Introduction. This study examines the transformation of a historic building in downtown Amman, Jordan, into a heritage hotel, aiming to preserve architectural and cultural identity while meeting modern hospitality standards. As urban areas experience increasing development pressure, the challenge lies in maintaining structural integrity and historical character while integrating essential contemporary amenities. This research addresses these challenges and highlights the role of sustainable design in heritage hotels. Downtown Amman, rich in cultural heritage, provides an ideal setting for exploring adaptive reuse in hotel design. The study seeks to balance preservation and modernization, emphasizing the importance of heritage in tourism and cultural continuity. Given the complexity of the urban environment, architectural preservation supports both local identity and economic growth. Methods. The study employs a mixed-method approach, including case studies, literature review, and field analysis, to examine sustainable design interventions in heritage hotels. Particular attention was given to adaptive reuse, green building techniques, and regulatory frameworks. Interviews with stakeholders and site assessments provided practical insights into the restoration and adaptation process. Results. The results indicate that heritage hotels can successfully integrate cultural preservation with functionality, creating a sustainable model for historic sites. The adaptive use of energy-efficient systems and locally sourced materials enabled the hotel to retain its historic character while meeting the needs of contemporary guests. This approach proved both culturally significant and economically viable. Discussion. This research highlights the dual importance of heritage preservation and economic viability in urban centers such as Amman. Key challenges include strict regulatory compliance and modern building standards. The study recommends adopting more flexible regulations to support innovative design solutions and involving local communities to foster cultural engagement. The Amman project serves as a model for other cities, demonstrating that adaptive reuse can enhance urban heritage while supporting sustainable tourism.
Introduction. Recent advances in computational design have transformed architectural facades from static envelopes into dynamic systems capable of adapting to environmental conditions in order to enhance thermal comfort and energy efficiency. Purpose of the study. This study aims to evaluate the thermal performance of an adaptive biomimetic building skin (ABBS), inspired by plant thermoregulation mechanisms, applied to a typical residential building located in Guelma, Algeria, which is characterized by a hot Mediterranean climate. Methods. Following the thermal validation of a base model, the research integrated two complementary approaches: a problem-driven biomimetic strategy to define the morphology and kinetic behavior of facade modules, and a parametric simulation workflow developed in Rhino Grasshopper, coupled with the Ladybug and Honeybee plugins for environmental and energy analysis. The ABBS was tested under five aperture configurations (−30° to +30°) across east, south, and west orientations during representative summer and winter periods, based on the ASHRAE Standard 55 adaptive comfort model. Results. The results demonstrate that the best-performing scenarios achieved up to a 17.7 % reduction in overheating hours during summer and up to a 22 % improvement in thermal comfort during winter through enhanced passive solar gains. This study confirms the potential of bio-inspired responsive facades to optimize indoor thermal conditions and highlights the effectiveness of computational biomimicry as a pathway toward climate-adaptive and energy-efficient architectural envelopes contributing to sustainable building design.
Introduction. Desa Harapan Baru, one of the traditional villages in East Kalimantan, is located in a remote coastal area. Limited transportation access, lack of clean water, and poor environmental hygiene are among the major issues faced by the community. As a result, villagers rely on natural resources available around them — such as ulin timber for construction and generators for electricity supply. However, insufficient knowledge of construction practices and reforestation has negatively affected the environment, contributing to flooding in the area. Furthermore, since the generators are situated in a remote location, fuel prices have doubled. Purpose of the study. This study aims to design a nearly zero-energy multipurpose building (nZEMB) that aligns with local traditions and community needs. Besides improving the local economy, the project intends to raise awareness about sustainability. Methods. Several methods were employed during the design process. First, an assessment of local behavior and cultural practices was conducted to ensure easier community adaptation to new technologies. Solar PV was then selected and installed on the nZEMB roof. PV performance was simulated using PVsyst, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis was carried out with Ansys Fluent, and energy efficiency was evaluated using DesignBuilder. Results. The renewable energy system — consisting of 17 solar panels — can fully meet the energy demand of the nZEMB in Desa Harapan Baru. Total daily energy consumption is 59.19 kWh, while the solar panels can generate up to 120 kWh. Additionally, incorporating traditional roof openings and a raised-floor design enhances natural airflow and reduces overall energy use.
Introduction. This paper presents a laboratory study investigating the mechanical behavior of silty soil reinforced with hydraulic binders (cement and lime) using a direct shear apparatus. A series of direct shear tests was performed on silty soils treated with hydraulic binders. Methods. The tests were conducted at a relative density of 50 %, under three normal stresses, with cement and lime contents of 0, 1, 3, 5, and 7 %, and a water content of 10 %. Results. The shear strength of cement-treated silt increases with cement content up to 6 % and then stabilizes. For lime-treated silt, the shear strength decreases at a lime content of 1 % and then stabilizes; thus, the contractive behavior increases with higher lime content. The internal friction angle increases with cement content and then stabilizes, with a slight decrease observed at a cement content of 7 %. Cohesion increases linearly with cement content. Lime addition enhances soil contractiveness; cohesion increases slightly up to a lime content of 3 % and then decreases. For the silt treated with the cement–lime mixture, the test results show that shear strength increases with normal stress compared to the untreated soil.
Inroduction. The thermal baths located in the western part of ancient Caesarea Mauretaniae, dating from the late second century AD, were constructed using a combination of flat bricks and blocks made from stones of various lithologies, nearly 90 % of which are calcarenite. This study aims to assess the state of conseration of this stone used in one of the most significant thermal structures within the built heritage of Cherchell. Methods. The investigation involved determining the physico-mechanical properties of selected samples, collecting rainwater, and recording in situ thermo-hygrometric parameters. Sound and weathered surfaces were characterised using polarizing microscopy, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Results. Field observations reveal advanced deterioration of the calcarenite, manifested by the formation of black crusts, alveolization, granular disintegration, and superficial salt efflorescences. Physico-chemical analyses confirm the presence of marine-derived salts, as well as deposits associated with atmospheric pollution. The combined dataset indicates that the deterioration dynamics of the calcarenite are driven by marine salt inputs and atmospheric pollutants, whose effects are amplified by local climatic conditions. These interacting factors account for the accelerated degradation processes observed within the studied thermal structures.
Introduction. The efficiency and successful application of various protective coatings necessitate the investigation of coating–substrate interactions to ensure durability and reliability. Adhesion is a key parameter that determines the quality of bonding between a coating and a substrate surface. Existing methods for its assessment are continually being improved to enhance accuracy, versatility, and applicability to various types of coatings and substrates. Purpose of the study. The study is aimed at assessing the adhesion strength of coatings deposited by detonation spraying onto heavy-concrete surfaces and refining the methodology for determining adhesion strength for the corresponding tests. Methods. In the course of the study, Raman spectroscopy, axial pull-off adhesion testing, optical microscopy, and rotational viscometry were used. Results. Adhesion strength tests were performed on Ti–TiOx coatings deposited on concrete substrates by detonation spraying of powders under different modes. The resulting coatings exhibit high adhesion strength to the substrate, ranging from 0.32 to 3.77 MPa, and low porosity. A special fixture was pre-developed for adhesion testing of specimens with linear dimensions of 30 mm and larger. A study was conducted on the applicability of a series of epoxy resins for adhesion testing. It was found that, when testing coatings on porous substrates, it is important to consider the viscosity of the adhesive agents, since highly mobile formulations may penetrate deeply into the specimen and distort the results.
Introduction. Massive monolithic foundation slabs are prone to early-age cracking caused by the exothermic heat of hydration of concrete. Selecting optimal strategies to address this issue can be achieved through computer-based simulations. Purpose of the study. The study is aimed at developing a simplified finite element model to determine the stress–strain state of foundation slabs during construction while accounting for foundation soil compliance, and validating this model against existing experimental data as well as results reported by other authors. In the course of the study, the following methods were used: finite element modeling with plate finite elements in the MATLAB environment, employing software developed by the authors that reduces the three-dimensional problem of determining the stress–strain state to a two-dimensional formulation. The foundation bed was modeled using the Pasternak model with two foundation moduli. The results show that the proposed solution is in good agreement with the numerical modeling data obtained by other researchers in a three-dimensional setting. Satisfactory agreement with the experimental results was also achieved. A study was conducted to assess the influence of the reinforcement ratio and the coefficient of linear thermal expansion of concrete on the stress–strain state.
Introduction. This study evaluates the impact of lake water levels, rainfall, and the presence of small pits on the stability of the banks of Bau Trang Lake, a national scenic site in Binh Thuan Province, Vietnam. Methods. To assess the slope stability safety factor, several scenarios were simulated using GeoStudio 2024 software with the SEEP/W and SLOPE/W modules. Results. With a safety factor reduction of less than 1%, the results show that the small pit has a minimal effect on lake bank stability. The lake water level plays a critical role: low water levels increase the likelihood of instability, whereas high water levels enhance stability and lower pore water pressure. Particularly when combined with low water levels, intense or prolonged rainfall significantly decreases the safety factor by increasing soil saturation and reducing shear strength. The study recommends maintaining stable water levels, reinforcing high-risk areas, and implementing effective drainage systems to mitigate the effects of rainfall. These findings provide a scientific basis for sustainable management strategies to preserve the environment and landscape of Bau Trang Lake, and guide future research on shoreline stability under geological and climatic influences.
Introduction: The influence of the level of building facade detail (protruding and recessed balconies, fins, and other facade elements) — referred to as facade faceting — on the results of wind load simulations has been examined in various studies. It has been established that a higher level of facade faceting in models improves the consistency of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) results with results of wind tunnel experiments. However, in order to simplify calculations, under certain conditions, some details may be neglected. Nevertheless, clear recommendations regarding the degree to which such simplifications affect the final accuracy of simulation are rarely found. Purpose of the study: In this study, the influence of facade faceting detail on the distribution of wind flows around the investigated object was assessed using computational and experimental modeling. Methods: Physical testing of scale models of unique buildings and structures in a wind tunnel, as well as numerical simulation of wind effects, were carried out. Results: The study demonstrated a significant impact of facade faceting detail on the distribution of wind loads around the investigated building model. It is recommended to design facade structures with consideration of the turbulence effects of wind flow associated with their actual geometry. At the same time, the design of load-bearing structures should account for the maximum possible wind loads without incorporating facade faceting detailing.
Introduction: In Algeria, the housing sector accounts for a significant portion of the country’s energy consumption, making creative solutions essential for improving energy efficiency. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers effective tools to optimize energy use and reduce the ecological footprint. Purpose of the study: This study examines the methodological aspects of integrating AI into the energy efficiency management system of Algeria’s housing stock. Methods: The Six W’s approach was employed to analyze AI integration in this context through two steps. First, the theoretical framework was established. Second, a case study was conducted to better understand the context and explore potential solutions from multiple perspectives. Results: The findings of AI integration in urban areas fall into two main categories. The first concerns the stakeholders involved, the methods of AI integration, and the spatio-temporal context. The second addresses the motivation and rationale for selecting specific AI integration strategies, as well as the aspects of AI technologies to be adopted.
Introduction: Climate change, heat waves, greenhouse gas emissions, and global warming have become a never-ending cycle, contributing to environmental degradation and causing discomfort to humans and other living beings. To address climate change, research on the thermal comfort of buildings has been conducted and developed since 1946, using both passive and active thermal comfort strategies. To understand the evolution of thermal comfort, this paper aims to establish the progression and principles of thermal comfort research. Methodology: A narrative literature review method was adopted to analyze the progress of thermal comfort research. A total of 122 selected articles examined concepts, models, architectural perspectives, standards, and policies related to thermal comfort. Results and discussion: Thermal comfort has evolved from the invention of air conditioning to the application of passive thermal comfort strategies in buildings. Thermal comfort research has consistently identified six key parameters that have improved our understanding of indoor thermal comfort. Moreover, the use of innovative technologies in thermal comfort studies can enhance occupant health and well-being. An interdisciplinary approach to thermal comfort research is therefore necessary. Recommendations: This study outlines the sequence of thermal comfort research, including innovations in models, simulation, prediction, and emerging challenges. As such, it will help future researchers, developers, and other stakeholders in the built environment to fill gaps and connect past findings with future directions.
Introduction. The paper investigates the dependence of seismic displacements of high-rise buildings on the control parameters of a reactive damper (vibration absorber). A frequency-vector analysis of a building’s finite element model is performed. The building’s response to non-stationary seismic loads is analyzed with respect to changes in damper parameters: the specified control displacement, the ejection velocity of the reactive jet, and the duration of a single reactive impulse. An algorithm for optimizing the controlled damper parameters is presented. The effectiveness of using a reactive damper to reduce the amplitude of oscillations in a high-rise building is evaluated. Reactive vibration dampers are installed at either one or two levels along the building’s height. Methods. A mathematical model of the “high-rise building – reactive damper” system under non-stationary (seismic) loading was studied using a software suite based on the finite element method (FEM). The dynamic response of the structure was determined by numerically solving the system of differential equations of motion using Newmark’s step-by-step method, implemented by the authors in the Matrix Laboratory environment as a software package. Results. The effectiveness of the reactive damper in reducing the amplitude of oscillations in mechanical systems (high-rise buildings) under non-stationary loads is demonstrated. It is assumed that under seismic loading, the damper activates when the displacement of one of the structural nodes exceeds a predetermined value, and the velocity vector of that node determines the direction of the reactive force. Equations of motion for the finite element model of a plate-rod system with an active damper operating on the reactive jet principle are presented. In the Matrix Laboratory interactive numerical computing environment, a software package was developed to solve the system of differential equations describing the motion of the plate-rod FE model of a high-rise building with a damping system. Graphs are provided showing how the effectiveness of the damper varies depending on such parameters as the velocity and duration of the reactive jet ejection (Vgas and Tgas) as well as the allowable deviation (displacement threshold for damper activation, δmax) The influence of these parameters on damper performance was studied. It was found that the use of a reactive damper with optimally selected parameters reduces the amplitude range of oscillations by 50–80 %, i.e., the reactive system effectively suppresses mechanical vibrations of buildings and structures. A software package was developed to select optimal reactive damper parameters for a given high-rise building.
Introduction: One of the most pressing challenges today is global warming, which has significantly increased building temperatures. Developing cost-effective solutions to mitigate indoor overheating is therefore a key architectural task. This paper examines the impact of breathing facades on ventilation and indoor air quality, with a particular focus on the relationship between biomimicry and facade design. It emphasizes how biomimicry can inspire architects to address environmental challenges and explores the concept of “breathing skins” through two case studies. Purpose of the study: The study aims to analyze the connection between biomimicry and breathing facades, and to evaluate their effectiveness in enhancing indoor air quality and reducing building temperatures. Methods: The methodology combines inductive and analytical approaches within the framework of a systematic literature review, complemented by comparative analysis to assess the performance of innovative facade systems. Results indicate that smart breathing facades have significant potential to reduce pollution levels and improve urban livability.
Introduction: Fenestration design is critical for building energy efficiency in warm-humid climates, where solar radiation through windows significantly affects the overall thermal transfer value (OTTV). Many buildings in Indonesia do not adequately address location-specific envelope design, potentially due to limited experimental research on appropriate designs for Indonesia’s diverse climates. Purpose of the study: This study aims to examine the impact of different window design strategies on building thermal transfer across Indonesian cities. Methods: A sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the influence of window design on the OTTV in three geographically distinct Indonesian cities: Banda Aceh (Northern Hemisphere), Pontianak (Equator), and Yogyakarta (Southern Hemisphere). Using a building information modeling (BIM)-based OTTV calculator in Autodesk Revit and Dynamo, 3,600 window variations were generated and represented in 180 line graphs. Variations included window-to-wall ratio (WWR), glazing properties, and shading devices. Results: The analysis indicates that WWR has a more significant effect on the OTTV than the shading coefficient (SC), with reductions of up to 46 W/m² when WWR decreased from 65 % to 25 %. Shading dimensions proved more influential on the OTTV than glazing properties, highlighting the critical role of shading configuration in thermal performance. Optimizing WWR and implementing standardized shading systems can significantly enhance energy efficiency and thermal comfort, especially in tropical climates with high solar exposure. These findings encourage early design-stage exploration of WWR and shading combinations to achieve compliance with energy standards while maintaining design flexibility.
Introduction: The relevance of seismic isolation is driven by the need to improve the safety of buildings and structures in conditions of high seismic activity. Earthquakes pose a serious threat to human life and can result in significant economic and material losses. With the development of urbanization and increasing building density in earthquakeprone regions, there is growing demand for methods that effectively mitigate the destructive impact of seismic waves on structures. Purpose of the study: The study aims to analyze the performance of a high-rise reinforced concrete building with a sliding belt, taking into account the nonlinear nature of deformation. Methods: Calculations were performed using the LS-DYNA software through the direct dynamic method with explicit schemes for direct integration of the equations of motion, employing a nonlinear model of concrete and reinforcement. Foundation–structure interaction was modeled using the substructure method, while the nonlinear behavior of the soil foundation was described by the Mohr–Coulomb model. Results and discussion: The analysis shows a decrease in the effectiveness of seismic isolation in the form of a sliding belt at the foundation level of high-rise buildings. Considering all structural characteristics, it is possible to select optimal parameters for the seismic isolation sliding belt to effectively protect the building from seismic loads.
Introduction: This paper explores how nature-inspired mathematical models and principles are applied in architectural design and how these approaches contribute to innovative and sustainable solutions. Architectural structures incorporating nature-inspired and mathematical models have been widely studied in the literature. However, research examining the relationship between nature and mathematics specifically within the field of architecture remains limited. Addressing this gap, the study investigates the interplay between mathematics and nature in architectural design. Its contribution lies in providing a holistic examination of mathematical models in architecture. Within the scope of the study, five examples demonstrating different mathematical theorems were analyzed. Methods: The structures were evaluated using qualitative content analysis, while the mathematical models were identified through visual content analysis. The findings are summarized in a table. Conclusion: Architecture is profoundly shaped by the relationship between nature and mathematics. Analyzing the mathematics inherent in nature and applying these principles in design serves as a guide for creating aesthetically pleasing, sustainable, and innovative buildings.
Introduction. The production of concrete products with complex shapes that are thin-walled, durable, and resistant to environmental influences — while retaining their decorative appearance during service and maximizing the use of industrial (secondary) mineral raw materials — poses a significant challenge. This challenge is particularly pronounced when producing white-colored products, as the range of suitable raw materials becomes severely limited. Additionally, reducing the Portland cement content in such concretes is essential. Therefore, a pressing task is the development of modern binders and concretes with reduced Portland cement content based on white-colored mineral components. Materials and methods. White Portland cement without mineral additives (PCB 1-500-D0 Cemix ProWhite, Cemix LLC, Republic of Bashkortostan) was used as the binder; expanded perlite sand (pozzolanic additive), microcalcite (carbonate additive), and anatase (photocatalytic additive), as well as their mixtures, were considered as additives; and polycarboxylate-based plasticizer Melflux 1641 F was employed to improve workability. The main physical and mechanical properties of the binder and the resulting cement stone — including normal consistency, mini-cone spread, and compressive strength — were evaluated according to standard procedures. Workability of the mixtures was assessed using rheological measurements, and the rate of heat release during cement stone hydration was determined calorimetrically. The study also examined the microstructural features of the resulting cement stone. Results. Replacing 40 % of cement with a complex of mineral additives in combination with a plasticizer mitigates the negative impact of fine components on the water demand of the mixture. This modification promotes intensified hydration, enhanced uniformity and density of the cement stone, and a reduction in the specific surface area and total nanopore volume of the cement stone by 39 % and 36 %, respectively. The presence of mineral additives enables the production of a binder achieving a compressive strength of 65.2 MPa after 28 days of standard curing.
Introduction. A significant drawback of composite materials is their tendency to degrade over time, eventually leading to complete failure. Purpose of the study. The objective of this research is to identify the physical principles and develop a theoretical framework to explain this degradation. Wood, as a natural composite, serves as a convenient object for such investigations. Many physical and theoretical aspects of its behavior remain insufficiently understood. In particular, the reduction in mechanical strength at the junctions (with nagels) of wooden components under cyclic variations in temperature and humidity requires further exploration. Methods. This paper presents a physico-mathematical model for assessing the mechanical strength of wood under such environmental influences. The model is based on the Arrhenius equation and current understanding of wood’s cellular structure, whose key components are cellulose filaments (serving as the reinforcing framework) and lignin (the binding matrix). The model assumes that non-steady processes of heat and moisture transfer within the wood, driven by environmental conditions, gradually break the interatomic bonds within lignin compounds. Results. The study derives expressions to estimate the maximum number of wetting-drying cycles that wood can withstand, considering the material’s temperature. It also provides an evaluation of its service life (resource) affected by these cyclic influences. The proposed theory is of universal relevance.
Introduction: Concrete’s self-weight is the primary factor contributing to increased cross-sectional dimensions and dead loads in structures. This disadvantage can be mitigated by using suitable lightweight concrete. Expanded polystyrene concrete (EPSC), which is lighter than conventional concrete, has not yet been implemented in shell structures. The purpose of the study was to analyze and compare the plastic buckling capacities of conventional concrete and EPSC domes, and to develop an analytical formula for determining the plastic buckling capacity of spherical shells made from these materials. The methodology includes an experimental investigation involving cube test specimens to evaluate the properties of EPSC. Based on the test results, the compressive strength, density, and elastic modulus of EPSC were found to be 9.48 MPa, 2074.17 kg/m3, and 11.18 GPa, respectively. Subsequently, linear buckling analysis (LBA) and material non-linear analysis (MNA) were performed using ABAQUS to determine the elastic and plastic buckling resistances of 36 concrete and 36 EPSC spherical shells. Based on the analysis results, an analytical formula was developed to estimate the plastic buckling capacities of both concrete and EPSC shells. Results: The findings reveal that the plastic buckling resistance of EPSC shells is significantly higher than practically applied external uniform pressures. However, the plastic buckling resistance of EPSC shells is lower than that of equivalent concrete shells. Despite this, EPSC shells exhibit lower plastic deformations and displacements compared to their concrete counterparts, indicating sufficient stiffness of such shells and supporting EPSC use in spherical shell construction. The proposed formula can be easily applied to determine the reference plastic buckling capacities of concrete and EPSC spherical shells.
Introduction. The stabilization of clayey soils remains a dynamic and evolving field, with ongoing research exploring new materials, techniques, and sustainable practices to address the challenges posed by problematic soils in construction and infrastructure development. The aim of the study is to investigate the improvement of compaction and mechanical properties of clayey sand by reinforcing its structure with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic fibers of varying sizes and proportions, and/or by applying lime treatment at a minimal dosage. Methods. The different mixtures were evaluated through a series of tests, including Proctor compaction tests, California Bearing Ratio (CBR) tests, and direct shear tests conducted under unconsolidated undrained conditions, to assess their mechanical behavior and strength enhancements. Results indicated that larger PVC fibers yielded the highest CBR values, even surpassing those achieved through lime treatment alone. Furthermore, the CBR index of the soil increased proportionally with the amount of PVC fibers added. It was also observed that the short-term behavior of clayey sand is significantly improved when reinforced with plastic fibers, whether used independently or in combination with lime treatment. This improvement can be attributed to the combined effects of lime, which strengthens the soil by reducing plasticity and increasing cohesion, and the structural contribution of larger plastic fibers, which promote better interlocking and reinforcement. These findings suggest that stabilizing clayey soils using PVC waste fibers and/or minimal lime treatment offers a technically effective and economically viable solution, while also supporting sustainable development goals.
