Research Article

Revitalizing a Vernacular Architectural Element Through Sustainability: Contemporary Applications of Mashrabiya

Volume: 5 Number: 1 July 4, 2025
TR EN

Revitalizing a Vernacular Architectural Element Through Sustainability: Contemporary Applications of Mashrabiya

Abstract

Purpose: Adequate natural lighting and thermal comfort, key components of sustainable spatial design, can be effectively managed using sunshades. There has been considerable interest in how mashrabiya, a traditional element of vernacular architecture that serves as a form of sun shading, is incorporated into contemporary designs. This study explores the integration of mashrabiya, a traditional architectural feature, into modern design practices, with a focus on sustainability. Conceptual Framework: Currently, there is a growing demand for sustainable solutions across various design fields, with a particular emphasis on architectural elements that reflect cultural values and offer environmental advantages. The mashrabiya, which was originally used for shading and ventilation in hot, dry climates, serves as a prime example of sustainable design principles. This research explores the historical importance, technological developments, and possible uses of mashrabiya in both traditional and contemporary architecture, especially regarding its impact on daylighting design. It assesses how effective mashrabiya is in improving lighting quality, maximizing natural daylight, and enhancing the cultural identity of architectural settings in different parts of the world. By incorporating mashrabiya into modern designs, architects can pay tribute to traditional methods while tackling current environmental issues. Method: This study employed qualitative research methods with data collected through document analysis. Within the framework of sustainability, buildings worldwide related to the subject were examined, focusing on the materials and methods used in both vernacular and modern applications of mashrabiya. The study evaluates sun-shading applications that control natural lighting and provide thermal comfort by analyzing the materials and construction methods used from the past to the present. Aspects of sun shading, including the type of pattern, whether it is fixed or movable, and whether it is two-dimensional or three-dimensional, were examined through various examples. Findings: In local architecture, designs are primarily categorized into two types: plain and projected mashrabiya. Although five distinct patterns are commonly recognized, there are instances in which these patterns are combined. The density of the patterns and textures directly influence the interior lighting and light direction. The patterns analyzed in vernacular architecture can be viewed as two-dimensional sunshades and fixed elements. In modern applications, two design types have been identified: shape-variable and parametric mashrabiya. The examples discussed include moving elements; in the first case, a two-dimensional moving sunshade is referenced, whereas in the second case, a three-dimensional moving sunshade is described. In vernacular architecture, sunshades are typically constructed from wood, whereas modern applications utilize a variety of materials including metal and wood. Conclusion: Initially, thermal comfort was achieved using sunshades and water pots. In contemporary examples of mashrabiya, only sunshade features are used. Traditionally composed of two-dimensional fixed elements, mashrabiya have evolved to incorporate movement in modern applications. Today, it is not only referred to as a shading device but also as an adaptive facade system. With the incorporation of various materials and integration of moving components, these advanced versions differ significantly from traditional designs. In modern applications, shape-variable mashrabiya can be more closely associated with examples found in vernacular architecture.

Keywords

Supporting Institution

There is no supporting institution or funding for the research

Ethical Statement

There are no human subjects in this article and informed consent is not applicable

References

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  5. BAGASI A. A., CALAUTIT J. K., KARBAN A. S. (2021). Evaluation of the Integration of the Traditional Architectural Element Mashrabiya into the Ventilation Strategy for Buildings in Hot Climates. Article in Energies, 1-34. doi:10.3390/en14030530
  6. BANDE L., ASMELASH Y., AHMAD A., CYIZA A., BERENGUERES J. (2023). Evaluation of an Existing Validated Emirati House versus a New Parametric Design Based on the Local Social Environment through the Application of Advanced Tools. Buildings, 13(10), 1-26. doi:10.3390/buildings13102627
  7. BAYOMY N. (2016). Contemporary applications of “Mashrabiya” as a cultural heritage. Journal of Architecture, Arts and Humanistic Science, 349-362. doi: 10.12816/0036528
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Details

Primary Language

English

Subjects

Architectural Design

Journal Section

Research Article

Early Pub Date

July 2, 2025

Publication Date

July 4, 2025

Submission Date

July 17, 2024

Acceptance Date

June 29, 2025

Published in Issue

Year 2025 Volume: 5 Number: 1

APA
Jetto, B. A., & Yıldırım, S. G. (2025). Revitalizing a Vernacular Architectural Element Through Sustainability: Contemporary Applications of Mashrabiya. ART/Icle:/Sanat/Ve/Tasarım/Dergisi, 5(1), 15-36. https://doi.org/10.56590/stdarticle.1517273
AMA
1.Jetto BA, Yıldırım SG. Revitalizing a Vernacular Architectural Element Through Sustainability: Contemporary Applications of Mashrabiya. ART/icle. 2025;5(1):15-36. doi:10.56590/stdarticle.1517273
Chicago
Jetto, Byan A., and Semih Göksel Yıldırım. 2025. “Revitalizing a Vernacular Architectural Element Through Sustainability: Contemporary Applications of Mashrabiya”. ART/Icle:/Sanat/Ve/Tasarım/Dergisi 5 (1): 15-36. https://doi.org/10.56590/stdarticle.1517273.
EndNote
Jetto BA, Yıldırım SG (July 1, 2025) Revitalizing a Vernacular Architectural Element Through Sustainability: Contemporary Applications of Mashrabiya. ART/icle: Sanat ve Tasarım Dergisi 5 1 15–36.
IEEE
[1]B. A. Jetto and S. G. Yıldırım, “Revitalizing a Vernacular Architectural Element Through Sustainability: Contemporary Applications of Mashrabiya”, ART/icle, vol. 5, no. 1, pp. 15–36, July 2025, doi: 10.56590/stdarticle.1517273.
ISNAD
Jetto, Byan A. - Yıldırım, Semih Göksel. “Revitalizing a Vernacular Architectural Element Through Sustainability: Contemporary Applications of Mashrabiya”. ART/icle: Sanat ve Tasarım Dergisi 5/1 (July 1, 2025): 15-36. https://doi.org/10.56590/stdarticle.1517273.
JAMA
1.Jetto BA, Yıldırım SG. Revitalizing a Vernacular Architectural Element Through Sustainability: Contemporary Applications of Mashrabiya. ART/icle. 2025;5:15–36.
MLA
Jetto, Byan A., and Semih Göksel Yıldırım. “Revitalizing a Vernacular Architectural Element Through Sustainability: Contemporary Applications of Mashrabiya”. ART/Icle:/Sanat/Ve/Tasarım/Dergisi, vol. 5, no. 1, July 2025, pp. 15-36, doi:10.56590/stdarticle.1517273.
Vancouver
1.Byan A. Jetto, Semih Göksel Yıldırım. Revitalizing a Vernacular Architectural Element Through Sustainability: Contemporary Applications of Mashrabiya. ART/icle. 2025 Jul. 1;5(1):15-36. doi:10.56590/stdarticle.1517273

Cited By

ART/icle: Journal of Art and Design

ISSN: 2718-1057
e-ISSN: 2791-7665