Retrofitting vernacular screens in contemporary facades in hot and dry regions: A climate control study using energy and CFD simulations

This research examines the perforated geometric screens (jaali, also called mashrabiya) extensively used in Islamic and Indo-Islamic architecture. Historically, these elements have been used not only for aesthetic purposes but also as passive design strategies to regulate indoor temperature through natural ventilation and shading. This study hypothesizes that the principles of traditional jaali can be reinterpreted and integrated into contemporary facade design to improve thermal comfort, particularly in hot and dry climates. To test this hypothesis, the research used a conceptual case study of the Kilis Resource and Community Center (KRCC) in Türkiye. The study assessed internal airflow patterns and thermal conditions using energy modeling and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations via the IESVE software. The analysis was done during the cooling period, with two representative summer days: May 3rd and July 15th. Results showed that all investigated ventilation scenarios with jaali-integrated facades had lower indoor temperatures throughout the day. However, the presence of open windows was crucial to maintain indoor temperatures below outdoor levels, allowing air movement. The findings suggest that using jaalis in hot climates should be encouraged, as it lowered temperatures by up to 2℃ during the cooling season with the help of natural ventilation.

Keywords: Thermal comfort, hot and dry climate, natural ventilation, jaali, passive cooling.