Climate and sustainability in architecture: analysis of challenges and limitations for universal solutions in the design of single-family houses

Open Access
Article
Conference Proceedings
Authors: Alicja MaciejkoMichal GrzeskowiakAntonina Kowalska

Abstract: The aim of the article is to analyze the influence of different climatic conditions on the development of architectural forms of single-family houses. The study focuses on a modular, prefabricated structure with a simple form, ensuring flexibility and adaptability to different environmental conditions. The authors, a geographer and an architect, examined six selected locations representing different climatic zones, chosen for their distinct environmental characteristics and relevance to global climate diversity. The analysis is based on the SWOT method, taking into account adaptation strategies, possibilities of implementing the principles of sustainable development and the relationship between design and environmental conditions. The article puts forward the thesis that universal architectural solutions have limited effectiveness due to specific climatic and environmental requirements. However, appropriately designed adaptability of modular forms allows to overcome these limitations. The conclusions indicate that achieving sustainable and ecological design is possible by adapting techniques, materials and architectural forms to local climatic conditions. For the purposes of the study, an original design of a modular prefabricated house with a frame structure was developed, consisting of 4×4 m modules, creating a body with the dimensions of 8×16 m. This model was selected due to its potential for easy adaptation to different locations and user needs. The analysis was conducted in the form of a theoretical design simulation, which resulted in guidelines for the optimal shaping of modules, their perforation and computer models of buildings. The study is based on the author's hybrid classification of climate zones, extending the traditional Köppen-Geiger system with additional factors relevant to architecture, such as extreme weather events, humidity levels, sun exposure, geotechnical conditions, etc. The SWOT analysis allowed to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the modular construction in different climatic contexts, taking into account material efficiency, construction possibilities and passive adaptation strategies. The research results prove that universal architectural solutions are inherently limited by climatic factors. However, the use of modularity and flexibility of forms enables effective adaptation of designs to local conditions. The article contributes to the discussion on adaptive architecture by presenting a design framework for modular residential buildings, combining standardization with flexible adaptation to local conditions.

Keywords: Climate Change Adaptation, Modular Buildings, Single-Family Homes, Prefabricated Architecture, Sustainability, Flexibility Sustainable design

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1006612

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