Preface
The book operates under the hypothesis that the thermal function of a building could be
used as an element of design
o Thermal qualities
Warm, cool, humid, airy, radiant, cozy
Influence how we feel about a space
Thermal qualities are often neglected
o A/C unit in the back of a building, very plain and mechanical
How do the thermal qualities of a building affect peoples’ experience of it?
o Fireplace is an example of thermal use
Now replaced by a heating unit
Used to be the center of family life; turned a house into a home
Islamic garden
o Cool oasis in the center of an Islamic home
There are two archetypes in thermal architecture
o Hearth
Dry warmth in cold world
o Oasis
Preserve of coolness and moisture in a desert wilderness
Necessity
Delight
Affection