The buoyancy differences between hot and cool air results in a phenomenon known as thermal stratification, in which hot air rises and cool air sinks. This phenomenon is an issue which architecture responds to. To achieve adequate thermal comfort in the occupied zone, natural ventilation techniques are often employed to mix hot and cool air via convection. There is a correlation between the geometry of a roof and its effect on the thermal stratification of the accompanying spaces. With the varying geometries comes varying depths of thermally stratified layers, which greatly varies depending on a specific climate. As such, buildings located within different climates have different roof geometries. There is a wide body of research comparing the thermal behavior of roof geometries, however, the majority consider the roof geometries of buildings in hot-arid climates. In considering this related research and studying the behavior of vernacular architecture practices of hot-humid climates, such as traditional Indonesian architecture, this project seeks to understand why roofs are designed the way that they are. In understanding this, we as architects can employ specific roof geometries to our architectures to more effectively utilize passive strategies.
Jacob Ellerbrock
I am a current MII student from little ole' Miller City, Ohio who is planning on graduating in May of 2022. Trading in the cold Ohio life for warmer weather, I moved to North Carolina in 2020. My research interests include the relationship between water and architecture, as well as the architectural applications and integration of algae.