Efficient and optimum design of native architecture – A means for sustainability. Case study of Residential units in Kottar, Kanyakumari

Abstract

The present architectural tendencies for the design of residential units are primarily focused on aesthetics and structural stability. It needs more thought to the occupants' experience of the space. Native architecture develops from knowledge collected over many generations. It includes key architectural factors like orientation, shape, material, and structural layout. The interplay of these design criteria with the demands of the inhabitants responds to the structural, sociocultural, and climatic factors, resulting in an effective and ideal sustainable design. In December 2021, an empirical investigation was conducted in 10 indigenous residential units in Kottar, Nagercoil, which is a city in the Kanyakumari district.The measured factors were based on how people perceive the space, which included air temperature, air velocity, building materials, construction technique, and space utilisation. A quantitative and qualitative study of the measured variable, highlights the sophisticated design and planning involved in indigenous architecture. The impact of spatial planning, envelope design, building features, opening design, materials, shape, and orientation on air temperature and movement was investigated. The findings emphasise the necessity of thermal zone management, delayed heat transmission owing to high thermal mass, controlling heat transfer from the roof through the intermediate ceiling and arranging openings along the courtyard axis. The analysis determined the factors in the design that affect how the inhabitants perceive the space. These identified factors and their impact contain the potential to improve the process of architectural design and planning.