:: International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Applied Sciences & Technologies
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ISSN 2228-9860
eISSN 1906-9642
CODEN: ITJEA8
FEATURE PEER-REVIEWED ARTICLE
Vol.17(2) (2026) |
The Impact of Ornamental Details of Ancient Iraqi Architecture on Building Sustainability
Ashraf Ibraheem Mahmood, and Bisam Ehessan Al-Hafiz (Architectural Engineering Department, College of Engineering, University of Mosul, Mosul, IRAQ).
Discipline: Multidisciplinary (Architectural Engineering (Sustainable Architecture), Heritage Study, Energy Conservation).
doi: 10.14456/ITJEMAST.2026.14
Keywords: SOLENE-microclimate; Sumer; Babylon; Assyria; Ancient Iraqi Architecture (AIA); Sustainable architecture; Exterior surface temperature; City of Mosul; Surface temperature reduction; Building heat simulation; Passive cooling; Building energy performance.
AbstractThis study involves the sustainability potential of Ancient Iraqi Architecture (AIA) by assessing the thermal impact of its ornamental elements. The aim is to find whether architectural details can reduce building surface temperatures and thus improve energy efficiency. The interested buildings are from the Sumerian, Babylonian, and Assyrian periods. Using a virtual building model (12 x 12 x 5 m), five types of traditional ornamental features were simulated with SOLENE-microclimate software. The case study was conducted for the city of Mosul, with simulations focused on 13 June, representing peak summer conditions. Results show that specific elements - particularly slim vertical lengthy hollows and vertical half-circular hollows - achieved a surface temperature reduction of up to 4°C compared to plain facades. These details function via self-shading and passive cooling. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable architecture. It shows that heritage elements can inform modern design strategies in hot-arid climates. The findings show the value of reviving vernacular details not only for cultural preservation, but also for improving energy performance.Paper ID: 17A2G
Cite this article:
Mahmood, A.I. and Al-Hafiz, B.E. (2026). The Impact of Ornamental Details of Ancient Iraqi Architecture on Building Sustainability. International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Applied Sciences & Technologies, 17(2), 17A2G, 1-11. http://doi.org/10.14456/ITJEMAST.2026.14
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