Sometimes understated, sometimes not
windows lend mood and character to a place. Especially, the ones that belong to
old architecture aesthetically appealing and functional – they did more than
just let light in.
Along
with the high-rises that give a modernistic edge to the UAE, there exists architecture
reminiscent of era rich in tradition and old world wisdom. Many old houses
built according to the principles of traditional architecture continue to add
an antiquated character to the place. Walk into a cluster of traditional home
and the magical chiaroscuro through traditional windows provides fascinating
insights in to the architectural detailing of olden times.
According
to the Ahamed Mohomed Ahamed, head of the historical buildings department and Dubai
municipality, windows play a very pivotal role in ventilation and lighting of
homes. They were not just important for decoration to enhance the beauty of the
house, but were also rigid sentinels guarding the all important air flow and
natural light and heat distribution at home. In extreme weather this was significant,
as it was most central to the natural cooling of homes in the absence of modern
air-conditioning system.
Apart
from the window towers or barjeel (a long tunnel trapping cool air for
ventilation into homes) traditional masons and architectures paid great attention
to window detailing. Certain principles were always kept in mind while building
a house in the olden days.
Walls
of houses were thick and well insulated to minimize heat gain by conducting and
windows on the walls were constructed very carefully.
In
order to avoid direct heat, very few windows were built into the exterior walls
of the house (facing the street). If there were windows on the side, they were
made really small, almost like decorative slits. Most houses had courtyard
normally had trees and this ensured that softer sunlight entered the rooms. So
there was a cooler circulation of air accompanied y by sufficient natural
lights.
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Even
large windows had wooden teak bars crises-crossing to ensure less heat and
light and more air circulations into the rooms. Teak wood was used in panels to
construct windows, the former having iron or brass studs.
The
windows were divided in two sections so that only the top half could be opened
if desired. This helped in blocking out excess heat and allowing more air. The
window had simple vertical iron grills for security.
So
this is end of the deal of the light and shades post. Will be come back to you
soon from a new news post.
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light and shades |
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light and shades |
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light and shades |
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light and shades |
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