMATES
VENTILATION AND AIRFLOW
EXHAUST VENTILATION
Blowing air out of a home
VENTILATION AND AIRFLOW
EXHAUST VENTILATION
Blowing air out of a home

SUPPLY VENTILATION
Blowing air into a home
VENTILATION AND AIRFLOW
EXHAUST VENTILATION
Blowing air out of a home

SUPPLY VENTILATION
Blowing air into a home

BALANCED VENTILATION
Blowing air both into and out of a
home
 SHADING AND SUN PROTECTION
SHADING DEVICES

AWNING WINDOWS OVERHANGS TRELLISES

SHADING AND SUN PROTECTION
EXTERIOR SHADING DEVICES
• Landscape features such as mature trees or hedge rows;
• Exterior elements such as overhangs or vertical fins;
• Horizontal reflecting surfaces called light shelves;
• Low shading coefficient (SC) glass; and,
• Interior glare control devices such as Venetian blinds or adjustable louvers.

Aluminum architectural sunshade, horizontal sun control device, vertical fins

SHADING AND SUN PROTECTION
DESIGNING SHADING SYSTEMS
SHADING AND SUN PROTECTION
EXAMPLE OF SIDE LANDSCAPE FEATURES THAT HELP TO CONSERVE ENERGY

Curtain wall and a light shelf in a second-floor library space Materials And Methods Of Construction
BUILDING ORIENTATION
DEFINITION
Orientation refers to the placement of a building on its site in relation to the sun's
path, prevailing winds, and other climate factors.

The orientation of the building | Hot and Humid climate

MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES
BEST BUILDING MATERIALS
MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES
BEST ROOF MATERIALS
MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES
BEST WINDOW AND DOOR MATERIALS
MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES
CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES

• Ensure Good Ventilation

• Large Openings With Deep Shading
• Avoid Flat Roofs
• Use Trees And Other Structures As Screens
• Building Orientation And Shape
• Thermal Comfort
• Materials Choice
• Enable Stack Ventilation
 ARCHITECTURAL
CONSIDERATIONS
IN HOT, DRY CLIMATES
HOT, DRY CLIMATE
DEFINITION
• The temperature in such areas varies between 27°C and 49°C during the day and
22°C at night.
• The humidity is low to moderate, and the skies are typically clear.
• Low humidity causes less rainfall, which reduces the number of plants in the area.
• There is not much wind, but when there is, it is hot and dusty.
• In this type of climate, the sky is typically clear and blue. Even so, occasionally,
dust storms fill the entire sky, producing an unbearable glare.
• Only thick leaves and thorny plants may easily survive here due to the extremely
loose and sandy soil, low humidity, and little rainfall.
PASSIVE COOLING STRATEGIES
Helps to maximize a building's inhabitants'
comfort and well-being while consuming the
least amount of energy possible. It adapts to
suit the local temperature and site
conditions. Making the most of the local
climate is essential when creating a passive
building.
PASSIVE COOLING STRATEGIES
KEY PASSIVE DESIGN STRATEGIES FOR HOT, DRY CLIMATES

BUILDING ORIENTATION VENTILATION &

& FORM OPENINGS

DAYLIGHTING
WALLS
& SHADING
PASSIVE COOLING STRATEGIES
KEY PASSIVE DESIGN STRATEGIES FOR HOT, DRY CLIMATES

ROOFING LANDSCAPING

WATER USE OF
(cooling element) MATERIALS
 WATER CONSERVATION
Water conservation in home landscapes is a
responsibility that falls on us all. Homeowners can
significantly reduce their water footprint by
implementing:
• efficient irrigation systems,
• practicing xeriscaping,
• using mulch,
• harvesting rainwater,
• grouping plants according to water needs and
• maintaining lawns wisely.
 SOLAR DESIGN
Includes both passive solar design and active solar
systems.
• Passive solar design does not require special
technology but employs certain design strategies to
optimize the heating effects of the sun when heat is
required, and for shade and natural ventilation when
cooling is important.
• Active solar systems include solar hot water systems
using the sun to provide hot water, and photovoltaic
(PV) panels which convert the sun’s rays into
electricity.
CASE STUDIES
CLARK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
NEW BUILDING, PAMPANGA

LOCATION: CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, PAMPANGA, CENTRAL LUZON

This modern airport terminal incorporates features to deal with the hot and dry
climate:
• Sustainable roofing
• Natural ventilation
• Energy-efficient lighting
ANVAYA COVE, BATAAN
LOCATION: MORONG, BATAAN (CENTRAL LUZON REGION)
Anvaya Cove is a well-known luxury residential development by Ayala Land.
While Bataan has a hot and dry climate, the project emphasizes a sustainable and
comfortable living environment:
• Natural landscaping
• Low-impact design
• Water features
• Low-rise architecture
• Use of local materials
• Passive cooling
AVIDA SETTINGS NUVALI, LAGUNA
LOCATION: NUVALI, SANTA ROSA, LAGUNA (CALABARZON REGION)
Avida Settings Nuvali is a residential development located in the Laguna area. It
focuses on sustainability and comfort in a hot and humid climate:
• Passive design
• Shading elements
• Green spaces
SILIMAN UNIVERSITY LIBRARY, DUMAGUETE
LOCATION: DUMAGUETE CITY, NEGROS ORIENTAL, CENTRAL VISAYAS
The Silliman University Library is an example of a sustainable architectural
project in a hot and humid climate:
• Passive cooling
• Reflective roofing
• Landscaping
CONCLUSION