An Exploration of Climate-Responsive Design Strategies Employed by El-Miniawy Brothers in Southern Algeria

Abstract

In an age marked by globalisation, contemporary design, and diminishing regional distinctiveness, particularly concerning its impact on climate, the integration of passive strategies and climate-responsive design emerges as a critical element in forward-thinking architecture that embraces the unique climatic conditions of various locales. Consequently, this paper offers an in-depth examination of the climate-responsive design implemented by two pioneering architects who specialised primarily in housing projects in Southern Algeria. This investigation is further enriched by on-site measurements conducted on selected case studies. The findings reveal that, on typical scorching days, the actual indoor operational temperatures in 400 housing units situated in El-Oued range from 20.1 °C to 38.9 °C, whereas in 600 housing units in Ouled Djellal, temperatures fluctuate between 31.2 °C and 35.4 °C. It is noteworthy that outdoor air temperatures can soar to as high as 40 °C in El-Oued and 43 °C in Ouled Djellal during peak hours. The architectural achievements of the El-Miniawy brothers in Algeria's southern region stand as tangible examples of architecture that adeptly adapts to the harsh, arid climate. This study underscores the importance of climate-responsive design and passive strategies and offers valuable insights into the indoor thermal environment. Ultimately, this research is poised to inspire architects and decision-makers in their future housing projects.