Bioclimatic Architecture: Housing and Sustainability

The aim of this paper is to discuss the idea of bioclimatic architecture from its genesis to the presentation of the most advanced contemporary examples. Different ways of adapting dwelling to the climate are compared and analysed. The basic solutions are commonly found in vernacular building. Some modifications and improvements can be also observed while particular methods differ depending on the regional traditions, available materials, developed techniques etc. Today, with the application of cutting-edge technology, bioclimatic building is based on much more advanced systems, both passive and active. Also the respect towards nature is declared by most of the architects. However, in many cases a more detailed investigation reveals the lack of understanding of the complexity and fragilness of the existing ecosystems. So called green or sustainable buildings, although constructed from renewable materials and even awarded with energy certificates, are often designed without proper analysis of the specifics of local environment, neither natural nor cultural. The opportunities created by the building location, especially in terms of occurring bioclimatic conditions are usually ignored. The author of this paper describes how indigenous climatic solutions from vernacular building evolve from simple to more complex systems and how they are smartly combined with the newest technology to create mature and conscious bioclimatic architecture. Two presented case studies are some of the best examples illustrating how the concept of bioclimatic architecture works in practice and what opportunities are created by that.