Passive Design Strategies in School Architecture

The air flow patterns and characteristics within a specific location, influenced by factors like buildings, topography, and vegetation.

A type of microclimate found in urban areas, characterized by altered air flow and temperature due to the presence of buildings and infrastructure.

A type of microclimate found within the urban canopy, influenced by the arrangement and characteristics of buildings.

The direction and speed of wind in a particular location.

The position of a building relative to the sun's path throughout the year.

A design element that uses natural wind patterns to create ventilation and air circulation.

The size and placement of openings on a building's exterior.

The way a building is designed to allow air to flow through it.

A technique that uses water evaporation to cool air.

An open space within a building, surrounded by walls, often used to improve natural ventilation.

A technique that uses the movement of air to cool a building.

Built-in channels or passages within walls or floors to facilitate air circulation.

A combination of strategies used to optimize building performance based on local climate conditions.

A school designed by Francis Kéré in Nairobi, Kenya, featuring a ring-shaped layout with a strong emphasis on natural ventilation.

The use of local materials and construction techniques that are appropriate for the climate.

The use of locally sourced building materials in a contemporary and innovative way. This approach ensures that the architecture reflects the local context and contributes to sustainable construction practices.

A public space within a school building that serves as a gathering area for students, staff, and visitors. It often provides a protected and central hub within the school.

A building design that prioritizes natural ventilation and minimizes the impact of the local climate. This typically involves strategically designed openings and spaces that allow for air circulation and shade.

The process of planning a building's structure to allow for optimal airflow. This can involve strategically placed windows, doors, and other openings to control air movement and temperature.

Strategies used to modify the effects of the local climate on a building. These strategies might include shading devices, ventilation systems, and materials that reflect heat.

A space within a building specifically designed for the purpose of shading. Often created using overhanging roofs, walls, or vegetation.

A type of school building that is designed to be organized around an open central area, often a courtyard. This provides a focal point for the school and connects various functional spaces.

A raised stage or platform that serves as an outdoor performance space or gathering area. Often found in schools, public parks, and other public spaces.

A design strategy that uses natural wind patterns to create ventilation and air circulation within a building.

An open space within a building, surrounded by walls, that promotes natural ventilation and air circulation.

A technique that uses the movement of air to cool a building, often achieved through strategically placed openings and wind catchers.

A design element that uses water to cool the surrounding environment through evaporation.

A design feature that creates a space between the roof and ceiling, allowing for better air circulation and reducing heat gain.

A climate at a local scale, affected by features like buildings and vegetation, that differs from the regional climate.

A design element that allows wind to pass through while blocking direct sunlight, providing shade and ventilation. It consists of a series of vertical or horizontal slats.

An undulating, wavy ceiling design that enhances illumination and ventilation by diffusing light and promoting air circulation. It often incorporates white paint for better light reflection.

The use of light-colored surfaces, such as white paint, to reflect sunlight and create a brighter, more evenly lit space.

The act of distributing light evenly throughout a space, preventing dark spots and glare.

The process of using natural light from the sun to illuminate interior spaces, reducing reliance on artificial light sources. It often involves incorporating windows, skylights, and strategically positioned reflective surfaces.

The design of buildings and spaces that considers the local climate conditions, such as wind patterns, sunlight, and temperature, to improve comfort and energy efficiency.

A building's position relative to the sun’s path, influencing how much sunlight enters the building and its impact on temperatures.