Effect of mosque architectural style on its thermal performance

Abstract EN

Mosque acquires its importance from being the main spiritual centre for Muslims.

Hundreds of thousands of mosques have been constructed to serve Muslims across the world.

This resulted in a wide diversity of design criteria, where different architectural elements and styles could be distinguished.

This study aims to discuss the rationale and characteristics of these architectural styles in addition to their effect on mosque thermal performance.

Computerised environmental modelling has been implemented using Ecotect program to compare four modelling cases that represent different geometries and geographical locations.

Results obtained show the significant effect of mosque architectural style on its thermal performance.

The different modelled cases showed different behaviours in terms of building occupants' thermal comfort, where a variation up to 80% has been observed.