CLIMATE-RESPONSIVE RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE AND ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY: A STUDY OF LAHORE, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Rapid urbanization, climate variability, and rising energy costs in Lahore, Pakistan, have increased the need for residential architecture that is both climate-responsive and economically sustainable. This study examines the impact of climate-responsive design on economic sustainability in residential buildings, with a particular focus on the moderating role of environmental awareness. Grounded in sustainability and ecological modernization perspectives, the research integrates environmental design strategies with economic performance outcomes. A quantitative research approach was employed, and primary data were collected from 270 respondents, including architects, engineers, and homeowners in Lahore. The study utilized Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) through SmartPLS to analyze the relationships among the constructs. Climate-responsive design was operationalized using indicators such as natural ventilation, building orientation, insulation, shading, and daylight utilization. Economic sustainability was measured through energy savings, cost efficiency, and lifecycle affordability, while environmental awareness was examined as a moderating variable. The results reveal that climate responsive design has a significant and positive impact on economic sustainability, indicating that passive design strategies substantially reduce energy consumption and operational costs. Environmental awareness also shows a significant direct effect and strengthens the relationship between climate-responsive design and economic sustainability. The model demonstrates moderate explanatory power and strong predictive relevance. The study concludes that integrating climate-responsive design in residential architecture is both environmentally beneficial and economically viable in developing urban contexts. It further highlights the importance of user awareness in maximizing sustainability outcomes. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, architects, and developers to promote sustainable housing practices and support resilient urban development in Lahore and similar cities.