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Subject Area

Architectural Engineering

Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Abstract

This study proposes a life-cycle–oriented, computationally light framework for selecting solar shading devices in hot–arid building façades. While previous research has extensively analysed shading performance using detailed simulations, most studies focus on single systems or materials, rarely comparing traditional, modern, and PVintegrated solutions within a unified life-cycle and operation–maintenance perspective. The research addresses this gap by integrating three shading families—traditional local precedents (e.g. mashrabiya, rawshan), modern fixed and dynamic systems, and hybrid PV-integrated façades—into a comparative decision-support framework tailored to hot–arid climates. Methodologically, the study combines: (1) a structured descriptive–analytical literature review with analytical coding of key attributes (design evolution, materials, control/operation, indoor environmental effects, architectural identity, sustainability, O&M); (2) a simplified screening Life Cycle Assessment using a functional unit of 1 m² of shading over 30 years and focusing on embodied energy/carbon (E_emb), operational energy impact (E_op), and O&M burden; (3) a set of reference façade scenarios defined by orientation, window-to-wall ratio, glare sensitivity, and O&M capability; and (4) a semi-quantitative decision matrix and architect-oriented flowchart implemented in simple spreadsheet form. Results show that no shading category is universally optimal: each occupies a distinct position in the E_emb–E_op–O&M trade-off space, and suitability is strongly scenariodependent. The framework clarifies when vernacular-inspired systems, modern fixed/dynamic devices, or PV-integrated façades are most appropriate, and provides indicative geometric ranges (depth, tilt, spacing) linked to façade conditions and O&M capacity. The study offers a transparent, practice-oriented tool that embeds life-cycle thinking into early façade design decisions in hot–arid climates.

Keywords

Solar shading devices; Hot-arid climates; Life Cycle Assessment (LCA); Operation and maintenance (O&M); Building façade design; PV-integrated façades (BIPV)

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

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