Mzabite Heritage in Southern Algeria: What Bioclimatic Lessons can Be Learned to Optimize Thermal Comfort?

¹ LabETAP, Architecture and urbanism institute, University of SaadDahleb, Algeria
² LabGC, Department of Architecture, University of AmmarTelidji, Algerai

Abstract

It is urgent to act currently on the problems of overconsumption of energy as well as the environment and the economy. Energy is a direct mechanical source of many devices of an artificial thermal environment of the modern habitat. To cope with the consequences of the exceed consumption of domestic use, architecture takes part by focusing on the old constructive and functional solutions. The researchers are interested even fascinated by ancient and vernacular architecture; its buildings are a masterpiece of urban planning in matters of environment. Our study has clearly chosen as an example The Mzab valley; a qualitative and retrospective analysis which aims to describe and classify all the solutions and traditional climate strategies developed by the Mzabites to produce a real thermal comfort and a residential heritage to fight against climatic solicitations. We have checked and observed in parallel if these strategies are convergent or divergent with the recommendations and the needs of the specific comfort in our case study and predetermined in this paper by the method of Givoni. This analysis has shown that Mzabite architecture symbolizes an ancient bioclimatic knowledge, Its strategies generate a perfect harmony between climate, habitat and occupant, they formed an inspiring reference and exemplary lessons available of the designers; by re-adapting these ancient solutions and techniques of our ancestors with a suitable manner to contemporary architecture, and contributing to the improvement of comfortable climate.