What We Can Learn from Vernacular House and COVID-19 Infection? A Review of Mbaru Niang, Flores, Indonesia

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that the current ventilation design, especially in residential buildings, may not provide healthy air exchange. Since current buildings in tropical climate only focused on cooling, its have become sites of rapid COVID-19 transmission. In order to avoid indoor SARS-Cov-2 transmission, some studies recommended an increase in air supply with a higher air exchange rate and to reduce the usage of the air conditioner. Flores has been designated one of the top Indonesian tourism destinations. However, access to transportation is still tricky. Analysis of local materials, culture, and weather can reduce the building cost and preserved local value to become the area's identity. Vernacular housing in Indonesia has adapted well to climatic conditions in different locations by using natural ventilation that ensures thermal comfort. We propose a ventilation design with natural ventilation from Mbaru Niang's traditional house. It was found that raised floor, verandah, and sun shading can reduce the hot temperature from solar radiation and hot wind from the sea breeze. This modern building concept can become a practical, healthy, and environmentally friendly solution for building in Flores, Indonesia. Introduction