Abstract
Is there a model for a thermally comfortable mid-sized urban square in the Dutch climate context which offers sufficient wind protection and a good distribution of sun- and shade places? To answer this question, a ‘research by design’ process was followed. This process included the design of different alternatives of spatial configurations that were expected to generate thermal comfort in different seasons. These configurations were then tested with Envi-met® simulations on their effects for different seasons and different squares. The ‘research by design’ process showed that for the Dutch context of mid- sized urban squares the most optimal model that could be developed and tested, were sequences of ‘urban shelterbelts’. These consist of 25 m high deciduous trees and have transparent wind screens in the trunk space. The ‘urban shelterbelts’,
when placed perpendicular to the dominant Southwesterly winds both protect the squares from these winds and also offer sufficient shaded situations. This optimized model can be used to address thermal comfort in urban square design, but it needs to be adjusted to each place and embedded in the integral design of a square.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Title of host publication | PLEA 2011 Architecture & Sustainable Development Vol.1 |
Place of Publication | Louvain |
Publisher | Presses Universitaires de Louvain |
Pages | 403-409 |
ISBN (Print) | 9782874632761 |
Publication status | Published - 2011 |
Event | 27th International conference on Passive and Low Energy Architecture - Duration: 13 Jul 2011 → 15 Jul 2011 |
Conference/symposium
Conference/symposium | 27th International conference on Passive and Low Energy Architecture |
---|---|
Period | 13/07/11 → 15/07/11 |
Keywords
- 'research by design'
- Outdoor comfort
- Urban squares