Bioclimatic Design in Casablanca (Morocco): Decision Support through Building Performance Simulation

In this paper, bioclimatic design strategies in Moroccan architecture have been analyzed for the city of Casablanca. The aim of this study is to enable architects to re-understand the lessons of tradition, because the way towards bioclimatic architecture should start by understanding vernacular architecture. The first part of the paper presents climate analysis and a set of bioclimatic principles addressing orientation, shading, thermal mass, insulation and natural ventilation as a mean for passive cooling. The second part explores the potential of implementing the Passivhaus Standard in Casablanca. Based on a validated building model, the performance of one of an apartment, satisfying the Passivhaus Standard has been determined by means of building performance simulation. The analysis evaluated different bioclimatic strategies and examined the transfer of the Passivhaus concept to hot warm climate, while ensuring thermal comfort during summer. Results showed that the studied building concept, comprising several bioclimatic design strategies can be transferred, with appropriate adaptations, also to hot climates. Finally the study developed significant recommendation that support architects with principles and strategies for bioclimatic design.