Passive control methods for a comfortable indoor environment: Comparative investigation of traditional and modern architecture of Kerala in summer

Scientific investigation on traditional architecture of Kerala, that is known for its use of natural and passive methods for a comfortable indoor environment, has been revealing remarkable results recently. Qualitative analysis of the passive methods adopted in traditional buildings and detailed quantitative investigation carried out during all seasons to evaluate thermal comfort have already been reported. As a step ahead, in order to understand the performance of traditional building in comparison with that of modern building, a field study was conducted simultaneously in a selected traditional and a modern residential building during the most unpleasant summer period. The study was conducted by continuously monitoring the indoor and outdoor conditions of both the buildings using a custom made instrument called “Architectural Evaluation System”. The results reveal that an efficient passive and natural control system exists in Kerala traditional architecture in providing a comfortable indoor environment irrespective of the outdoor climatic conditions.