KWAME NKRUMAH UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND

TECHNOLOGY. COLLEGE OF ART AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURE

LIVING WITH HEAT: EXPLORING THE INTEGRATION OF

TRADITIONAL BUILDING PRACTICES AND MODERN DESIGN

FOR CLIMATE-RESPONSIVE HOUSING IN NAVRONGO

By.

AKIDAM AURELIA WEBAKURA

A Dissertation submitted to the Department of Architecture, Kwame

Nkrumah

University of Science and Technology in partial fulfilment of the

requirements for the award of a Bachelor of Science degree in architecture.

BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE
 DECLARATION

I hereby declare that this dissertation submission is my own work toward the

Bachelor of Science Degree in Architecture and that, to the best of my knowledge,

contains no material previously published by another person or material which has

been accepted for the award of any other degree of the university, except where due

acknowledgement has been made in the text.

[Akidam Aurelia Webakura] (1446022) ………………. ……………

(Student). Signature. Date.

Certified by: Dr. [Link] Abrokwa Gyimah, ………………

……………

(Supervisor). Signature.

Date.

Certified by: [Rev. (Dr.) Victor Kwesi Quagraine] ………………

……………

(Head of Department). Signature. Date.

 ABSTRACT
There is an urgent need for climate-responsive housing solutions because rising temperatures in
Northern Ghana, especially in Navrongo in the Upper East Region, have made residential buildings
more uncomfortable. Although they historically offered efficient passive cooling, traditional building
techniques like earthen walls, courtyard designs, and shaded verandas are being replaced more and
more by contemporary materials like cement blocks and corrugated metal sheets. Despite being a
sign of advancement, these contemporary methods frequently make indoor temperatures worse and
increase reliance on mechanical cooling systems.
To increase thermal comfort and sustainability in hot, dry climates, this dissertation explores the
integration of traditional techniques with contemporary design. Field surveys, thermal performance
measurements, stakeholder interviews, and digital simulations were all incorporated into the mixed-
methods approach. Vernacular methods routinely reduce heat stress better than modern housing,
according to the results, although their continued use is constrained by cultural and financial
considerations.
Building on these discoveries, the research creates hybrid design prototypes that show workable
routes to sustainable housing by fusing traditional knowledge with modern building techniques. The
potential of hybrid approaches to lessen dependency on active cooling, maintain cultural identity,
and aid Ghana's sustainable development goals is highlighted in the dissertation's conclusion. By
providing evidence-based tactics and policy recommendations for architects, planners, and
policymakers operating in the Upper East Region and other hot, arid regions of West Africa, it
advances the conversation about architecture.

KEYWORDS: Upper East Region, Ghana, Vernacular architecture, climate-responsive housing,

thermal comfort, hybrid design, and sustainable architecture
TURN IT IN REPORT
 DEDICATION
I dedicate this study to my parents, Charity Abugum and Mr. Akidam Augustine.
Additionally, I dedicate this research to my supervisor, Dr. Engr. Kwabena Abrokwa Gyimah, and
his teaching assistant.
Excellent work and may God reward them for their sincere mentoring.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1
1.0 GENERAL INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................... 8

1.1 CHAPTER OVERVIEW ................................................................................................................... 8

1.2 BACKGROUND OF STUDY ........................................................................................................... 8

1.3 PROBLEM STATEMENT ................................................................................................................ 9

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS ................................................................................................................ 9

1.5 AIM OF STUDY ............................................................................................................................. 10

1.6 OBJECTIVES OF STUDY .............................................................................................................. 10

1.7 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY ................................................................................................. 10

1.8 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY ..................................................................................................... 11

1.8.1 Field survey and observations: ................................................................................................. 11

1.8.2 Interviews and Focus Groups: .................................................................................................. 11

1.8.3 Comparative Analysis: .............................................................................................................. 11

1.8.4 Design Proposals ........................................................................................................................ 11

1.8.5 Assessment And Analysis: ......................................................................................................... 11

1.9 RESEARCH ORGANIZATION AND FRAMEWORK ................................................................. 11

1.10 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY ..................................................................................................... 12

1.11 JUSTIFICATION OF STUDY ........................................................................................................ 12

1.12 CHAPTER SUMMARY .................................................................................................................. 13

 CHAPTER 1

1.0 GENERAL INTRODUCTION

1.1 CHAPTER OVERVIEW
By investigating how traditional building techniques can be combined with contemporary design to
create climate-responsive housing, this study investigates the thermal discomfort in residential
buildings in Navrongo, in Ghana's Upper East Region. This chapter introduces the study by outlining
the problem statement, aim, objectives, and research questions as well as providing the research
background. Additionally, it explains the theoretical framework that underpins the research,
highlights the study's significance, justification, and scope, and ends with a dissertation structure
outline.

1.2 BACKGROUND OF STUDY

Since architecture has a direct impact on energy use, thermal comfort, and climate resilience, the
building industry is essential to sustainable development. Buildings use about 30% of the world's
energy, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA, 2022), with a significant amount of that
energy coming from heating and cooling requirements. The design of thermally efficient housing is
particularly important in hot-dry climates like Ghana's Upper East Region, where daytime highs
regularly surpass 40°C, leading to extreme heat stress and a greater need for mechanical cooling
systems (Asante & Ameko, 2021).
In past centuries, Northern Ghana's traditional building methods provided workable passive design
answers to these climate-related problems. Compact courtyard designs, shaded verandas, and thick
earthen walls were among the features that maximized natural ventilation and thermal mass in order
to reduce indoor heat absorption (Agrawal & Patel, 2019). Research on vernacular architecture
highlights that these methods reflect centuries of cultural knowledge and climate adaptation (Oliver,
2006; Fathy, 1986).
However, concrete, corrugated metal sheets, cement blocks, and plastic ceilings are now widely used
due to modernization and fast urbanization. Although these materials are frequently thought of as
cost-effective, contemporary, and long-lasting, they are not well adapted to the hot, dry climate. It
has been demonstrated that corrugated roofing and plastic ceiling panels, in particular, trap and
radiate heat, resulting in extremely uncomfortable indoor spaces and a greater need for fans and air
conditioners (Koranteng, 2010; Djaba et al., 2020).
Recent research emphasizes the potential for hybrid design solutions that combine conventional
methods with modern technologies. For example, bioclimatic design theory recommends that
building shape, materiality, and orientation be matched with climatic conditions to reduce energy
consumption (Givoni, 1998; Szokolay, 2014). Similarly, new case studies in West Africa
demonstrate how integrating vernacular principles with new building materials can enhance thermal
comfort while preserving cultural identity (Mbaye & Keita, 2019). Despite these insights, there is
still a dearth of systematic research on the combination of traditional and modern methods in Ghana's
hot, arid regions, particularly in Navrongo.

1.3 PROBLEM STATEMENT

Ghana's fast urbanization has led to a rise in the use of modern building materials in residential buildings,
such as wrong orientation, cement blocks, corrugated metal sheets, and plastic ceilings (Koranteng, 2010).
Due to the materials' propensity to retain and trap heat, residents of Navrongo, Upper East Region, are now
forced to rely on mechanical cooling equipment, exacerbating thermal discomfort. The situation is made
worse by frequent issues with the electricity supply, which leave homes vulnerable during times of extreme
heat (Djaba et al., 2020).
According to Agrawal and Patel (2019), traditional housing strategies such as earthen walls, shaded verandas,
and courtyard layouts historically offered passive cooling and resilience to the hot, dry climate. However, due
to pressures from modernization, a lack of awareness, and the belief that vernacular housing is out of date,
these practices are being abandoned more frequently. The issue is made worse by a lack of regulations
supporting climate-adaptive building, which encourages the proliferation of thermally inefficient structures
(Mbaye & Keita, 2019).
Without concerted efforts to assess and integrate indigenous practices with contemporary housing design,
Navrongo residents will continue to face rising heat stress, rising energy costs, and cultural loss. This study
intends to evaluate the thermal performance of Navrongo's modern and traditional housing in order to increase
comfort, reduce energy consumption, and preserve cultural identity. By addressing these gaps, the study
advances Ghana's broader sustainability and climate resilience goals.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

The following research questions will direct the investigation of the integration of contemporary and
traditional building techniques for climate-responsive housing in Navrongo. These questions seek to identify
the drawbacks of modern housing, evaluate the effectiveness of vernacular strategies, and recommend hybrid
design strategies:
1. Which Navrongo traditional building techniques best promote thermal comfort and
heat?
2. What are the reasons behind the decline in these practices and what obstacles stand in
their way?
3. How do contemporary home designs and materials stack up thermally against
 conventional techniques?
4. How can contemporary and traditional methods be combined to produce sustainable
housing?
5. What legislative and design initiatives are required to support climate-responsive
housing?

1.5 AIM OF STUDY

to investigate how contemporary design techniques can be combined with traditional building methods to
produce climate-responsive housing options in Navrongo, Ghana.

1.6 OBJECTIVES OF STUDY

1. To compile and evaluate Navrongo traditional building techniques that improve
thermal comfort.
2. To assess the limitations and thermal performance of contemporary home designs
3. Examining the differences in heat stress between conventional and contemporary
building materials and designs.
4. To create hybrid design approaches that combine contemporary building techniques
with traditional knowledge.
5. To suggest design principles and policies for climate-responsive, sustainable housing in
the Upper East Region.

1.7 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

Addressing the growing issue of thermal discomfort and unsustainable housing practices in Navrongo and the
larger Upper East Region is the significance of this study. By looking at both conventional and contemporary
housing methods, the study offers data that can help planners, architects, and builders create climate-
responsive designs that are suitable for hot, dry climates.
In Sub-Saharan Africa, where climate-responsive housing is still poorly understood, the findings will advance
scholarly understanding of vernacular architecture, thermal comfort, and hybrid design methodologies.
Practically speaking, the study will be a resource for legislators, offering suggestions that can guide housing
policies and building codes targeted at lowering energy consumption and enhancing living standards.
The study highlights the value of indigenous knowledge and its potential for local adaptation in modern
architecture. By supporting designs that integrate cultural identity with sustainable performance, the study not
only addresses pressing climate and energy issues but also promotes heritage preservation. Ultimately, by
showing how hybrid housing solutions can lessen dependency on mechanical cooling, reduce energy costs,
and improve resilience in hot-dry regions, the research findings support Ghana's larger climate action and
sustainable development goals.

1.8 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

To obtain a thorough grasp of thermal comfort in residential buildings, this study will use a mixed-methods
research design that combines qualitative and quantitative techniques. This method makes it possible to
measure indoor conditions scientifically and comprehend how social and cultural factors affect Navrongo
housing design.

1.8.1 Field survey and observations:

o Materials, layouts, and spatial organization will be highlighted in the documentation of
both traditional and contemporary housing types.
1.8.2 Interviews and Focus Groups:
o Homeowners, builders, and regional artisans will be interviewed to learn about their
construction methods, comfort levels, and material selection criteria. Collaborative
viewpoints on housing and climate adaptation will be gathered through focus groups
with local officials and community members.
1.8.3 Comparative Analysis:
o Examine how the temperatures inside and outside of traditional and modern homes
differ.
o Model integrated design solutions using simulation software (such as Ecotect Analysis,
DesignBuilder, or EnergyPlus).
1.8.4 Design Proposals
o Based on findings, prototype housing models will be developed that merge traditional
building principles with modern construction techniques to demonstrate practical
hybrid design solutions for hot-dry climates.
1.8.5 Assessment And Analysis:
1. Thematic analysis of interview and observational data.
2. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis using analytical software like Statistical
Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS).

1.9 RESEARCH ORGANIZATION AND FRAMEWORK

This research is divided into five parts{chapters) An overview of the research topic is provided in
Chapter One. The conceptual framework of the study, which summarizes numerous publications on
the research topic, is presented in Chapter Two. The research methodology is covered in greater
detail in Chapter Three. In Chapter Four, the results are presented with the help of illustrations when
necessary. Finally, Chapter Five, the last chapter, offers a summary of the research paper along with
its conclusions and suggestions.
The entire framework is designed to be flexible and adaptive, with a focus on real-world application
and actionable insights.

1.10 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

1. Because different regions have different climates, building materials, and housing
layouts, the research findings may be unique to Navrongo. This restricts how broadly
the findings can be applied to other regions of Ghana.
2. Energy simulation tools are inherently limited by predetermined algorithms and
assumptions that might not precisely match real-world situations.
3. Assumptions and preset algorithms that might not precisely match real-world situations
are two examples of the inherent limitations of energy simulation tools.

1.11 JUSTIFICATION OF STUDY

Ghana's need for climate-responsive housing has grown more urgent as global energy demands and
temperatures continue to rise. According to the International Energy Agency, buildings use about 30% of
global energy, with a significant portion going toward ventilation and cooling (IEA, 2022). In Ghana's Upper
East Region, particularly in Navrongo, daytime highs of over 40°C are frequent, making mechanical cooling
devices an essential necessity for residents. Modern materials such as cement blocks, corrugated metal sheets,
and plastic ceilings often trap heat, worsening interior thermal conditions and increasing energy costs
(Koranteng, 2010; Djaba & Ephraim, 2020).
Ghana's need for climate-responsive housing has increased as global energy demands and temperatures
continue to rise. According to the International Energy Agency, buildings use about 30% of the world's
energy, with a large portion going toward ventilation and cooling (IEA, 2022). In Ghana's Upper East Region,
particularly in Navrongo, daytime highs of over 40°C are common, forcing residents to rely heavily on
mechanical cooling equipment. Modern materials such as plastic ceilings, cement blocks, and corrugated
metal sheets often trap heat, worsening interior thermal conditions and increasing energy costs (Koranteng,
2010; Djaba & Ephraim, 2020).
On the other hand, traditional building methods like courtyard designs, shaded verandas, and thick earthen
walls have long offered the hot, dry climate sustainable comfort and natural cooling (Fathy, 1986; Agrawal &
Patel, 2019). But because of modernization, a lack of awareness, and a lack of laws supporting indigenous
architecture, these practices are being replaced (Mensah & Adinyira, 2016). Therefore, the need to close the
gap between traditional and modern building practices justifies this study. The research intends to lessen
energy dependency, enhance indoor comfort, and support Ghana's commitment to sustainable and climate-
responsive architecture within the framework of global energy efficiency goals by evaluating the thermal
performance of both housing types and creating hybrid design strategies.

1.12 CHAPTER SUMMARY

By offering a research background, problem statement, research aims, questions, and objectives justifications,
as well as an outline of the research methodology employed and the study's scope, Chapter One provides
broad information on the study's topic.
 CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW
CHAPTER OVERVIEW
To enhance thermal comfort in hot, arid areas like Navrongo, this chapter examines the body of
research on climate-responsive housing and looks at how traditional building techniques can be
incorporated with contemporary design. It looks at theories about passive design, building materials,
vernacular architecture, and thermal comfort. The impact of sustainable technologies and digital
tools on Ghanaian architects' responses to climate change is also discussed. The goal is to provide a
theoretical framework for comprehending how conventional knowledge and contemporary creativity
can combine to produce future housing that is more sustainable.

UNDERSTANDING THERMAL COMFORT IN HOT-DRY CLIMATE

The state in which a person is content with the temperature and airflow in their surroundings is
known as thermal comfort (Fanger, 1970). Air temperature, humidity, air movement, radiation, and
personal preferences like attire and activity level are all factors that affect thermal comfort.
Buildings' ability to control heat gain and encourage ventilation is crucial for preserving thermal
comfort in hot, dry areas like Navrongo, where daytime highs can reach over 35°C and rainfall is
scarce (Givoni, 1998).
Many modern homes in northern Ghana are thermally uncomfortable due to the use of heat-
absorbing materials like cement blocks and corrugated metal roofs (Koranteng, 2010). Because of
the heat-trapping properties of these materials, interior temperatures are higher than outside
temperatures. In contrast, traditional earthen dwellings maintain cooler internal temperatures
through thick walls, small openings, and shaded courtyards. The difference highlights the critical
role of design and material selection in achieving comfort in extreme climates.

VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE AND TRADITIONAL BUILDING PRACTICES

According to Oliver (2006), vernacular architecture is a body of knowledge that has changed over
many years in response to regional cultural and environmental factors. Traditional homes in Northern
Ghana are often circular compounds with thatched roofs, constructed from mud or laterite, and are
made to withstand the hot, dry climate. While the tiny apertures restrict solar gain and dust
infiltration, their substantial earthen walls serve as thermal buffers, absorbing heat during the day and
releasing it at night (Fathy, 1986).
According to Addo (2016), these traditional designs reflect patterns of communal life and local
identity and are both socially and environmentally meaningful. For example, the circular design
encourages family time and communal shade, and the conical roofs effectively drain rainwater and
reduce heat accumulation.
However, these forms have been progressively displaced by urbanization and modernization, and
younger generations now associate traditional materials with being outmoded and impoverished
(Mensah & Adinyira, 2016). This puts a lot of this important climate-responsive knowledge at risk of
disappearing.

MODERN CONSTRUCTION AND THERMAL CHALLENGES IN GHANA

Concrete blocks, corrugated iron roofing, and plastic ceilings are common features of Ghanaian
modern housing. Despite being strong and easy to assemble, these materials don't hold up well in
strong sunlight (Koranteng, 2010). Due to excessive heat gain caused by their high thermal
conductivity, residents must turn to fans and air conditioning for relief (Addo, 2019).

This dependence is unsustainable in Navrongo, where the cost and reliability of the electricity supply
can be problematic. Large glass windows, open-plan layouts, and flat roofs are examples of modern
aesthetics that frequently disregard climate realities, resulting in buildings that are less comfortable
and use more energy. The failure to adapt modern design principles to local environmental contexts
is the problem, according to Agyekum et al. (2020), not modernity per se.

HYBRID DESIGN: INTEGRATING TRADITION AND MODERNITY

Hybrid design combines the strengths of traditional architecture with the innovation of modern
technology to create climate-appropriate housing (Mbaye & Keita, 2019). It seeks to preserve
cultural identity while meeting contemporary needs for comfort, durability, and aesthetics. In the
context of Navrongo, hybrid approaches could include using earthen materials with improved
finishes, introducing insulated roofing systems, and orienting buildings for cross-ventilation.
Ameko and Asante (2021) argue that integrating vernacular wisdom with digital modeling tools
offers a realistic pathway toward sustainable housing in Ghana. Hybrid housing promotes resilience
to heat, reduces energy demand, and maintains a sense of place rooted in cultural tradition.

PASSIVE DESIGN PRINCIPLES FOR HOT-DRY CLIMATE

Sunlight, wind, and thermal mass are examples of natural energy flows that passive design uses to
control indoor temperatures. According to Szokolay (2014), thermal comfort can be attained
passively without the need for mechanical assistance. Among the fundamental ideas are:
• In order to reduce direct solar exposure on longer façades, buildings should be oriented east-
west (Aini & Nadia, 2019).
• Designing courtyards, openings, and shady verandas to encourage airflow is known as natural
ventilation.
• Thermal Mass: Stabilizing temperature variations with materials such as laterite or adobe
(Abeywardhana, 2024).
• Using trees, canopies, and overhangs to block direct sunlight is known as shading and
vegetation.
• Daylighting: Using controlled openings to maximize natural light in order to save energy
(Dekay & Brown, 2022).
These ideas are ingrained in Ghanaian traditional architecture and can be modified for use in
contemporary settings with the aid of new materials and simulation tools.

MATERIAL SELECTION AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY

The selection of materials is essential for controlling heat transfer and guaranteeing comfort.
While modern materials are long-lasting but frequently ineffective in hot climates, traditional
materials like mud and thatch offer superior thermal insulation but need maintenance (Agyekum
et al., 2020). Compressed earth blocks (CEBs) and stabilized laterite, which combine the
strength of cement with the insulating properties of conventional materials, have been the subject
of recent research (Garba, 2020).
Roofing materials are also very important. Despite being widely used, metal sheets transfer heat
quickly; instead, insulated panels ,thatch roof or green roofs greatly lower indoor temperatures
(Vasilenkoi, 2018). Reliance on grid electricity can be further decreased by combining these
materials with renewable energy sources, such as solar panels (Gong & You, 2015).

ENERGY SIMAULATION AND MODERN TECHNOLOGY

Buildings consume almost one-third of the world's energy, according to the International Energy
Agency (IEA, 2022), and cooling loads are increasing in developing nations. In order to combat this,
architects are increasingly simulating thermal performance prior to construction using programs like
DesignBuilder, EnergyPlus, and Ecotect Analysis. In order to identify energy-efficient solutions,
these tools enable designers to experiment with various forms, materials, and orientations (Ameko &
Asante, 2021).
But as Koranteng (2010) points out, thermal inefficiency cannot be resolved solely by technology.
Combining digital tools with local knowledge—knowing how traditional compounds function in
actual environments and incorporating that knowledge into modern designs—leads to effective
solutions.

CASE STUDIES AND REGIONAL EXAMPLES

• Hassan Fathy (1986) showed how conventional mud-brick construction in Egypt could
produce cooler interiors without the need for mechanical systems. Mbaye and Keita (2019)
reported hybrid housing in Senegal that combined contemporary roofing with clay walls,
resulting in a 30% reduction in energy use.
• To reduce heat gain and electricity consumption, S. Tetteh + Associates' Nearly Zero-Energy
Building (nZEB) in Accra, Ghana, integrates solar energy, shading, and compact design.
Comparing laterite walls with ventilated roofs to traditional homes, experimental projects in
Tamale and Bolgatanga have shown that they can reduce indoor temperatures by 3 to 5°C
(Agyekum et al., 2020).
These illustrations show how comfort and sustainability can be achieved in hot, arid climates by
fusing traditional knowledge with contemporary technology.

RESEARCH GAPS
Few studies have explicitly examined hybrid housing in Northern Ghana, even though thermal
comfort and sustainable architecture have been the subject of numerous investigations. Few studies
look at how modern urban housing and traditional compounds can work well together; most studies
look at either one separately. Furthermore, there is a dearth of empirical data comparing the hybrid
models' thermal performance in Navrongo's actual climate. The need for this study, which evaluates
and suggests climate-responsive housing designs that incorporate both conventional and
contemporary methods, is justified by this gap.

SUMMARY
The pertinent literature on thermal comfort, climate-responsive design, and the fusion of
conventional and contemporary housing practices has been reviewed in this chapter. It demonstrates
how important passive design concepts that are frequently ignored in contemporary construction are
already present in traditional Ghanaian architecture. It is feasible to create housing in Navrongo that
is cool, sustainable, and culturally significant by reinterpreting these concepts using hybrid design
and new technologies. The following chapter, which covers the research techniques used to examine
housing performance and design responses in the study area, is built upon the insights from this
review.