Exploring The Ideas of Tropical Architecture Upon The Application of

Passive Design in a Residence

A Case Study in Tropical Architecture
Author/s: #186283

Abstract: Building structure alone may impact energy usage by 10% to 15% on a typical construction project. When one
adds in the effect of glass, which may have a 15 to 25% impact on building performance, users get a bad
combination. When daylight performance is taken into account, designers can design buildings that provide a
far better occupant experience at no additional expense. This paper aims to identify different elements and
indicators in applying the concept of Tropical Architecture and Sustainable Development of the subject
residence. Proper housing orientation determines the appropriateness and the relation of the Sun Path and
Wind Diagram with the building position. While the materials being identified in the paper is very impactful to
the comfort level of the inhabitants. Green Architecture has been practiced in every place especially in city
urban planning, but for some reason, provincial residences have not lived to practice the essence of sustainable
design and construction. Finally, an energy-efficient residence will provide people with more comfort and fewer
operating expenses, as well as a better market value.

Keywords: sun path, residence, sustainability, tropical architecture, wind diagram, green architecture

INTRODUCTION

Tropical architecture may be thought of as a form of green architecture primarily for understanding the
relationship of tropical conditions upon applying design considerations, with the goal of reducing energy
usage, notably thermal efficiency, through the appreciation of different structural styles and orientations.
The ideology of tropical architecture was never unusual to be an issue because many architects believe that
it is the best solution for buildings and structures that are part of the community to withstand natural
phenomena. Through several generations, countries all over the world have evolved their own architectural
style and continue to adapt vernacular designs that conform to their climatic conditions.

The warm and sunny atmosphere in tropical locations may cause severe issues, however, the weather
patterns are more acceptable owing to the principles of tropical architecture. Because tropical areas have
significant levels of rainfall and humidity, as well as year-round sunlight, evening temperatures often vary
from 25-27°C, while nighttime temperatures range from 25-30°C. Not only does this situation have an
impact on the inhabitants and their culture in tropical areas, but it also has an impact on how they construct
their homes and other structures.

Tropical design is a subtopic of Tropical Architecture that refers to the systematic positioning of elements in
architecture to give protection from the climates' distinctive weather conditions. Take into account that the
Filipino design style prioritizes open, spacious, and light living spaces. Tropical architecture aims to
provide thermal comfort by incorporating passive design components. To shield the sun, architectural
dwellings would be constructed with sunshades, overhangs, hollow walls, and light shelves. As an extra
layer of protection, roof and wall insulation would be implanted.

To combat high temperatures, a stylish design was developed, which merges in with nature in a pleasing
manner while also considering sustainability, cultural influences, and, most significantly, a mechanical
approach to establishing an architectural identity. As to relate the information with the subject of this
research which includes the private residence of the author, the residence itself faces many errors to be
considered as an opposition to the concept of Tropical Architecture. At the same time, appropriate
arrangement of some design considerations and elements are utilization with the structural orientation,
comfort level, building form, and energy efficiency.

The aim of this research is to identify the design considerations and orientation of the private residence to
accumulate the proper conceptualization of Tropical Architecture including the analysis on the Sun Path and
Wind diagram to inspect proper positioning, to determine the level of thermal comfort, to evaluate exterior
spaces and building form. At the end of the study, the researcher should be able to determine the factors
responding to the rule of Tropical Architecture as applied or not into the residential structure

1.1 Research Method

The descriptive qualitative approach was employed in this study, which involved examining the structure
and documenting observations and physical conditions. As shown in table 1, evaluations are focused on the
size and orientation of structures, roofing, ceiling, walls, ventilation, shadowing, and landscaping. The
information gathered was then compared to theories in order to determine the relationship and description
of the tropical architecture concept's implementation in structures. After establishing the relation, the next
step is to describe the corresponding elements present in the residence.

Table 1. Scope of Research

Structural Element Indicator

Building Orientation Sun Path and Wind Diagram

Roof Roof Shape and Material

Ceiling Ceiling Elevation and Material

Wall Material Properties

Ventilation Orientation and Location

Shadowing Sun Path

Landscape Position of the Structure

1.2 Proper Orientation in Relation to Wind Direction and Solar Path

The practice of orienting a structure in order to optimize certain elements of its environment, such as
street favorability, capturing a scenic view, drainage issues, and so on, is known as building orientation.
With escalating energy costs, it's more vital than ever for architects to position structures such that they may
make use of the Sun's limitless energy. The value and practicability of a residence will be enhanced by
orienting it to take advantage of the Sun's energy. It will improve residents' interior comfort while also
lowering their energy expenses. As a result, building orientation, as well as natural lighting and thermal
mass, are important aspects of passive solar planning that may be integrated into almost any modern home
design.

Figure 1. Sunlight and Array Orientation

The location of the house is on land near a sea with surrounding houses from all directions of the actual
position of the house. The residence faces the south having a rectangular plan, and it is a two-story house.
There are six windows facing the south, five windows facing west, two windows facing north, and no
windows facing east. South-facing windows get little to no sunlight in summer times and should be kept
modest to reduce heat loss while yet allowing for scattered or reflected light and air. East-facing windows
collect morning sun and may be adjusted for light, heat management, and ventilation in the summer. The
window location must be carefully examined to prevent glare on working surfaces, especially, if there is an
east-facing kitchen or study that is utilized first thing in the morning. Since the kitchen is located on the
right portion of the house whereas the living room on the left portion of the ground floor is the one
containing a window facing the west, the kitchen is situated on the east axis, but facing the west, containing
no windows to receive sunlight. This situation avoids sunlight directed to the kitchen because it is away
from any windows, also, the kitchen is placed in a parallel axis to the east axis.

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 Figure 2. Second Floor West-Facing Window

The photo was taken at 5:03 PM and it depicts that the sun is about to set down, no afternoon sunlight is
received by the north-facing window. The afternoon sun always lands in the west portion that giving light
and beautiful sunset that can be seen on the south-facing windows before it sets down due to the near winter
season. As observed in the first figure, in winter seasons and or near winter seasons, the sun starts from the
east, faces the south windows by afternoon, and lands on the west before it completely sets down.

Figure 3. Second Floor South-Facing Window

Figure 4. Second Floor North-Facing Window

Because the Sun's precise location is a key impact in solar heat in structures, correct building orientation is
a critical concern in passive solar design. Most significantly, the ridgeline of a rectangular home should run
east-west to optimize the length of the southern side, which should have appropriately installed windows.
As a result, on the northern side of the home, fewer windows should be installed. A deep roof overhang, as
well as various types of shade plants and shrubs, can provide shade for the few windows in the area which
would give the place a high comfort level to allow cooler wind flow.
Orientation is not only about the position of one's residence in connection to the sun path, but also to the
prevailing wind in the area. It also refers to how a structure is positioned in reference to the sun's movement
throughout the year as well as prevailing wind patterns. It is indeed about how living and sleeping places
are constructed and set up to take advantage of or avoid the impacts of the wind and sunlight in passive
design.

Figure 5. Wind Direction

Cool breezes are occurring from a variety of directions depending on the region, and the residence is near
the seaside, so breezes are usually onshore. In mild or freezing climates, the orientation shown in the
diagram maximizes late afternoon solar benefits while still allowing the early sun in the cold season. It
blocks the sun from west and south-facing windows in the summer and reduces exposures to westerly winds
while yet allowing for acceptable air access. Extensive planting to the west shades and shields the walls
from the hot summer sun and the chilly winter winds.
Shade plantings to the west are placed as it is required in warm areas to decrease solar gains over
south-facing windows in the warmer months and to shelter the house from westerly winds. Shade plantings
on the east are also necessary for hotter regions, but they should not obstruct wind. Clerestory windows
along the house's spine can provide more sunlight and a breeze to sleeping rooms, but the residence was
constructed without clerestory windows, this made the interior very hot especially in summer. It provides
for passive solar heating of living spaces during the daytime and cooler, southern sleeping areas at night in
cold environments. A thermal mass wall dividing these zones would distribute solar warmth to sleeping
rooms in cooler climates.
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1.3 Comfort Level

The development of environments that promote physical and mental well-being is strongly tied to the
concept of comfort. It refers to environmental qualities such as noise level and temperature in architectural
terms, this also includes the safety and security of the inhabitants. In this section, the goal is to identify the
indicators for each element such as ceiling, walls, and shadowing.

Ceilings aid in the protection and division of spaces, as well as the regulation of light and sound absorption
within a room and the prevention of sound transmission between rooms. They are resistant to fire and can
conceal ducts, pipes, and cables while still accommodating building services like ventilation, lighting, and
sprinklers. In the author’s residence, the ground floor ceiling is made of stones while the second-floor
ceiling is made of wood. In house interiors, wood ceilings are frequently regarded as basic and
multi-functional designs. Wooden ceilings are environmentally friendly since they are composed of natural
materials. They not only enhance the natural beauty of every room's design, but they are also entirely
harmless to the inhabitants. In the case of the residence, observing the ceiling from the second floor is very
low in height as compared to the ground floor ceiling.

Figure 6. Second Floor Hallway Figure 7. Ground Floor Living Room

Warm air rises, making it more difficult to keep one of the rooms with a high ceiling warm; yet, keeping it
cool is not as difficult in the warmer months. Unfortunately, due to the increased volume in the space, a
room with a high ceiling costs more to keep cool than a room with a regular height ceiling.

The walls are all made of stone and they are smoothened surfaces as a finish built. Because of its expansive
thermal mass, stonewalling is an excellent insulator in temperate climates and provides good insulation.
During the day, the stone gently warms up and then releases its warmth at night. Although to be most
efficient, it still requires passive solar design and can be too chilly in colder climates.

Shading is an efficient technique that was applied to the residence to keep the dwelling cool in the
summertime for existing properties in hot regions. Summer afternoons are when overheating is at its worst.
Eaves are often able to maintain the light out in the west because of the sun's lower angle. External shade,
such as adjustable awnings, louver canopies, trees, or, can assist reduce discomfort in the summer while
allowing sunlight in during the wintertime.
1.4 Building Form

The residence is rectangular in shape and in the plan. In terms of space, 90-degree angles are highly
effective. Vertical stacks and vents are more aligned. The temperature and airflow are better regulated.
Electrical and water connections are also simpler to include. Because of the rectangular shape, there isn't
much-wasted space, and scaling up and down is simple with a few computations.

The rectangular shape made the inhabitants’ movement flow smoothly but is ineffective because of the
number of people occupying the entire residence. There are completely 10 people living in the residence
altogether, thus, making the movement and space smaller and tighter. The rectangular plan has one kitchen,
one living room, one bathroom, and one sleeping room for the ground floor. On the second floor, it has four
sleeping rooms having the same sizes of width and height, one bathroom facing the south, and a terrace
facing the east.

The walls are thick enough to absorb noises from different present spaces and divisions. Although, the
hallway has very little spacing and it is a bit uncomfortable for two people to walk at the same time entering
their own rooms. On the ground floor, everything was spacious and the wall division was built with the
right proportion and positions. Since the roofing is flat, it comes out to have a lot of disadvantages.

Flat roofs, particularly large flat roofs, have a proneness to be less stable. The wider or larger the roof to be
flat means the less stable it is. Additional structural stability must be incorporated into other sections of the
structure to compensate. Sloped roofs drain better than flat roofs. The steeper the slope, the faster the water
will flow down it. Flat roofs have a tendency to collect water. Water that collects on the roof has a tendency
to deteriorate the material. Additionally, extra care must be taken to ensure that pipes and flashing are
properly sealed. There are times when the rain is heavily falling, the wooden ceiling on the second floor had
rainwater leaks which made the inhabitants be very uncomfortable. It took a lot of restoration to do in order
to completely stop the leakage.

The exterior of the residence has a small amount of space to conduct activities. Since the residence is
aligned with other neighboring houses that are also flat roofs and has square and rectangular plans as well,
the sun outshines all the structures in the same manner. Trees cannot be planted, thus, smaller plants are
installed horizontally surrounding the residence. Additionally, houses are all scattered and making it less
easy for the community to have enough space for movement and air circulation.

1.5 Eco Integration and Energy Efficiency

A person's environmental footprint, or influence on resource consumption and pollution, is reduced by

using energy-efficient, sustainable, or recyclable materials. Through sustainable energy consumption, a
sustainable and green emits house produces fewer carbon emissions, keeps waste out of landfills, and
reduces the impact of new constructions on the world's scarce resources. Although there is a lot of hype
around environmentally friendly construction, there are some substantial benefits to "going green" once
users create and maintain it. Green building solutions can help reduce time and money while also protecting
personal health and lowering one environmental impact. Green buildings help individuals live a more
resource-friendly and sustainable lifestyle by improving interior air quality and minimizing global climate
change.

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Analyzing the Eco Integration of the subject residence, there is not much to observe other than the small
horizontal garden located on the west portion of the house and one small horizontal garden parallel to the
house. When it comes to waste management, the family living in the residence has not practiced zero waste
control. The use of plastics is more often than eco-bags when buying necessities. Ecological choices such as
Energy Saver appliances, thermal-heat-retaining gypsum panels, metal roofing, and a tankless water heater,
on the other hand, cost more than their traditional equivalents in the case of the subject house. The savings
come later in these instances. Alternative energy sources such as solar panels, photovoltaic cells, and
geothermal heating, which reduce utility expenses, have not been incorporated into the structure's design.
The residence relies on air-conditioning than natural air which produces a less healthy state for the
inhabitants. To sum up, there is only a little practice of Green Architecture applied in the construction and
maintenance of the subject residence.

2 CONCLUSION

One of the most important variables that contribute to housing quality appears to be the design process. This
study has identified and discussed sub-variables such as constructability, variation, passive design, and
knowledge transmission. Many of the elements that impact building performance are difficult or impossible
to control for, therefore one may argue that an "optimal design" does not exist. Consider changes in building
utilization, human behavior, and environmental weather patterns, for example. From the building
orientation, it was tackled that the building, depending on the climate or weather conditions, receives more
sunlight from the east and landing to the west, while the northern portion receives less sunlight. The
comfortability of the entire residence was determined and showed a lot of indicators that contribute to
reducing the comfort level of the inhabitants of the subject residence. The practice of green architecture was
less applied in the building construction as well as the housing management of the occupants. It is therefore
concluded that while design costs, choices, and designs vary, most energy-efficient houses have certain
similar features: a well-built and tightly sealed thermal envelope; regulated ventilation; appropriately sized,
high-efficiency heating and cooling systems; and energy-efficient doorways, window frames, and
equipment.
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