Assignment 4 - Final Term (Research Paper)
Assignment 4 - Final Term (Research Paper)
Literature Review: Through time, Pakistan has created a cultural identity of its own that greatly
affects the architecture in the region. After Independence, the architecture of Pakistan became
a blend of historic Islamic and various modern styles. This reflects itself particularly in modern
structures, shaping up the regional aspect of this nation. Climate is another important factor in
Pakistan because it has impacts on water, health, energy, agriculture, biodiversity, socio-
economic factors, and the building sector. Like many other developing countries, Pakistan is also
facing a big challenge of energy and environmental crisis. The international practices of
developing an effectively applicable building standard is the need of today and of the future
generation in order to meet the challenges of sustainability. Now, considering the climatic factor,
Pakistan has diverse climatic zones. There are four major provinces in Pakistan: Punjab, Sindh,
KPK, and Baluchistan. The aim of this paper is to discuss in detail, the bioclimatic architecture
from its genesis along with analysis of provincial examples. Thermal comfort can be achieved by
analyzing the dynamic behavior of the climate and considering all the architectural possibilities,
as defined by the Climate Consultant for all five climate zones of Pakistan. Different way for
adapting dwellings to the climate are compared and analyzed. Globally, buildings are responsible
for 32% of global energy use and 19% greenhouses gases emissions, contributing to the global
temperature rise (Omer 2008). The unsustainable choices of using earth resources, has resulted
in increased carbon emissions, and other socio-economic issues. International policy makers on
climate change are referring to the pre-industrial CO2 for habitat as baseline model (Holdgate
1987). In Pakistan, alone, the building sector consumes about 35% of the national electricity with
domestic housing taking 85% of this slice (Enercon 1994). The Residential sector of Pakistan
consumes about 33,704 GWh of electricity (ADB 2009). In the last two decades, the household
electricity consumption has grown robustly with an increase of 10.4% (HDIP 2013). This is where
the role of regional architecture comes in play. Brick alone, which is a widely used local material,
all over Punjab, helps in reducing carbon emission. According to one U.N. report, full
implementation of 16 identified measures to mitigate SLCPs would reduce future global warming
by about 0.5˚C (Sarraf 2013). Regional case studies will be discussed in this paper, keeping their
contextual climatic importance in mind. Software’s like Ecotec, FormIT pro, and Ladybug
Grasshopper, will be explored, to draw conclusions. Understanding the history of regional
architecture, recognition of regional, local and traditional factors and the role of climate, in
shaping of regional architecture is discussed.
Methodology:
BIOCLIMATIC BUILDINGS
CONCLUSIONS
Brief history of Regional architecture of Pakistan: The regional architecture of Pakistan is
intertwined with the architecture of the broader Indian subcontinent. With the beginning of
the Indus civilization around the middle of the 3rd millennium BC, for the first time in the area
which encompasses today's Pakistan an advanced urban culture developed with large structural
facilities, some of which survive to this day. This was followed by the Gandhara style of Buddhist
architecture that borrowed elements from Ancient Greece. These remnants are visible in the
Gandhara capital of Taxila. Indo-Islamic architecture emerged during the medieval period, which
combined Indian and Islamic elements. The Mughal Empire ruled between the 16th and 18th
centuries, and saw the rise of Mughal architecture, most prevalent in Lahore. During the British
Colonial period, European styles such as the Baroque, Neoclassical, and Gothic became prevalent.
The British, like the Mughals, built elaborate buildings to project their power. The Indo-
Saracenic style, a fusion of British and Indo-Islamic elements also developed. After
Independence, modern architectural styles like the International style became popular.
After Independence, the architecture of Pakistan is a blend of historic Islamic and various modern
styles. This reflects itself, particularly in modern structures. In addition, buildings of monumental
importance such as the Minar-e-Pakistan in Lahore or the mausoleum established with white
marble known as Mazar-e-Quaid for the founder of the state expressed the self-confidence of
the nascent state. The city of Islamabad was designed by Greek architect Constantinos Apostolou
Doxiadis and completed in 1966. The Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, one of the largest mosques in
the world, is one of the best examples of modern Islamic architecture. It was designed by Vedat
Dalokay and constructed between 1976 and 1986. Skyscrapers built in the international style are
becoming more prevalent in the cities.
Geography and climates of Pakistan: Weather and climate Pakistan has three seasons: winter
(November to March) is warm and cooled by sea breezes on the coast; summer (April to July) has
extreme temperatures and the monsoon season (July to September) has the highest rainfall on the
hills. Following are the main factors that influence the weather over Pakistan.
FACTORS EFFECT
Western Mostly occur during the winter months and cause light to moderate
Disturbances showers in southern parts of the country while moderate to heavy
showers with heavy snowfall in the northern parts of the country.
Fog Occurs during the winter season and remains for weeks in upper Sindh,
central Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab.
Southwest Occurs in summer from the month of June until September in almost
Monsoon whole Pakistan. Monsoon rains bring much awaited relief from the
scorching summer heat. These monsoon rains are quite heavy by nature
and can cause significant flooding, even severe flooding if they interact
with westerly waves in the upper parts of the country.
Tropical Storms Usually form during the summer months from late April until June and
then from late September until November. They affect the coastal
localities of the country.
Dust storms Occur during summer months with peak in May and June, They are locally
known as Andhi. These dust storms are quite violent. Dust storms during
the early summer indicate the arrival of the monsoons while dust storms
in the autumn indicate the arrival of winter.
Heat waves Occur during May and June, especially in southern Punjab,
central Balochistan and Sindh.
Thunderstorms Most commonly occur in northern Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad
Kashmir.
Continental air Prevails during the period when there is no precipitation in the country.
Climate of Punjab: Monsoons and western disturbances are the two main factors that affect the
weather in Lahore; otherwise, continental air prevails for rest of the seasons. Following are the
main factors that influence the weather of Lahore.
Western disturbances generally occur during the winter months and cause moderate
rainfall; rarely, hailstorms also occur.
Fog is dense during the winter season and remains for days to weeks.
Dust storms occur during summer months, peaking in May and June.
Heat waves are intense in May and June.
Southwest monsoons also occur in the summer, from June until September. These heavy
monsoon rains bring relief from scorching heat.
Continental air prevails during the period when there is no precipitation in the city.
Climate of Sindh: Sindh has an arid climate, albeit a moderate version of this climate. Karachi is
located on the coast and as a result has a relatively mild climate. Sindh has two main seasons;
Summer & Winter, while spring and autumn are very short. Summer season persists for longest
period during the year. Sindh also receives the monsoon rains from July to September. The city
enjoys a tropical climate encompassing warm winters and hot summers. The humidity levels
usually remain high from March to November, while very low in winter as the wind direction in
winter is North Easterly.
Climate of KPK: KPK is not situated in the monsoon region, unlike the other northern parts
of Pakistan. However, occasionally monsoon currents make it as far as Peshawar causing
downpours. This can be witnessed in the erratic monsoon of 2015 when the monsoon moisture
was going well into eastern Afghanistan. The winter rainfall due to western disturbances shows
a higher record during the months of February and April. The highest winter rainfall has been
recorded in March, while the highest summer rainfall in the month of August. The average winter
rainfall is higher than that of the summer. Based on a 30-year record, the average 30-year annual
precipitation has been recorded as 400 millimeters (16 in). The relative humidity varies from 46%
in June to 76% in August.
Climate of Balochistan: Balochistan, Pakistan features a continental arid climate with a large
variation between summer and winter temperatures. The highest temperature recorded in
Quetta was 42 °C (108 °F) on 10 July 1998. The lowest temperature in Quetta is −18.3 °C (−0.9 °F)
which was recorded on 8 January 1970.
Bioclimatic building and its implication on regional architecture: Bioclimatic architecture refers to
the design of buildings and spaces (interior – exterior – outdoor) based on local climate, aimed
at providing thermal and visual comfort, making use of solar energy and other environmental
sources.
The first rule of bioclimatic architecture is to take advantage of local bioclimatic conditions with
the benefit of the natural and built environment. That approach should always be based on
multidisciplinary in-depth research of individual circumstances: from the specifics of the
ecosystem through cultural factors up to the economic analysis. In final effect safe and
comfortable building which is created does not harm the environment but contributes to its
health and enriched biodiversity.
Discussion: Vernacular versus Bioclimatic Architecture: There is a lot of similarities between
vernacular and bioclimatic architecture. First of all both of the ideas are characterized by the
proper adaptation of the building to the climate specifics. Second issue is the concept of living in
a balance with the natural environment which is very obvious in vernacular structures and
consciously created in bioclimatic edifices. Bioclimatic approach involves in-depth understanding
of complexity and sensitiveness of the ecosystem. Also the respect for the cultural heritage of
the place, where the building is erected can be noticed in both architectural phenomena.
However, vernacular and bioclimatic building differ a lot regarding the applied technology level.
Traditional dwellings are usually based on knowledge developed in particular region of the world
and transferred from one generation to another as a part of the heritage. Contemporary
bioclimatic architecture combines indigenous methods with the most advanced technology.
Nevertheless, the critical point in this approach is the smart combination of passive and active
methods, based on multidisciplinary research (including e.g. energy efficiency, environmental
impact, cost analysis etc.) and not just the affirmation of the technology itself. Finally “the main
difference between vernacular and bioclimatic building lies in the ability to select the
technological solution most appropriate to the climate”.
Ladybug Analysis of Climate of Punjab: Ladybug performs detailed analysis of climate data to
produce customized, interactive visualizations for environmentally-informed design. Ladybug
imports standard EnergyPlus Weather files (EPW) into Grasshopper and Dynamo. It provides a
variety of 2D and 3D interactive climate graphics that support the decision-making process during
the early stages of design.
Figure: Direct, diffuse and total radiation analysis of Punjab on ladybug Source: Author
Figure: Direct, diffuse and total radiation analysis of Sindh on ladybug Source: Author
Monthly Analysis of Sindh: In this analysis, the sun path, wind rose and direct, indirect and
total radiations of Sindh through ladybug plugin are analyzed monthly in detail.
January:
Figure: sun path, wind rose and radiation analysis of Sindh in January Source: Author
February:
Figure: sun path, wind rose and radiation analysis of Sindh in February Source: Author
March:
Figure: sun path, wind rose and radiation analysis of Sindh in March Source: Author
April:
Figure: sun path, wind rose and radiation analysis of Sindh in April Source: Author
May:
Figure: sun path, wind rose and radiation analysis of Sindh in May Source: Author
June:
Figure: sun path, wind rose and radiation analysis of Sindh in June Source: Author
July:
Figure: sun path, wind rose and radiation analysis of Sindh in July Source: Author
August:
Figure: sun path, wind rose and radiation analysis of Sindh in August Source: Author
September:
Figure: sun path, wind rose and radiation analysis of Sindh in September Source: Author
October:
Figure: sun path, wind rose and radiation analysis of Sindh in October Source: Author
November:
Figure: sun path, wind rose and radiation analysis of Sindh in November Source: Author
December:
Figure: sun path, wind rose and radiation analysis of Sindh in December Source: Author
Case studies: Two case studies were chosen from different provinces, to analyze he bioclimatic
effect on regional architecture.
Case study 1 of bioclimatic building in Punjab: 345 Telenor Campus, Islamabad: Located in
Islamabad, Pakistan, the site, for the Telenor office campus is made up of 15 acres of an
undulating landscape which epitomize the Potohar plateau. The design ensures that the site’s
existing topography and natural water courses remain intact: for this, inspiration was sought
from the historic stepwells of Pakistan’s Punjab province and western India, used as an
architectural device for storing rainwater (Baolis).
Building Program: The building program is reviewed keeping in mind the working drawings of
345 Telenor Campus.
Figure: Plans and elevations of 345 Telenor Campus, Islamabad Source: Archdaily
Traditionally courts have always played an integral part in local architecture of Pakistan, be it
residential, institutional or religious building types. These central spaces become the main
socializing hubs for people. In the Telenor office this concept is used as a focal point,
interconnecting blocks around large water bodies in the internal courts encourage social
interaction between the users.
Water courts and social spaces around them: These water courts and social spaces develops the
sense of place and connection for observer, in our traditional vernacular courtyards are given
much importance due to the reason that these are the outdoor spaces within the indoors and
provide the interaction with nature while giving privacy too. “The most desirable characteristic
of an authentic architecture of regionalism is rooted in expressing values, heritages, and the
culture of that region, allowing one to present his own interpretation while communicating with
the principles of belief, behavior, and aesthetic that define the lifestyle” (Nima Zahiri *
2016).Therefore, here we can see the use of traditional jaalis, which provide curtain for privacy
and giving view as well and ventilation, too. Local stone is used in ‘Jaali’ screens which filter the
harsh summer sun.
Figure: Annual average heat gain of 345 Telenor Campus, Islamabad Source: Author
The unit KWh/sq.m is the unit of heat gain and the scale shows that warmer colors are showing
more heat gain then cool colors. It is evident from the above analysis that most of the heat occurs
through the east and south elevation, while conceptually the block orientation is kept in the
North-South direction to minimize heat gain. Big openings with glass are given towards north
side of the building while the openings towards South side are given with proper shading devices
required to block summer sun and diagram shows that the areas under shading devices are
blocking heat gain and are shown with blue violet colors. Recessed slit windows on West side
would also reduce the heat gain which occurs through west side.
Month June (Average Heat Gain):
We can see from the above diagrams that the heat gain from the south side is blocked due to the
use of proper shading devices. On west side recessed windows would block the summer sun.
Month March:
Month September:
Month January:
From the above diagrams we can clearly observe that the heat gain reduces in winter (January).
Case study 2 of bioclimatic building in Sindh: IBA Student Center, Karachi:
The Student Centre was conceived as complete facility for recreational respite and “to create a
space which encourages social interaction.” In addition to the student lounges, computer lab,
societies’ offices, indoor play areas, gym, badminton courts, a dining hall and coffee shop and
various open spaces for students to gather, the most notable feature that determined the form
of the structure is the amphitheater. The challenge was to locate the amphitheater in the limited
area available of campus. It was resolved by placing it on the roof (Figure). Two tapered triangular
masses intersect at a point that accommodates the geometry of the amphitheater section
(Figure).
The interior that is meant to be “youthful”, is a combination of natural materials and exquisite
detailing, ceiling ducts exposed. The majestic use of color is through vinyl graphics designed by
the architects themselves. Each space is illuminated with natural light and views into intimate
landscaped areas, more like personal spaces within a communal setting.
The beauty in its access lies in the exterior facade with the tapered edges that conceal the stairs
and a landscaped ramp leading to the roof. The ramp, covered with the grass, is contiguous with
the surrounding landscape; thus, at first glance, it appears as if the building emerges from the
ground. There are pockets of green space introduced on the roof as well and collectively, the
ramp and these areas provide natural thermal insulation. The facade itself follows the
architectural language of all the new IBA campus buildings, also designed by the same architects.
Fair-faced plaster bands, silbatta stone and recessed glazing are its standout finishes (Figure).
The sun and wind analysis is done using a plugin in Rhinoceros software which is Ladybug. It is a
plugin that is primarily used and built for the climatic analysis of the site such as, wind analysis,
solar analysis both direct radiations and diffused radiation. It helps to analyze a building by
providing complete information about a city’s climatic conditions throughout the year. Similarly
the wind analysis is done through this plugin. It gives the detailed information about wind
direction and frequency of the site for a month or a whole year. By looking at the radiation charts
created by the ladybug plugin it is seen that mostly the radiations are coming from the South, SW
and SE direction. But the front façade is placed as that direction, so in order to reduce the
radiations a design element is added to create a recessed glass façade with comparatively smaller
amount of radiation coming inside. Similarly the wind rose submitted by ladybug shows that
mostly the winds are impacting on the structure from North, NE and West. The winds are then
used in the open amphitheater so that natural air would flow through the raised platform in order
to have a natural environment.
Total Radiation (kWh/m2) Diffuse Radiation (kWh/m2) Direct Radiation(kWh/m2) Sun-Path Diagram
1 JAN 1:00- 25 DEC 24:00 1 JAN 1:00- 25 DEC 24:00 1 JAN 1:00- 25 DEC 24:00 1 JAN 1:00- 25 DEC 24:00
Wind-Rose (m/s) Wind-Rose (m/s) Circuit for analysis
1 DEC 1:00- 30 DEC 24:00 1 JULY 1:00- 30 JULY 24:00 (Ladybug)
FormIT Analysis:
FormIT is a modelling and analyzing software which supports iteration with Revit to connect
design concepts to BIM. It is also used for energy evaluation as well as solar analysis. It is a
location using software that gives an accurate result by analyzing the solar conditions of that area
and then applying it to the model generated in the software. It also connects with the Insight 360
to generate energy consumption charts. The method for the solar analysis is simple as compared
to other softwares. First step is to create the model using tools inside the software. The software
also helps to create levels in between the simple cube structure unlike many other softwares.
The second step is to set the location by going into the ribbon or tool bar and press the location
symbol in order to set the coordinates of the area. The second step is to generate the solar
analysis by clicking on the option right next to location bar. Then, set the date and time for the
solar analysis. The analysis driven by FormIT of the month June gives us the result that the
recessed areas of the structure is getting very low amount of the radiations while the roof top is
getting the maximum radiations. Whereas, the elevations of the building has average amount of
radiations acting upon them. Also the least amount of radiation is acting on the front facade of
the student center. Whereas in the month of December the whole structure is getting an average
amount of radiation. But the elevation in the NW is receiving minimal radiations.
Figure: Analysis on FormIT (June) Isometric views of the building Source: Author
Figure: Analysis on FormIT (December) Isometric views of the building Source: Author
To do the analysis you go to the analyze tab and click on solar and a dialogue box will appear.
Revit will only allow the results to be generated if you are in 3D orthographic view. The results of
the analysis is determined by the sun settings. The results are drawn for single day, month or
whole year. Also the settings should be turned on for sunrise to sun set. We have also drawn the
results for IBA student center. The derived results for all type of insolation shows that the roof
top has most radiations whereas the recessed windows experience the least amount of
radiations. The result gives us the understanding that the designed elements serves the purpose
for which they were built. The results drawn are as follows:
Design Process: An observatory tower, of 72ft height, with six platforms is the main aim of the
design process. The first 3 platforms will be used as leisure spaces, with the next 3 will be used
as observatory platforms. The whole structure is built in timber, with tiles for flooring, a central
elevator, and glass for viewing. Each platform is 12ft high.
Rendered Views:
Discussion of Rendered views: The exterior is made of timber, with glass inserted at regular
intervals. Picture 1 (top left) represents the isometric view of the structure. Picture 2: (top line
middle pic) and Picture 3 (top line
right) shows zoomed in views.
Picture 4 (middle line) shows the
image of a person viewing from the
observatory window. Picture 5 (
Middle line) shows the view of top
platform. Picture 6 (last line) shows
the 12 ft height of the building and
a view of elevator.
Plan view: The plan view
represents the top most platform
view.
Elevation views:
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