The color in the vernacular bioclimatic architecture in Mediterranean region

The building sector plays a crucial role in relation to energy and environmental issues. For this reason, today, it pays great attention to the need of a bioclimatic architecture closely related to environment, history and traditions of the various places. In this context, the guidelines for careful planning of environmental issues can be traced precisely in vernacular architecture, the result of a close link with the territories and a great sensitivity towards nature. This study focuses on an example of vernacular Mediterranean architecture, represented by the old town of Ostuni (Puglia, Italy). The objective is to analyze the peculiarities of the building and urban layout, with particular attention to the external coating with white lime base, showing in detail the influence of the staining on microclimatic conditions. The results of the carried out analysis highlight the benefits and weaknesses of studied constructive solutions. Thus, it is supported the view that it is necessary to rediscover and be inspired by the vernacular architecture, not representing them as anachronistic, but always drawing on the contributions of technical and scientific progress. The research points out the influence of exterior finishing surfaces on the energy performance of buildings as well as on the outdoor thermal and visual comfort of the inhabitants. (C) 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.