Numerical study of the impact of balcony openings in the vernacular architecture of the Aurès on airflow and thermal comfort

This study examines the airflow characteristics of balcony openings in the traditional architecture of the Aurès region, focusing on their role in promoting natural ventilation and ensuring thermal comfort. These balconies, located in Ghoufi, are part of troglodytic homes designed to withstand the harsh arid climate. By utilizing numerical simulations and architectural analysis, the research evaluates the effects of balcony size, shape, and orientation on airflow dynamics and thermal regulation. Results highlight the effectiveness of medium-sized openings in reducing undesirable thermal flows while enhancing natural ventilation, which can reduce energy demand by 15-20%. Additionally, the findings demonstrate the potential of vernacular architectural principles to inspire sustainable design solutions for modern constructions, particularly in arid regions. This work underscores the need for preserving and leveraging traditional design strategies to address contemporary challenges in energy efficiency and ecological construction.