A Theoretical Framework for the Evaluation from the Traditional Mashrabiya to Modern Mashrabiya

Abstract

Finding a favorable trade-off between saving the architectural heritage, and assuring the development of modern architecture is a delicate and precise task, due to the lack of knowledge in the original criteria for the re-thinking of traditional architecture. As a tentative answer to this challenge, this paper attempts to shed light on Mashrabiya (traditional Arab oriel window) as a powerful environmental element in modern architecture, with regard to the important functions that it provides, such as light control, airflow regulation, humidity control, temperature regulation and visual privacy. Due to these functions, Mashrabiya achieved widespread popularity around the old world and it has been revived again in many contemporary projects by different modern versions. The objective of this study also is presenting a general evaluation for the modern Mashrabiya to observe the misconceptions of using the Mashrabiya and to call for stop ignoring of the proper standards of Mashrabiya design and to preserve the original name of this element "Mashrabiya".

Potential Regenerative Impact of Implementation of Cultural Vernacular Elements (Rowshan) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

“…That function of the rowshan in Islamic regions came from the privacy requirement, an essential value of the Islamic culture. Furthermore, the tiny holes allow the rowshan to let light pass through to the interior and prevent direct sunlight; thus, the glare does not increase the interior space temperature [19,22]. The rowshan's design differs from place to place; they are different in size, pattern, construction material, and openings, but mostly they assume the human body's relative size and are constructed of wood, such as teak, ebony, oak, and mahogany.…”

“…Unfortunately, due to countless factors, the usage of rowshans began to decline in the 20th century. Some of these factors include modernity, the growth of globalization and the economy, and decisions to ignore vernacular traditions and the craft industry by relying on mechanical industries [22].…”

“…That function of the rowshan in Islamic regions came from the privacy requirement, an essential value of the Islamic culture. Furthermore, the tiny holes allow the rowshan to let light pass through to the interior and prevent direct sunlight; thus, the glare does not increase the interior space temperature [19,22]. The rowshan's design differs from place to…”

“…Metal or glass does not have the same properties as wood; for these reasons, the new alternative materials must be addressed and must have similar or better properties as wood because the wood properties are related to absorption and evaporative phenomena. For example, during times with sunlight, the rowshan releases moisture into the air that passes through, increasing the humidity within a home and reducing its temperature [22]. Additionally, the rowshan absorbs moisture that is carried by the wind at night and passes through the rowshan holes.…”

“…Additionally, the rowshan absorbs moisture that is carried by the wind at night and passes through the rowshan holes. Also, using metal for rowshan construction is unreasonable because such a detailed metal structure could cause heat gain, leading to more energy use and greater costs [22].…”