Class
Article
College
Caine College of the Arts
Department
Art and Design Department
Faculty Mentor
Holly Murdock
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
Ancient desert civilizations developed ingenious building techniques to adapt to extreme heat, scarce water, and harsh winds. One of the most effective strategies was the use of thermally massive materials such as adobe, rammed earth, and stone, which absorbed heat during the day and released it at night, creating natural temperature regulation. The Navajo (Diné) hogan, a traditional dwelling of the American Southwest, exemplifies this principle. Hogan walls were often built with packed earth and timber, providing insulation against both the searing daytime heat and the frigid desert nights. Their circular shape also helped distribute heat evenly, while the entrance faced east to welcome the morning sun and align with cultural traditions. Similarly, Middle Eastern civilizations, such as the ancient Mesopotamians and Egyptians, used mudbrick construction to insulate against the sun. Egyptian homes often had thick walls and roof openings to allow hot air to escape, maintaining a cooler indoor environment.
Location
Logan, UT
Start Date
4-9-2025 12:30 PM
End Date
4-9-2025 1:20 PM
Included in
Terra Sol Retreat: Combining Ancient Building Principles and Modern Technology to Design a Sustainable Desert Resort
Logan, UT
Ancient desert civilizations developed ingenious building techniques to adapt to extreme heat, scarce water, and harsh winds. One of the most effective strategies was the use of thermally massive materials such as adobe, rammed earth, and stone, which absorbed heat during the day and released it at night, creating natural temperature regulation. The Navajo (Diné) hogan, a traditional dwelling of the American Southwest, exemplifies this principle. Hogan walls were often built with packed earth and timber, providing insulation against both the searing daytime heat and the frigid desert nights. Their circular shape also helped distribute heat evenly, while the entrance faced east to welcome the morning sun and align with cultural traditions. Similarly, Middle Eastern civilizations, such as the ancient Mesopotamians and Egyptians, used mudbrick construction to insulate against the sun. Egyptian homes often had thick walls and roof openings to allow hot air to escape, maintaining a cooler indoor environment.