Afaq H. Chohan
Jihad Awad
Muhammad A. Ismail
Mohammad S. Arar

This research has investigated the sustainability and climate resilience of courtyard houses of adobe architecture in the UAE. It analyzed design effectiveness in terms of power consumption, CO۲ emissions, thermal comfort, and daylight use, employing simulations to assess building structures and construction systems. Adopting a three-phase mixed-methods approach, the study began with a literature review on courtyard house design, construction, and environmental performance, emphasizing sustainable design and passive ventilation. The second phase involved a case study of a UAE courtyard house (Al Midfa), including site visits, interviews, and energy consumption and CO۲ emission data collection. The final phase used building energy simulation software to model energy performance and evaluate passive ventilation's role in reducing energy consumption and CO۲ emissions, with simulation results validated against real-world data. Advanced Sefaira simulations with the Energy Plus Engine identified one out of seven modified models (M۵) as exceptionally thermally efficient, influencing the architectural design of the Al Midfa house. To transform the Al Midfa house into a sustainable climate-resistant structure, the research suggested retrofitting with new glazing and insulation on the inside of external walls and on the roof surface at a combined U-value of ۰.۴ W/m۲to enhance energy efficiency without altering the exterior. A notable innovation was the use of injected cellulose insulation in wall systems, combining efficient insulation with architectural aesthetics, signifying a shift towards energy-efficient interior modifications. The study's findings contribute to the evolution of traditional house designs toward climate change resilience and a sustainable future. Doi: ۱۰.۲۸۹۹۱/CEJ-۲۰۲۴-۰۱۰-۰۳-۰۱۸ Full Text: PDF

Adobe Architecture; CO۲ Emission; Energy Consumption; Thermal Condition; Traditional Construction; Courtyard House in Hot & Dry Climate.