The interaction of climate, culture, and building type on built form : a computer simulation study of energy performance of historic buildings

Abstract

This study addresses one of the central issues of architecture -- the evolution of built forms. The dissertation offers a new conceptual model that analyzes the interactive effect of culture and climate on architectural form. The model states that the extent of architectural modifications in response to climate is a function of the relation of different buildings to culture. Specifically, it is hypothesized that buildings serving functions that are associated with cultural symbols or values -- such as churches -- are less likely to be influenced by climatic demands than houses where comfort plays a greater role in the design. The hypothesis is tested on a sample of community churches and single-family houses that were constructed during 1850-90 by immigrants arriving to South Central Texas from North Europe. The immigrants brought to Texas architectural forms that represented their origin (homeland). These 'imported' forms did not suit the new climate, and hence triggered architectural adaptations. The extent of the architectural modification of these building was assessed by measuring their energy performance. A computerized energy simulation was used to compare the energy performances of the houses and churches in their actual Texan location and as if "transplanted" to the geographical origin in northern Europe. The findings of the study confirm the research hypothesis and lend support to the conceptual model. The findings also demonstrate the utility of computer simulation in testing environmental theories. The discussion of this work highlights the following issues: the role of building types in the study of the built form, the architectural form in an historic context, and the importance of understanding immigration waves and the impact of their culture and heritage on the built environment.