Dialectics of Low Energy Design, Accessibility, and Materiality in Tropical Urban Crisis

Authors

  • Hepi Duchovny Young INDONESIA
  • Erni Setyowati INDONESIA
  • Eddy Prianto INDONESIA
  • Agung Dwiyanto INDONESIA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32832/astonjadro.v14i4.21183

Keywords:

tropical design trilemma, universal design, phase-change materials, architectural dialectics, urban crisis.

Abstract

This research examines the development of tropical buildings that address the challenges of climate change and population growth by integrating accessibility for all and designing buildings that consume less energy. This research aims to assess the social and technical conflicts between accessibility and energy efficiency, and to develop an evaluation framework based on optimization algorithms that finds a balance between the two. Testing phase change materials (PCMs), energy modelling using Energy Plus, and critical policy analysis employing Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) are all integral components of the mixed-methods approach. The primary result is that PCMs can help maintain more stable temperatures without requiring significant insulation; however, issues with regulations and design persist. Standard designs may exceed energy limits, but generally make it more challenging to achieve places. Research indicates that to create inclusive and sustainable tropical architecture, it is essential to establish integrated criteria and employ a transdisciplinary approach.

Author Biographies

Hepi Duchovny Young, INDONESIA

Student of Doctoral Program in Architecture and Urban Studies, Department of Architecture, Diponegoro University, Semarang

Erni Setyowati , INDONESIA

Lecturer of Doctoral Program in Architecture and Urban Studies, Department of Architecture, Diponegoro University, Semarang

Eddy Prianto, INDONESIA

Lecturer of Doctoral Program in Architecture and Urban Studies, Department of Architecture, Diponegoro University, Semarang

Agung Dwiyanto, INDONESIA

Lecturer of Doctoral Program in Architecture and Urban Studies, Department of Architecture, Diponegoro University, Semarang

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Published

2026-01-01

How to Cite

Young, H. D., Setyowati , E., Prianto, E., & Dwiyanto, A. (2026). Dialectics of Low Energy Design, Accessibility, and Materiality in Tropical Urban Crisis. ASTONJADRO, 14(4), 1352–1363. https://doi.org/10.32832/astonjadro.v14i4.21183

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Articles