An exploration of climate-responsive design strategies employed by the El-Miniawy brothers in Southern Algeria

In an age marked by globalization, contemporary design, and diminishing regional distinctiveness, particularly concerning its impact on climate, the integration of passive strategies and climate-responsive design emerges as a critical element in forward-thinking architecture that embraces the unique climatic conditions of various locales. Consequently, this paper offers an in-depth examination of the climate-responsive design implemented by two pioneering architects who specialized primarily in housing projects in Southern Algeria. This investigation is further enriched by on-site measurements conducted on selected case studies. The findings reveal that, on typical scorching days, the actual indoor operational temperatures in 400 housing units situated in El-Oued range from 20.1 °C to 38.9 °C, whereas in 600 housing units in Ouled Djellal, temperatures fluctuate between 31.2 °C and 35.4 °C. It is noteworthy that outdoor air temperatures can soar to as high as 40 °C in El-Oued and 43 °C in Ouled Djellal during peak hours. The architectural achievements of the El-Miniawy brothers in Algeria's southern region stand as tangible examples of architecture that adeptly adapts to the harsh, arid climate. This study underscores the importance of climate-responsive design and passive strategies and offers valuable insights into the indoor thermal environment. Ultimately, this research is poised to inspire architects and decision-makers in their future housing projects.