Evaluation of the Wind Catcher in the Traditional Cairene Courtyard Houses' Integrated Passive System for Natural Ventilation and Cooling

Abstract

Many Islamic architectural features have been used continuously in Cairene Courtyard houses as one of the primary environmental standards. Wind catcher represents the keystone of passive green features among other used features. The response of chosen case studies to the thermal environment had proven to vary concerning the type of green features involved and its role in the whole integrated system. The evaluation matrix act as a model in assessing the performance of eco-architecture features regarding the type of integrated system. Wind catcher ended up being effective in expanding the efficiency of passive integration system for ventilation and cooling; especially when the opportunity is taken to involve other green features in the early design phase. It is recommended to take into consideration, the involvement of passive integrated systems in architectural projects. Accordingly, we can conserve energy, mitigate climatic changes, and achieve thermal comfort; besides preserving the local identity of the built environment.