Lessons on Bioclimatic Design for Tropical Areas in Shodan House, by Le Corbusier

Abstract

This paper aims to publicize the environmental control techniques and energy efficiency applied by the master of modern movement, Le Corbusier, in Shodan House. It also seeks to demonstrate, through climate analysis and contemporary simulation tools, that Le Corbusier applied, consciously and in the mid twentieth century, environmental control techniques that make the abovementioned construction an emblematic example of bioclimatic architecture for the humid tropical climate of India. In the current context of energy and environmental crisis, when the energy efficiency of the buildings becomes an increasingly demanded priority through regulatory frameworks and sustainable building certification seals around the world, it is worth remembering the bioclimatic architecture lessons by Le Corbusier. In this case, the techniques applied in the humid tropical climate of India can be used in Colombia in warm climate areas, with a few minor changes and additional control techniques. These techniques can also be used in predominantly dry tropical zones of the country, such as those from the Orinoquia and the savannah from the Caribbean region.