Traditional Architecture and Energy Conservation: The Role of Spatial Configuration in Hot and Dry Climates

In this study, the effect of spatial configurations on the cooling load in the summer parts of traditional houses in Diyarbakır was investigated. The main objective is to analyse the impact of different spatial configurations on energy consumption, to draw lessons from traditional architecture and to create a guide for modern sustainable building design. This study a systematic methodology was employed, utilising a literature review, case study, space syntax theory and DesignBuilder energy analysis. The cooling load of a total of 53 different scenarios, organised according to spatial configuration parameters, has been analysed. As a result of qualitative and quantitative data, the relationship between semi-open and enclosed spaces directly affects the cooling load. An increase in the spatial depth level can reduce the cooling load to around 50%. In traditional architecture, the proper interaction of the iwan with other spaces has been shown to reduce the cooling load by up to 23%. However, it should be noted that internal heat transfer has the potential to increase the cooling load by up to 10%. These results indicate that spatial configurations influence indoor cooling load. The limited research on their impact on indoor thermal comfort underscores the significance of this study.