Abstract

Bioclimatic design is an effective architectural approach for creating environmentally responsive buildings, improving comfort and quality of life for its users while using fewer resources. However, globalization of construction strategies and standardized systems are often applied to various locations without considering the specificity of each climate and site. Thus, working contrary to bioclimatic premises and reducing the overall building performance. This work analyzes the case of the One-Day Church (ODC) global project from Maranatha Volunteers International (MVI), which consists of building churches around the world using a standard roof and frame kit, and local materials. It proposes design improvements for three macro-climates, namely hot-humid, hot-arid, and temperate.

This study reviews the concepts of environmental design for each climate and takes into consideration the organization values and church architecture for this religious group. The baseline model and proposed changes are simulated, and the results show that the strategies were responsible for improving daylighting levels, natural ventilation, envelope performance, and overall hours of comfort. In conclusion, applying a set of variations on the design based on macro-climate requirements can significantly improve the environmental performance of one-size-fits-all designs, creating a better space for those building users. These bioclimatic strategies may be applied to other standardized construction projects, such as emergency shelters, and in general to demonstrate the benefits of a bioclimatic approach.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Bioclimatology; Sustainable architecture; Church architecture

Publication Date

8-2016

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Architecture (M.Arch.)

Department, Program, or Center

Architecture (GIS)

Advisor

Gabrielle Gaustad

Advisor/Committee Member

Dennis A. Andrejko

Advisor/Committee Member

Giovanna Potesta

Comments

Physical copy available from RIT's Wallace Library at QH543 .E55 2016

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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