Assessing thermal comfort in vernacular mosques with natural ventilation: A case study of Masjid Tuha Indrapuri

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G. Amira, A. Munir, Safwan

2025 IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science Vol. 1510 Issue 1 Conference paper Cited by 0 SDG 16 Quartile

Abstract

This study examines thermal comfort in a historic mosque, focusing on the natural ventilation system integral to its vernacular architecture. The research object, Masjid Tuha Indrapuri in Indrapuri District, Aceh Besar Regency, is a heritage mosque still in active use, notable for its tiered roof structure, which creates a layered ventilation system employing the stack effect. This natural ventilation mechanism facilitates air circulation, making it a potential solution for maintaining thermal comfort. The study aims to assess thermal conditions during daily prayers based on both physical environmental parameters and user perceptions. A quantitative approach was used, combining field observations, direct measurements of the building's microclimate, and surveys of user responses to thermal conditions during prayer times. Questionnaires were distributed to capture user perceptions of thermal comfort. The data from observations, measurements, and questionnaires were integrated to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the building's thermal performance and its unique ventilation system. The results were compared with the Indonesian National Standard (SNI 03-6572-2001) to assess the effectiveness of the stack effect for maintaining thermal comfort. The findings indicate that thermal comfort was not fully achieved during some time, particularly afternoon and late afternoon, when indoor temperatures were higher. Nevertheless, users reported that the conditions were adequate for prayer activities. This evaluation highlights the potential of the stack effect ventilation system as a natural solution for thermal comfort in contemporary mosque designs. © Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd.

Affiliations

Master of Architecture Study Program, Syiah Kuala University, Banda Aceh, Indonesia; Department of Architecture and Planning, Syiah Kuala University, Banda Aceh, Indonesia

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