An analysis of the contributions of lighting and climate to the architecture of Luis Barragán

Abstract

The present work analyses the physical determinants of natural lighting and climate control in Luis Barragan architecture as it was realized in Mexico's west region. Barragan carried out preliminary studies of physical conditions at his projects' proposed sites, and there is evidence that these prior analyses addressed the subject of the regional materials employed in some of his most emblematic buildings; the finishes, colors and combinations of materials used to archieve the very particular effects and sensations his architecture evoked. They also relate to the impact of natural illumination as it passed through the windows and interior geometries he created, which are considered icons of contemporary Mexican architecture. Climate played a most important role in the disposition of interior as well as exterior spaces, because of the Mediterranean architectural influences Barragán drew upon so often in his architectural designs, adapting them correctly to the regional setting. Environmental considerations are also analyzed for the walls, roofs, windows, porticos, patios and other architectural elements wich have given the environmental contributions found in Luis Barrgán's work their characteristic and distinctive stamp. For all of the above, comparative study is made using available technical and physical information; current computer methods permit achievement of the principal objective, wich is to derive a series of conclusions regarding environmental contributions as they may be employed in avant-garde and sustainable building.