windtowers

Windtowers are a traditional form of passive cooling architecture found in many arid and semi-arid regions. Also known as malqaf or badgir, they are designed to capture prevailing winds and direct them down into a building, providing ventilation and a cooling effect. This ancient technology predates modern air conditioning and has been employed for centuries in places like Persia, Egypt, and India.

The design of a windtower varies, but generally consists of a tall, vertical shaft that rises above the roofline of a building. The top of the shaft is open or has louvers that are strategically oriented to catch the wind from different directions. As the wind enters the shaft, it is channeled downwards. In some designs, the shaft may incorporate internal baffles or channels to further enhance air flow and induce a cooling effect.

The cooling mechanism relies on several principles. Firstly, the influx of cooler outside air displaces warmer indoor air. Secondly, as the air descends the shaft, it can pass over water, such as a underground cistern or a small fountain, which leads to evaporative cooling. This process significantly lowers the air temperature before it enters the living spaces.

Windtowers are an environmentally friendly and sustainable cooling solution, requiring no electricity. Their effectiveness is dependent on wind speed and ambient temperature. Modern architectural designs sometimes incorporate elements inspired by windtowers to improve natural ventilation and reduce energy consumption in contemporary buildings.