Architecture + Climate: strategies for extreme weather

Architecture can contribute to the issues raised by extreme or severe weather events in two ways.

At the macro scale designing buildings which are energy efficient, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, remove the need for mechanical heating or cooling and use passive solar principles contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions.

At the micro scale architecture can accommodate extreme weather in several ways as illustrated here:

MarraYeh_IpohHouse2015_000008Heavy rainfall and flooding can be addressed by raising a building on stilts.
MarraYeh_ForestvilleHouse_4969Courtyards can be used to create pockets of outdoor space protected from high winds.
MarraYeh_AbbotsfordHouse_2042Wind driven rain and excessive solar heat gain can be addressed through movable screens

 

Which strategy, or combination of strategies, is appropriate for a given project will vary according to the particular climate, site, location and other project specifics. Architecture that integrates climate and weather events into a design solution can yield practical solutions that are also beautiful.