Page 118 - JCAU-6-4

Journal of Chinese
Architecture and Urbanism Indoor wind environment in buildings for Qinghai-Tibet plateau of China

forms influence it. The analysis deepens the (iii) Material selection: Materials with excellent insulation
understanding of the impact of wind environments properties are chosen to address the low temperatures
on vernacular architecture, offering valuable guidance of the high-altitude climate. Durable materials, such as
for designing and improving modern local vernacular Pinus huashanensis and Qinghai slate, are chosen for
architecture. It aims to address the issue of blindly their resistance to wind erosion, snow, and ultraviolet
pursuing functionality in modern local architectural (UV) radiation, thereby prolonging the structure’s
developments at the expense of losing regional lifespan. Locally sourced materials are commonly
characteristics. employed.
(iii) Scientific and technological inheritance and transfer: (iv) Orientation and layout: Tibetan vernacular
The Dege Scripture Printing House (DSPH), with a architecture considers the optimal utilization of
history spanning 290 years, embodies the efforts of local sunlight, emphasizing a rational orientation to
architects and contains rich cultural connotations and maximize solar exposure and enhance indoor warmth.
local characteristics in its construction. Promoting the The layout is strategically planned to optimize wind
scientific aspects of these techniques to other regions protection, lighting, and ventilation, improving the
can enhance cultural exchange and knowledge sharing overall comfort of the building.
between regions. In addition, it fosters the inheritance (v) Cultural integration: Tibetan vernacular architecture
and development of vernacular architectural culture. incorporates regional cultural elements into the
These techniques not only effectively improve the decorative elements of the building, which hold both
climate adaptability of buildings but also promote esthetic and symbolic values. These elements reflect
sustainable development in architecture, contributing the local people’s reverence for nature and religion.
to environmentally friendly and energy-efficient The integration of culture not only enhances the visual
development. appeal of the buildings but also aligns them with local
climate conditions and belief systems, making the
2.2. Definition of Tibetan vernacular architecture architecture a natural expression of the local way of life.
Tibetan vernacular architecture is a style of construction By synergistically applying these strategies, Tibetan
that has evolved in response to the regional characteristics vernacular architecture achieves a balance between
and cultural traditions in Tibetan areas. Taking into adapting to local climatic conditions and maintaining
consideration the harsh climatic conditions of the cultural distinctiveness. The combination of these
Qinghai-Tibet plateau, a profound understanding of the strategies creates a construction style that is both resilient
extreme high-altitude environment has led to flexible to the extreme climate of the high-altitude plateau and
and adaptive design approaches. Key features of Tibetan deeply rooted in regional cultural practices.
vernacular architecture include the utilization of stone and
wood structures, flat or angled roof designs, integration of 2.3. DSPH
regional culture, selection of insulating building materials, The DSPH is located in Dege County, as seen in Figure 1,
thoughtful orientation and layout, traditional window within the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in
designs, and considerations for indoor and outdoor Sichuan province, China. It serves as the cultural center
temperatures, human thermal comfort, and ventilation.
(i) Structural design: The structural design of Tibetan
vernacular architecture is crafted to withstand the
strong winds and heavy snowfall prevalent in high-
altitude regions. Buildings feature robust stone and
wood structures, where stone walls provide stability
and bear the weight of heavy snow. Wooden structures
offer flexibility in responding to earthquakes and
natural environmental variations. The thick stone walls
also help retain indoor heat, ensuring temperature
stability.
(ii) Roof design: Tibetan architecture features flat or
angled roofs, designed to reduce snow accumulation
and minimize wind resistance. These designs help
shield against snow and wind, preventing heat loss Figure 1. Aerial photo of the Dege Scripture Printing House and the
and enhancing the building’s climate adaptability. surrounding environment. Source: Photo by Wang (2022)

Volume 6 Issue 4 (2024) 4 https://doi.org/10.36922/jcau.2396