Re-interpretation of traditional architecture for visual comfort

In the history of stone traditional architecture there are constructive solutions which, with the same climatic conditions and materials used, produce a different final result. This result, which apparently is only a formal and figurative one, actually involves different physical–technical implications that inevitably determine, for these solutions, a different system of actions/reactions due to the change of stress of the physical environment they interact with. Starting from a constructive approach, linked to the Mediterranean culture and, in particular, to a specific declination represented by architecture from the Islamic architectural culture, the aim of the research work is to estimate how the logical–formal and physical operation of the walls of the traditional architecture, interacting with the outdoors, can be used and re-interpreted in order to assure a condition of visual comfort into internal spaces. Therefore, the attempt is that of a re-interpretation in a contemporary key, i.e. the possibility to use these solutions with the purpose of pointing out a methodological procedure which, even if referring to particular special configurations and specific visual duty in its experimental application, can be used in all types of environments; a methodology which contemplates and appraises all of the dynamics and problems linked to the sight and comfort of the average user. 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.