Ingenious Rainwater Harvesting System within the Algiers Ottoman Residential Buildings (Reconstitution and Performance Assessment)

Abstract

This article deals more particularly with the architectural reconstitution and the hydraulic checking of the rainwater harvesting system (RWH-system) installation in some residential buildings in Ottoman Algiers (16th to 18th centuries), where this water was intended for various domestic uses. This work was applied to two cases (Khdawedj-El'Amia and HassanPasha palaces). An architectural reconstitution by three-dimensional modeling was made based on investigations and bibliographic research on the system. In contrast, hydraulic verification was made according to the current European sizing standards based on rainfall records for over 100 years. The results indicate that these buildings are equipped with an innovative and efficient hydraulic system based on relativity between rain, roof, and stored volume (djeb), according to current standards; this system has the potential to meet the needs of the populations and ensure their water autonomy, particularly in times of water scarcity. And consequently, rainwater management in a secure way. On the other hand, the results assess the possibility of returning the RWH system to function today. It provides helpful information to develop an action plan and intervention strategies for restoring the (RWHsystem) in the heritage residential buildings for improving sustainability and maintaining the built heritage values of the historic Ottoman Algiers.