Analysis of traditional rural houses in Turkey in terms of energy efficiency

Abstract

Energy consumption of recent buildings in Turkey continues to increase, as it does around the world. Conversely, traditional rural house types perform well in terms of energy efficiency. This study investigated the energy efficiency methods applied in traditional rural houses in the rural Thrace region of Turkey, built using timber, stone and adobe construction methods. The energy-efficient characteristics of the sample structures were identified by investigating their site layout, plan types, building outer shell design and material specifications. This study concludes that in traditional rural houses, prevention of heat-loss has been regarded as highly important; solar energy is highly utilised and the colloquial architecture is well suited to the climatic conditions of the region. This study may contribute to the increased awareness of this subject among designers. The ecological characteristics of traditional rural houses can be applied to current buildings by evaluating and replicating these characteristics. © 2013 Taylor & Francis.