The cities and structures built by Islamic civilization throughout history in hot climates were filled with smart designs that provided cooling without the need for energy. These traditional architectural solutions can shed light on today's climate change and sustainability challenges.
Narrow streets and arched passageways
In Islamic cities, streets were deliberately designed narrow and winding to break the sun's rays and reduce wind speed. This design provided continuous shade for pedestrians. Arched passageways called 'sabat' connected buildings, expanding the shaded area and accelerating airflow.
Thick walls that balance heat
Thick stone walls, especially used in desert climates, absorbed excessive heat during the day and slowly released it back into the interior at night, establishing a natural balance. Wall structures built in three layers strengthened insulation by placing filling material between the outer and inner walls. In this way, the indoor temperature could remain 10 to 15 degrees lower than outside.
Designs that direct the wind
House entrances were built at a 90-degree broken angle to preserve privacy; this also prevented wind and dust from entering. Wooden lattice screens (mashrabiya) on windows both blocked the view and provided cooling by accelerating airflow through their narrow gaps. The pressure difference created by opening upper and lower windows differently created constant air circulation in the room.
The 'malqaf' (wind catcher) at roof level captured the prevailing wind and directed it downward, creating a natural air conditioning effect. Wind towers called 'badgir' in the Gulf region worked on the same principle. Protruding window systems called 'shahshiha' on ceilings drew in and mixed the air, lowering the temperature.
The cooling effect of courtyards
Courtyards at the center of Middle Eastern and North African homes were breathing spaces that provided light and air to all rooms. Shaded all day by their high walls, courtyards spread coolness through evaporation with a pool or fountain in the middle. Trees and plants also softened the environment with shade and moisture. The arched 'maq'ad' balconies on the upper floor, open to the northwest wind, were the coolest corners.
Glass techniques in light control
In times without electricity, maximum use was made of sunlight for indoor lighting, but plaster windows were covered with colored glass to prevent overheating. In Yemen, stained glass embedded in white marble concentrated moonlight to provide nighttime illumination; this element was called 'qamariya'.
All these systems offer an ecological balance that works entirely on renewable energy and local materials, without the need for fossil fuels. They provide a valuable reference for today's architects in sustainable and climate-responsive building design.
