From Stasis to Motion: Enhancing Environmental Performance through Dynamic Architecture Techniques – A Reimagining of Traditional MashRabiya in Contemporary Case Study design Commercial Building Design in Egypt (Mokattam area, Cairo)

Hassan, Mohamed

doi:10.21608/jesaun.2025.360974.1428

From Stasis to Motion: Enhancing Environmental Performance through Dynamic Architecture Techniques – A Reimagining of Traditional MashRabiya in Contemporary Case Study design Commercial Building Design in Egypt (Mokattam area, Cairo)

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Mohamed Hassan

Architecture Department, Modern Academy for Engineering and Technology, Cairo, Egypt.

10.21608/jesaun.2025.360974.1428

Abstract

In the context of contemporary developments in Arab cities, there is an observable trend towards the excessive use of glass and concrete in buildings, accompanied by a heavy reliance on electrical air conditioning systems for interior spaces. This architectural approach raises questions regarding its suitability for the region's social, cultural, and climatic considerations. Thus, there is a pressing need to reassess imported ideas and theories before their application, particularly in the design of sustainable buildings, which have become the greatest challenge facing designers and architects today. In this regard, building facades serve as the first line of defence for controlling heat transfer within structures, and traditional wooden lattice windows known for their thermal comfort benefits can significantly reduce energy consumption in hot regions. These architectural elements have deep roots in the region's heritage and reflect local identity. With technological advancements and the need to enhance the thermal performance of buildings, the application of kinetic architecture as an approach to achieve greater flexibility and adaptability in architectural design can prove beneficial in developing contemporary lattice windows that dynamically respond to changing environmental conditions, thus enhancing their thermal performance and energy efficiency. Therefore, this research discusses the applied scientific methodology for utilizing this approach in commercial building design.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Architecture Engineering and the Engineering Architectural Interior Design.

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