The 'Teatinas' of Lima: Energy analysis and possibilities of contemporary use

“Teatinas”, roof openings for zenithal ventilation and daylighting, were systematically used in buildings in the city of Lima and in most of the Peruvian coast from the mid-18th century to the end of the 19th century. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the thermal and lighting performance of the rooms where the “teatinas” were used and to assess an eventual use of similar resources in contemporary architecture. After defining the climate of the city, the buildings where they were installed and the “teatinas” themselves, the thermal and lighting conditions resulting from their use were calculated based on comparative measurements and simulations: air temperature and relative humidity, ventilation, lighting levels and glare. The results showed that the presence of a “teatina” in a room provides comfortable hygrothermal conditions, good air intake and circulation inside a room. As compared to conventional windows, the “teatina” allows for a more even distribution of daylight inside the space and more possibilities of avoiding glare. Finally, it is concluded that “teatinas”, consistent with the climate and daylighting conditions of the city of Lima, did fulfill the comfort requirements of homeowners of that period of time and are a valid reference and concrete alternative in the current search for comfortable spaces in energy-efficient buildings.