Faculty Publications

 

Recent Submissions

  • Color and ornamentation as an expression of social status and its impact on the lebanese architectural development 
    Melki, Habib (USEK Press, 2009)
    Color and ornamentation are remarkable elements present trough diverse forms in the Lebanese architecture. Throughout history, Lebanon has been the crossroad of a variety of cultures and civilizations. Diverse currents coming from the East and the West including the Canaanites, the Phoenicians, the Greek, the Roman, the Franks, the Mamluk, the Ottoman rule and the French mandate carried new forms. Many concepts, new technologies and socio-cultural aspects merged with the local tradition to unfold into what we currently know as Lebanese architecture. The rich historic background contributed to ...
  • Development of "openings" and their ornamentation in relation to environmental aspects of lebanese traditional architecture between the 18th and 20th centuries 
    Melki, Habib (USEK, 2014-09)
    This evolution of the traditional Lebanese houses has seemed to come to an end not only with the improper and excessive use of concrete, but mainly with the shift from the equilibrium with the environment. Although, these vernacular structures are disappearing, intelligent methods of construction must be acknowledged by tracing their evolution and bringing out their natural environmental character. Man's drive for comfort is achieved through dependenncy on non-renewable energy technologies. The advantages of energy conservation in buildings are financial, social and ecological. The purpose of ...
  • Windows as environmental modifiers in Lebanese vernacular architecture 
    Melki, Habib (Earthscan Publications, 2006)
    ABSTRACT: Windows in Lebanese vernacular buildings were sized and placed proportionally in order to allow the required amount of light and air circulation for comfort. The aim of this study is to explore the evolution of the window in Lebanese vernacular architecture with respect to typology, functions, environmental features, methodologies in construction and cultural features. It will include a comparative analysis of different typologies in respect to ventilation, daylighting, heat transfer, acoustic barriers, etc.
  • Preservation of existing buildings in south Lebanon - energy conservation : housing development & culture architectural heritage & conservation 
    Melki, Habib; Yeretzian, Aram (NDU Press, 2002)
    “The first law of thermodynamics says that the total quantity of energy in the universe remains constant. This is the principle of the conservation of energy. The second law of thermodynamics, which is controlled by the concept of entropy, states that the quality of this energy is degraded irreversibly. It is the principle of the degradation of energy.” (Rosnay 1998). (See figure1. Entropy Law Graph. (Skarameas, 1985) page 1). Based on the above, and making use of the opportunities provided by the era of liberation, and due to the predominant lack of public awareness of energy saving (see ...