Ancient Architectural Techniques in the GCC and the Importance of Natural Cooling. Learning from the Past

Dubai - June 11, 2024

Hon. Prof. David Provenzani

Introduction

The scorching heat of the UAE and the Gulf region has always posed a significant challenge for its inhabitants. Before the advent of modern air conditioning, the ingenious architects of the past developed various techniques to cool buildings naturally. These methods not only reflect a deep understanding of the local climate but also showcase the region's rich cultural heritage. This article delves into these ancient cooling techniques, exploring their origins, functionalities, and where they can still be witnessed today, and ties in the importance of revisiting these techniques in the context of modern energy challenges.

Historical Context and Need for Cooling Techniques

The Gulf region, characterized by its arid desert climate, experiences extreme temperatures, particularly during the summer months when temperatures can soar above 45°C (113°F). Traditional architecture needed to address this intense heat while ensuring the habitability of structures. The techniques developed were based on the principles of passive cooling, utilizing natural ventilation, thermal mass, and strategic architectural designs to maintain lower temperatures inside buildings.

Key Architectural Techniques

1. Wind Towers (Barjeel)

Wind towers, or Barjeel, are one of the most iconic cooling methods used in traditional Gulf architecture. These towers capture and direct cooler breezes into the building while expelling warmer air, functioning as natural air conditioners.

- Design and Functionality: The towers are designed with open sides that face the prevailing winds. As wind enters the tower, it is funneled down into the building, where it cools the interior. The warm air inside rises and escapes through the top of the tower, creating a continuous flow of air.

- Historical Usage: Wind towers were commonly used in residential buildings and mosques. They were particularly prevalent in the coastal regions of the UAE, where sea breezes could be effectively harnessed.

- Where to See: The Bastakiya district in Dubai and Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood are excellent places to observe these structures. The Al Bastakiya area, in particular, has preserved many buildings with traditional wind towers.

2. Thick Walls and High Ceilings

The use of thick walls made from locally available materials such as mud brick, stone, and gypsum was another common technique. These materials have high thermal mass, which helps in absorbing heat during the day and releasing it slowly during the night.

- Design and Functionality: Thick walls provide insulation, keeping interiors cool during the day and warm at night. High ceilings also aid in cooling by allowing hot air to rise above the living space.

- Historical Usage: These techniques were used in both residential and public buildings, providing effective thermal regulation without the need for additional energy sources.

- Where to See: Examples of buildings with thick walls and high ceilings can be found in the heritage areas of Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah. The Al Hisn Fort in Sharjah is a prime example.

3. Courtyards (Hosh)

Central courtyards were a fundamental element of traditional Gulf architecture. These open spaces provided a shaded, cooler area within the home, promoting air circulation and reducing indoor temperatures.

- Design and Functionality: Courtyards often featured water elements, such as fountains or pools, which added to the cooling effect through evaporation. The presence of plants also contributed to a cooler microclimate.

- Historical Usage: Courtyards were a staple in residential architecture, offering a private outdoor space that was protected from the harsh sun.

- Where to See: The Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House in Dubai is an excellent place to see traditional courtyard architecture. The house, now a museum, showcases several courtyards designed to maximize comfort in the desert climate.

4. Mashrabiya and Shading Devices

Mashrabiya, or wooden lattice screens, were used extensively in traditional Gulf architecture to provide shade while allowing air to flow freely through buildings.

- Design and Functionality: These screens were often intricately carved and positioned on windows and balconies. They allowed for privacy and ventilation, reducing the need for artificial cooling.

- Historical Usage: Mashrabiya were common in both residential and commercial buildings, contributing to the aesthetic and functional qualities of traditional architecture.

- Where to See: The House of Sheikh Ibrahim in Bahrain is a notable example where Mashrabiya screens are still visible. The house has been preserved as part of Bahrain's cultural heritage and is open to visitors.

5. Roof Gardens and Terraces

Roof gardens and terraces were used to mitigate heat and create additional living spaces that benefited from the cooler night air.

- Design and Functionality: The greenery on the rooftops helped in cooling the building by providing shade and promoting evapotranspiration. Roof terraces were often used for sleeping during the hot summer nights.

- Historical Usage: This technique was particularly useful in urban areas where space was limited, and maximizing the usability of all parts of the building was essential.

- Where to See: The use of roof gardens can be seen in some of the restored buildings in the Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the UAE.

Preserving and Experiencing Traditional Cooling Techniques

Many of these traditional buildings and their ingenious cooling methods have been preserved and restored, offering a glimpse into the architectural wisdom of the past. Heritage sites across the Gulf region provide opportunities for visitors to experience these techniques firsthand:

- Dubai, UAE: Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood (Bastakiya) and Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House.

- Sharjah, UAE: Al Hisn Fort and Sharjah Heritage Museum.

- Al Ain, UAE: Al Ain Oasis and Al Jahili Fort.

- Bahrain: House of Sheikh Ibrahim and Bahrain National Museum.

- Qatar: Souq Waqif and the Al Koot Fort in Doha.

These sites not only preserve the architectural heritage but also serve as educational resources, showcasing the sustainable practices of ancient builders. The ingenuity of these cooling techniques offers valuable lessons in passive cooling and sustainable architecture, which are increasingly relevant in today's efforts to combat climate change and reduce energy consumption.

Modern Technology vs. Ancient Wisdom: The Importance of Revisiting Traditional Cooling Techniques

In the modern era, the widespread availability of air conditioning (AC) and abundant energy resources have dramatically transformed building design in the UAE and the Gulf region. Contemporary architecture often relies heavily on mechanical cooling systems to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, sidelining the natural, passive cooling techniques perfected by our ancestors. This shift has led to several consequences, including increased energy consumption, higher greenhouse gas emissions, and greater environmental impact.

Air conditioning has become ubiquitous in the Gulf region due to its ability to provide immediate and reliable cooling. This technology has enabled the construction of glass-clad skyscrapers and expansive shopping malls, which are emblematic of modern development. However, the reliance on AC systems comes with significant drawbacks:

1. High Energy Consumption: Air conditioning accounts for a substantial portion of the energy demand in the Gulf region. In hot climates, cooling can constitute up to 70% of a building’s total energy usage.

2. Environmental Impact: The energy required to power AC systems is primarily generated from fossil fuels, contributing to carbon emissions and climate change. Additionally, refrigerants used in AC units can be potent greenhouse gases.

3. Neglect of Passive Cooling Techniques: The convenience of AC has led to the neglect of traditional, passive cooling methods that were once integral to building design in the region.

The Importance of Revisiting Traditional Techniques

To address the pressing issues of energy consumption and climate change, it is crucial to revisit and integrate ancient cooling techniques into modern architecture. These methods offer several advantages that align with contemporary goals of sustainability and resource conservation:

1. Energy Efficiency: Passive cooling techniques, such as wind towers, thick walls, and courtyards, significantly reduce the need for mechanical cooling, thereby lowering energy consumption.

2. Sustainability: Utilizing locally available materials and designing buildings that work with the environment rather than against it can minimize the carbon footprint of construction and operation.

3. Resilience: Buildings that incorporate passive cooling methods are more resilient to power outages and fluctuations in energy supply.

Integrating Traditional Techniques in Modern Design

To move towards more sustainable building practices in the GCC, architects and planners should consider the following strategies:

1. Hybrid Systems: Combine modern AC systems with passive cooling techniques to reduce overall energy demand. For example, buildings can use wind towers to pre-cool air before it enters the AC system.

2. Bioclimatic Design: Design buildings that take into account local climate conditions, using natural ventilation, shading devices, and thermal mass to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

3. Regulatory Support: Governments must incentivize and oblige the use of sustainable building practices through policies, regulations, and incentives that promote energy-efficient design and construction.

4. Education and Awareness: Raising awareness among architects, engineers starting from their academic careers, and the general public about the benefits of traditional cooling techniques can drive demand for more sustainable building designs.

Conclusion

The ancient architectural techniques used in the UAE and Gulf region to keep buildings cool reflect a deep understanding of the local environment and a commitment to sustainable living. By learning from the past and integrating these methods with modern technology, we can create buildings that contribute to Net Zero policies and better address the challenges of climate change.

It is imperative to rethink our approach to building design, prioritizing natural methods to reduce energy consumption and preserve resources for future generations. The wisdom of our ancestors, combined with contemporary innovation, can pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient built environment, reducing the overall carbon footprint and the energy bills.