Architecture & Environment

The module introduced the components of environmental conditions and issues. It focused on human intervention affecting the environment both positively and negatively and the relationship of buildings with the natural system. We were introduced to basic environmental awareness through lectures and tutorials. Additionally the module introduced us to the basic elements of climate and their influences on architecture, which aims to facilitate students to create acceptable environmentally conscious and comfortable building designs.

Case Study: Shading & Lighting

Duration: 6 weeks

Objectives:

To identify passive design strategies for Shading & Lighting.
To analyze the effect of thermal comfort/comfort factors in a person and in a space relating to Shading & Lighting.
To be able to criticize design of the space in terms of thermal comfort by referring to MS1525, UBBL and GBI.
To be able to suggest passive solutions for Shading & Lighting.

We were formed in a group of four to analyze two different spaces, one for Shading and another one for Lighting. We were to install and use a few apps in our smartphones for measuring, paying attention to passive design strategies and the environmental factors, and thus analyzing the monitored measurement, environmental factor, people and space in diagrams, sections and plans. Lastly, we were to explain how the environment was affected from natural and man-made factors and identify issues if there is and propose a passive solution.

Shading

For Shading, we recorded the site conditions and took readings of internal and external temperatures and photos in the chosen case study façade at different times of the day. Next, we analyzed the shading of the space with solar chart and compared the temperature requirement stated in MS1525 and GBI. Then, we did space, solar, ventilation analysis and bioclimatic chart to find out what were the issues causing the space not within the comfort zone. Lastly, we provided a few solutions for the existing design.

Lighting

For Lighting, we recorded the site conditions and took readings of daylight level by measuring with app, lighting level and photos in the chosen case study at different times of the day. Next, we did a light contour diagram and compared the lighting level requirement based on the purpose of usage of the space stated in MS1525 and GBI. Then, we did space, daylight factor and artificial lighting analysis and identified the locations where the lighting level has not met the requirement. Lastly, we provided a few solutions to improve the lighting level of the locations.

Reflection

I was quite lost at the very beginning of this module as I was completely new to the architecture course, unlike most of the students that have gone through their semester one which they have already learnt some architectural design and history courses. However, I was very grateful to have wonderful groupmates and lecturers that helped me a lot throughout the journey, whenever I face any problems, they were there to help. It turns out surprisingly that we did quite well although we were all new to the architecture course, we cooperated well in completing our tutorial questions and assignment as well. I have learnt a lot regarding how architecture and the environment relate to each other and how should we design considering Shading and Lighting of the spaces. Moreover, I have learnt passive design strategies in designing our buildings as it is best to make full use of passive design to receive adequate natural daylighting and ventilation to reduce the usage of electronic appliances such as artificial lighting, fan and air conditioning as we could save energy and protect the environment but also remain in the comfort zone. Furthermore, I have learnt the importance of sustainable design as we could use renewable energies in designing buildings to save costs and energy and protect the environment as well. Lastly, I would like to thank my lecturers, Dr. Suja and especially Dr. Salvi for being my tutor and guiding me in the assignment.