A house that breathes
Traditional Persian houses turn inward around a courtyard with a pool and trees. Thick walls, shade and moving air keep the rooms cool through hot summers without machines. Windcatchers pull breezes down into the house, and sunken rooms stay cool underground.
The idea
Gather drawings and photographs of courtyard houses, learn why they work, and sketch modern plans that use the same ideas for homes in any hot, dry climate. Hassan Fathy and Nader Khalili both worked this way, and Yazd is the best place to see it.
How to help
Share plans or photos of courtyard houses you know, or offer to review drawings.