Final case study paper

Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort

Table of Contents

Page

Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort .....1 Table of Contents........................................................................................................................1 Abstract.......................................................................................................................................2 1.0

Introduction ...................................................................................................................3

2.0

Natural Factors affecting Thermal Comfort in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli

Village……………………………………………………………………………………………………...5 2.1

Air Temperature............................................................................................................5

2.2

Air Velocity ...................................................................................................................6

2.3

Air Humidity ..................................................................................................................8

2.4

Illumination Levels ......................................................................................................10

3.0

Types of Sun Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village ....11

3.1

Similarities of Sun Shading Devices ...........................................................................11

3.2

Differences of Sun Shading Devices...........................................................................12

4.0 Achievement of Thermal Comfort and Aesthetic Values ......................................................20 4.1 Belum Rainforest Resort .....................................................................................................20 4.2 Orang Asli Village................................................................................................................26 5.0 Conclusion ..........................................................................................................................29 6.0 References..........................................................................................................................29

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

Abstract The purpose of doing a comparative study on the sun shading devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village is to understand how the shading devices can achieve thermal comfort in the spaces and at the same time have aesthetic values. Most people do not understand or acknowledge the importance on sun shading devices to achieve thermal comfort of the building, let alone the aesthetic values of the sun shading devices (issue). Thus, sun shading devices are thoroughly explored in terms of design strategies and materials of the two different buildings; Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village so there is a better understanding of the sun shading devices by the public (objective). To further enhance the process of exploration of sun shading devices in both buildings, the natural factors are considered on how the thermal comfort are affected in each building and how the design strategies of the buildings conquered the problems of the excessive heat at the same time considering the aesthetic values (methodology).

Therefore, to widen the scope of the research, a comparison between sun shading devices of Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village are done. Although they are separate buildings of different styles, they share the same climate which contributes as the natural factors that affect their respective thermal comfort. Such natural factors are illumination levels, air temperature, air velocity and air humidity. With all these different factors contributing to the thermal comfort, Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village have their unique ways of applying the types sun shading devices onto the buildings functionally and aesthetically. For example, Belum Rainforest Resort uses more of concrete, polycarbonate, timber and vegetation shading as compared to Orang Asli Village that mostly uses bamboo, dried vegetation and timber for shading (findings). Hence, this research will allow users to appreciate the different types of sun shading devices used in two completely different design approach (conclusion). In conclusion, although having the same function, but shading devices can be designed completely different from each other and be applied on a completely different building with a different aesthetical value.

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

1.0 Introduction Set in the midst of tropical paradise, Belum Rainforest Resort located in Pulau Banding is well-known for its design concept of being close to nature at the same time being part of the nature itself. Engulfing itself into the natural elements of Belum Rainforest, the resort managed to create a luxurious yet sustainable modern design that is able to occupy, shade and protect the users inside while preserving as much of the rainforest as possible. In contrast to the modernity of the resort, there are also the Orang Asli Villages that have co-existed with the resort in the rainforest itself. Despite the development of new buildings nearby, the Orang Asli Village have well-maintained and preserved their traditional designs of their villages until today.

To allow their individual designs to be appreciated by all users, both the Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village have accomplished their goal of creating a comfortable yet unique spaces. This is because it is very important for majority users to feel at ease and comfortable while enjoying their respective spatial layout and interior design. One of the ways to let users be comfortable at their spaces is to control the amount of heat and light to acheive thermal comfort in the users.

Thermal comfort is defined as the condition of mind which expresses satisfaction with the thermal environment; also known as the condition of which a person does not feel too hot or too cold. However, thermal environment defined by human is not precise and could not be expressed in terms of degree celcius. This is because thermal comfort is a very personal situation where it depends on a wide variety of criterias and differs from one person to another that are within the same space.

To achieve the thermal comfort explained above, both the buildings uses shading devices on their building to shade sunlight and heat away from the buildings. Hence, they are known as the sun-shading devices. The uses of these devices is a very important aspect of an energyefficient building design strategy like Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village. These devices are also significant in terms of defining the faรงade of the respective buildings to obtain an optimum aesthetic value for the buildings so that the users can also appreciate the elevations of the buildings.

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ Therefore, a research is produced as an objective to discuss about the significance of sun shading devices used in both Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Villages, and to compare the aesthetic values between the sun shading devices. The research is carried out through the data collection of floor plans, sections, elevations and by experiencing the site itself. Thus, this paper will focus on the types of sun-shading devices used in both the resort and traditional village to achieve thermal comfort for the users. In response to the many natural factors affecting the thermal environment, there will be different kinds of shading strategies and solutions to create a space that has achieved thermal comfort. Natural factors such as air temperature, air velocity, air humidity and illumination levels will be identified and discussed in this paper, together with the shading strategies and solutions. With the data collected, an analysis on the significance of shading devices in a building to provide thermal comfort and at the same time aesthetic values to the facades of the building will be complete.

In conclusion, this paper will investigate the comparison and aesthetic values of the types of sun-shading devices used in both Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village by responding to the following research questions: 1. What are the natural factors affecting the thermal comfort in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village?

2. Responding to the natural factors, what are the comparison of the types of sun-shading devices used in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village?

3. How does the respective sun-shading devices in both Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village help in achieving thermal comfort and optimum aesthetic values?

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

2.0 Natural Factors affecting Thermal Comfort in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village There are many natural factors affecting the thermal comfort of both the buildings. Since they belong to the same site, the natural factors in both buildings are the same. However, the factors are narrowed down to air temperature, air velocity, air humidity and illumination levels.

2.1 Air Temperature Air temperature is the temperature of the air that the user is in contact with in the environment or building. It is measured by a dry-bulb thermometer, where the bulb of the thermometer is dry while the temperature is recorded so that it does not come in contact to the moisture content of the air. The temperature recorded is known as dry-bulb temperature (DBT). Another method to measure air temperature is using the wet-bulb thermometer to measure the wet-bulb temperature (WBT) where it has its bulb wrapped in cloth and moistened with distilled water.

Figure 2.1.1 shows the data of average temperature collected thoughout the year 2013.

(Source: Zoover, 2013)

The above figure shows the average temperature in Gerik, the area where Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village are located. As shown above, the average of the maximum air temperature at Gerik is around 31째C yearly. As a rainforest, it is considered as quite a hot climate despite the presence of tall trees and natural shadings. For the minimum air Asian Architecture [ARC 2213/2234]

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ temperature, its average is around 23째C yearly. Thus, during night time, it is considered to be cooling and chilly. As seen from the data collected, it is supported that the temperature difference between day and night is very high and that the temperature gap are consistent over the months in the year. Therefore, the series of temperature collected do not meet the thermal comfort of a human in a building. This is because, the best temperature for optimum human activity is the room temperature that is 25째C. So it can be concluded that the air temperature existing on the site of Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village are one of the factors that affect the thermal comfort of the buildings.

2.2 Air Velocity Air velocity is defined as the velocity of air that a person is in contact with, and is measured in metre per second (m/s). It is known that the faster the air is moving, the greater the exchange of heat between the person and the air. Thus, when there is a higher air velocity, it is possible to reach the thermal comfort of a person, as the internal heat of the person is released to the atmosphere while the cool temperature of the air comes in contact with the person.

Figure 2.2.1 shows the wind force also known as air velocity of the air in Gerik from 3.11.14 to 9.11.14. (Source: Zoover, 2014)

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

Figure 2.2.2 shows the latest air velocity of the air in Gerik from 9.11.14 to 15.11.14.

(Source: Zoover, 2014)

Figure 2.2.3 shows the forecast air velocity of the air in Gerik from 16.11.14 to 22.11.14.

(Source: Zoover, 2014) As seen from the data collected, the average air velocity in Gerik is 3m/s. This is considered as breezy for the users. However, the data collected are only during the recent weeks which is the rainy season of Gerik. Thus, the thermal comfort in Belum Rainforest is achievable with this air velocity. However, during hot season where there is no rain, the air velocity in Gerik is predicted to be 0-1m/s.(Zoover, 2014) Thus, during that season of the year, thermal comfort is not achieved in Gerik as there is no or little heat exchange between the air and the user. Therefore it is concluded that the air velocity is also one of the main natural factors affecting the thermal comfort of Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village.

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

2.3 Air Humidity Air humidity is also known as Relative Humidity (RH). It is defined as the ratio between the actual amount of water vapour in the air and the maximum amount of water vapour that the air can hold at that air temperature, expressed in percentage (%). It is said that the higher the relative humidity, the more difficult it is to lose heat through the evaporation of sweat.

Figure 2.3.1 shows the data of relative humidity of Gerik collected throughout the year 2013.

(Source: Zoover, 2013) As shown in the figure above, the relative humidity of the air in Gerik are averagely quite high throughout the year. Thus, it is averagely more difficult for the users to lose heat through evaporation of sweat. Hence, heat is trapped in the body of the user and could only be released through wind or temperature. Users would feel warm internally and this will cause the thermal comfort to not be achieved.

To further support the data collected, the humidity of Gerik are actually affected by the water content present in most parts of Gerik, such as the rain, river, waterfall and dam. These water elements are the major contribution to the humidity of the whole of Gerik. They are consistent and permanent in Gerik, thus the relative humidity of Gerik would not change. They affect the humidity of Gerik by constantly providing water vapour to the air throughout the day, month and year.

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

Figure 2.3.2 shows the lake near Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village.

(Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

Figure 2.3.3 shows the waterfall in the midst of Belum Rainforest. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

2.4 Illumination Levels Illumination level is measured by an SI unit called Lux (lx) that expresses itself in terms of luminous flux per unit area. It is also equivalent to one lumen per metre square, where it is the measure of the intensity of light perceived by the human eye that hits or passes through a surface of an object. Which concludes that the higher the intensity of light, the higher the illumination level and the greater the heat exposed. Belum Rainforest is very much exposed to direct sunlight during day time, causing the illumination level to be high. It is proven that the illuminance of direct sunlight on a surface is 32,000 to 100,000 lux. Thus, this causes Belum Rainforest to be under direct light which eventually indicates the presence of heat.

Figure 2.4.1 shows the percentage of direct sunlight on Gerik during the rainy season.

(Source: Zoover, 2014)

Figure 2.4.2 shows the hours of direct sunlight illuminating the entire area of Gerik throughout the day. (Source: Zoover, 2014) As seen in the figures above, there is quite a large amount of direct sunlight illuminating the Belum Rainforest. Thus, this concludes that this illumination level is one of the main natural factors affecting the thermal comfort in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village.

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

3.0 Types of Sun Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village Responding to the natural factors, both Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village have their own unique ways of applying shading devices at the same time maintaining their own styles. However, despite their differences in style, they share some similarities together in terms of the types of sun shading devices used.

3.1 Similarities of Sun Shading Devices Roof Overhang

Figure 3.1.1 and 3.1.2 shows the similarities in the roof overhang of Belum Rainforest Resort (Fig 3.1.1) and Orang Asli Village (Fig 3.1.2). (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014) The figures above show the roof overhangs from Phase 2 Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village. As seen in the figures, they share the similarity in their roof overhangs in terms of shape, width and depth. Both their roof overhangs are derived from pitched roofs of the main building, and are supported by a series of columns. Both of the roofs have an overhang of 1.2m and their depths are synchronised with the length of the main building. Also, not disregarding the fact that both the roof overhangs shade very efficiently from the direct sunlight and also shelters well from rain or wind, giving the optimum thermal comfort for the users inside.

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

3.2 Differences of Sun Shading Devices Vertical Shading

Figures 3.2.1 shows that timber strips are used for vertical shading in Phase 1 Belum Rainforest Resort. (Source: Cynthia Lee 2014)

Figure 3.2.2 shows that bamboo strips are used for vertical shading in Orang Asli Village.

(Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ As seen in the figures above, both the Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village uses the vertical shading as part of the sun shading devices. However, both of their vertical shading are very different in terms of material and fixings. As for the Belum Rainforest Resort, recycled timber strips are used for the vertical shading. This is because the resort has a concept of sustainability in its design strategies thus timber strips from the leftover construction waste are cleaned, polished and used as a vertical shading. However, as for the Orang Asli Village, bamboo strips are used for their vertical shading. The bamboo strips are cut down from the surrounding forests nearby to be used as a vertical shading. It is widely used as a shading material in the Orang Asli Village as it is easy to be carried and maintained over the years.

Other than that, the vertical shading also differs by the type of fixings used. For the Belum Rainforest Resort, the bamboo strips are fixed by using steel framings while the Orang Asli Village fixes the vertical bamboo strips by nailing them with horizontal bamboo strips.

Roof

Figure 3.2.3 shows perforated polycarbonate roof used as a shading device in Phase 2 Belum Rainforest Resort. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

Figure 3.2.4 shows dried leaves used to create a roof as a shading device in the Orang Asli Village. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014) Shown in the figures above, Belum Rainforest Resort uses perforated polycarbonate roof as part of its sun shading devices to comply with its modern style. The perforated polycarbonate roof are used along the pedestrian walkways on the rooftop of Phase 1 Belum Rainforest Resort.

The polycarbonate roof are perforated so they allow a diminished illumination level for the comfort of human eye at the same time shading the users from direct sunlight. It also shelters users from rain or falling objects from the tall trees.

Dried leaves are collected from the nearby forests and permanently placed on top of the constructed roof truss of the Orang Asli Village. These dried leaves can shade very efficiently as it eliminates all direct sunlight underneath it, allowing users to be well-shaded and sheltered from rain.

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ Eggcrate Shading

Figure 3.2.5 shows a steel eggcrate shading used in the private villa of Belum Rainforest Resort. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

Figure 3.2.6 shows bamboo eggcrate shading used in the houses of Orang Asli Village.

(Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014) Asian Architecture [ARC 2213/2234]

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ Referring to the figures above, it is shown that both Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village uses eggcrate shading. However, they differ from the types of material used and the design of the eggcrate. For Belum Rainforest Resort, steel is used for the eggcrate shading device, also to comply with its modern style. Other than that, glass is also used in some of the openings in the eggcrate shadings for design purposes and also for ventilation purposes. For Orang Asli Village, bamboo slits are used for the eggcrate shading, and it is fully opened for ventilation purposes.

On the other hand, the eggcrate shading in Belum Rainforest Resort is designed to be horizontal and vertical slits as to synchronise with the other design elements of the resort.

However, the eggcrate shading in Orang Asli Village is designed to be diagonal slits as it it easier for them to nail down the slits to the walls and also for a statement piece of the unique design.

Interior Shading

Figure 3.2.7 shows wooden blinds being used as an interior shading in the cafeteria of Belum Rainforest Resort. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

Figure 3.2.8 shows bamboo slits used as an interior shading for the houses in Orang Asli Village. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014) As shown, retractable blinds are used in Belum Rainforest Resort to allow shading from the sun and sheltering from the rain but at the same time allowing maximum view of the nature beyond it when it is retracted. This makes the blind having two functions at once, killing two birds with one stone.

However, for the Orang Asli Village, a more traditional method is used for interior shading, that is the bamboo slits. As known earlier, bamboo is easily gotten in the nearby forests from the village. The villagers uses the basket technique to tie the bamboo slits together closely, so that it can shade efficiently from the glaring sunlight. Nevertheless, the disadvantage of the bamboo slits are that it does not allow a view beyond the slits, thus the users inside are not able to enjoy the exterior view comfortably from the interior.

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ Vegetative Shading

Figure 3.2.9 shows growing vegetation as a vegetative shading in Phase 2 Belum Rainforest Resort. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

Figure 3.2.10 shows dried vegetation as vegetative shading in Orang Asli Village.

(Source: Cynthia Lee) Asian Architecture [ARC 2213/2234]

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ As seen in the figures, Belum Rainforest Resort uses a growing vegetation on the rooftop as a vegetative shading. This type of shading allow users to feel close to nature at the same time being shaded well from the direct sunlight. However, it does not shelter the user from rain.

However, at the Orang Asli Village, dried vegetation is used compactly as a vegetative shading device. This is a very efficient method of vegetative shading as not only shaded perfectly well from sunlight, it also shelters the users under it from the rain. Also, it allows users to feel closer to the nature as well, because of the scent of forest given out by the dried leaves.

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

4.0 Achievement of Thermal Comfort and Aesthetic Values The shading devices introduced earlier are informative about their individual parts of contribution to shade and shelter well from sunlight and rain. However, they also contribute in achieving thermal comfort for the users of the shading devices while giving a pleasing view for the users by achieving an optimum aesthetic value to the facades of the two different buildings.

4.1 Belum Rainforest Resort Roof Overhang

Diagram 4.1.1 shows the shading of roof overhang from the direct sunlight.

(Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

Figure 4.1.2 shows the aesthetic value of the roof overhang.

(Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ As seen in diagram 4.1.1, the roof overhang in Belum Rainforest Resort functions perfectly well in terms of shading from direct sunlight, allowing thermal comfort for the users in the building.

The roof overhang eliminates the light and heat from the sun, giving a suitable illumination level for the human eye and also giving a comfortable air temperature of less than 27°C inside the building. Thus, thermal comfort is achieved by this shading device. Also, the roof overhang in figure 4.1.2 also gives an aesthetic value to the façade of the building due to its material, size and texture. The overhang is made of laminated timber, giving a glossy overall finish to the façade of the building.

Perforated Polycarbonate Roof

Diagram 4.1.3 shows the shading of perforated polycarbonate roof from direct sunlight.

(Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

Figure 4.1.4 shows the aesthetic value of the perforated polycarbonate roof. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ Due to the fact that it is a perforated polycarbonate roof, it has a major function of giving a good shade and filtering out the glare of direct sunlight. It allow users to walk at the pedestrian walkway comfortably during the day, while the sun is at its peak. The perforation of the roof eliminates half of the sunlight and half of the heat from the sunlight. Thus the illumination level and air temperature is greatly reduced, allowing thermal comfort in the user. This can be seen in diagram 4.1.3. Also, this roof is a modern technology where it also gives a great aesthetic value, as seen in figure 4.1.4.

Timber Strips

Diagram 4.1.5 shows the shading function of the vertical timber strips.

(Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

Figure 4.1.6 shows the aesthetic value of the vertical timber strips.

(Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014) Asian Architecture [ARC 2213/2234]

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ Vertical timber strips in diagram 4.1.5 eliminates the sunlight that went in contact with its surface, giving a great shade for the space behind it. However, because it is designed to have gaps and to be at average human height, there will be some light passing through the little gaps of the timber strips. It gives a good shade thus eliminating at least half of the sunlight and heat, allowing a reduced illumination level and air temperature for the space behind it. Therefore thermal comfort is achieved for the users behind this device. Also, it has achieved an optimum aesthetic value in figure 4.1.6 as it casts on unique shapes and sizes shadows and silhouettes, giving a pleasant view for the users.

Steel Eggcrate

Diagram 4.1.7 shows the shading function of the steel eggcrate.

(Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

Figure 4.1.8 shows the aesthetic value of the steel eggcrate. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014) Asian Architecture [ARC 2213/2234]

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ As seen diagram 4.1.7 the shading given by the steel eggcrate eliminates more than half of the sunlight and eventually half of the heat will be eliminated as well. In addition, the eggcrate shading device also breaks the incoming wind to the interior of the building, only letting a breeze through for natural ventilation. Thus, thermal comfort is achieved as the eggcrate shading device allows a lower air temperature, lower illumination levels and comfortable air velocity, giving a comfortable environment for the user inside. The shading device also gives a great aesthetic value to the faรงade of the building, as shown in figure 4.1.8.

Blinds

Diagram 4.1.9 shows the shading of the blinds. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

Figure 4.1.10 shows the aesthetic value of the blinds. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ As seen in diagram 4.1.9, blinds shade very efficiently from the sunlight, thus giving a lower illumination level, which eventually leads to a lower air temperature inside the building. It also eliminates 75% of the wind, thus giving a comfortable air velocity. As for the aesthetic purposes as seen in figure 4.1.10, it creates a beautiful silhouette and also giving a 50% view of the exterior from the interior, which gives a pleasant view for the users.

Growing Vegetation

Diagram 4.1.11 shows the shading of the growing vegetation. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

Figure 4.1.12 shows the aesthetic value of growing vegetation. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

4.2 Orang Asli Village Roof Overhang

Diagram 4.2.1 shows the shading of rood overhang. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

Figure 4.2.2 shows the aesthetic value of roof overhang. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014) Just like the roof overhang in Belum Rainforest Resort, the roof overhang in diagram 4.2.1 also shades and shelters efficiently. Thus giving a lower air temperature and lower illumination levels. However, the air humidity under the roof overhang is also greatly reduced as the roof is made of dried leaves that absorbs the air moisture content. As for the aesthetic values, it can be seen in figure 4.2.2 that the roof overhang gives a very unique and beautiful faรงade to the house.

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ Bamboo Eggcrate

Diagram 4.2.3 shows the shading of bamboo eggcrate. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

Figure 4.2.4 shows the aesthetic value of the bamboo eggcrate. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014) The bamboo eggcrate in diagram 4.2.3 achieved thermal comfort for the users by eliminating half the amount of light and heat from the sun, and also controlling the air velocity so that it is comfortable for the users. As for the aesthetic values, the bamboo eggcrate has a unique silhouette and also texture, giving a unique taste of traditional houses for the users. The faรงade of the house is also emphasized and focused as the eggcrates were unique as seen in figure 4.2.4.

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________ Bamboo Strips

Diagram 4.2.5 shows the shading of bamboo strips. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014)

Figure 4.2.6 shows the aesthetic value of bamboo strips. (Source: Cynthia Lee, 2014) The bamboo strips in diagram 4.2.5 shows a very efficient shading from the light and heat of the sun, giving a lower illumination level and lower air temperature, leaving the users inside the house to feel cool and comfortable. The humidity of air is also absorbed by the bamboo slits as they were naturally dry. Thus thermal comfort is achieved. As for the aesthetic value, it can be seen that it is achieved by giving an interesting faรงade to the house, leaving a statement so that the house is outstanding and unique as compared to others.

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Comparison Study of Types of Sun-Shading Devices in Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village in Achieving Aesthetic Values Responding to the Factors Affecting Thermal Comfort___________________

5.0 Conclusion In conclusion, Belum Rainforest Resort and Orang Asli Village have their own unique style of shading their buildings with different kinds of sun shading devices. Due to this, thermal comfort has all been achieved as the sun shading devices were extremely successful in accomplishing their respective functions. Therefore, although different in types and sizes, all shading devices are equally important to the daily needs of the user as they subconsciously shade and shelter the users 24 hours a day and should be appreciated and acknowledged by everyone.

6.0 References 1. Veronica I. Soebarto and Siti Handjarinto (1998). Thermal Comfort Study in a Naturally Ventilated Residential Building in a Tropical Hot-Humid Climate Region. Depok 16424, Indonesia.

University of Indonesia.

This book discusses about the thermal comfort study in a naturally ventilated residential building located in a tropical hot-humid climate region. The specific objective of this study is to investigate whether thermal comfort in this house can be achieved through passive systems only.

2. Don Prowler, FAIA (2008). Sun Control and Shading Devices. Washington, DC. Donald Prowler and Associates.

This book explains the use of sun control and shading devices an important aspect of many energy-efficient building design strategies. Several sun shading devices are introduced and their functions were elaborated.

3. Scientific Associates (1997). Thermal Comfort. South Africa. Innova AirTech Instruments A/S. This book is an introduction to the topic thermal comfort. It explains procedures to evaluate the thermal environment and methods applied for its measurement.

4. Evans, M. (1980). Housing, Climate and Comfort. London. Architectural Press.

This book explains about how comfort can be achieved by facing the challenges given by the house design and climatic factors.

5. Weather Forecast Hotel Belum Rainforest Resort. (November 2014). Retrieved from: http://www.zoover.co.uk/malaysia/malaysia/gerik/belum-rainforest-resort/hotel/weather This site gives a detailed weather information about Gerik, area where Belum Rainforest is located.

Asian Architecture [ARC 2213/2234]

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