OUTDOOR THERMAL COMFORT : AN ENVIRONMENTAL MAPPING METHODOLOGY FOR THE DESIGN OF OUTDOOR SPACES

Abstract

The quality of outdoor spaces is important as it contributes to the quality of life within cities. The acceptance and use of outdoor spaces are dependent on many factors, of which thermal comfort conditions, and the microclimate accordingly, is key. Although the importance of outdoor comfort is recognized, present outdoor comfort indices have limited applicability in helping designers design with the environment. The assessment of outdoor thermal comfort conditions and the manipulation of microclimates to create comfort conditions are primary issues facing designers of outdoor spaces. A quick and simple methodology of environmental mapping that can function as both an evaluative and design tool is developed in this dissertation to address these issues. A case study demonstrating the application of the methodology is also presented. The methodology is found to be able to assess thermal comfort and assist in the design process. It is better suited for projects at a larger scale, e.g. at masterplan level. The case study demonstrated the method for an outdoor park attraction setting with relatively well defined circulation and homogeneous user group and has to be further developed to demonstrate applicability in more complex urban environments with multiple user groups and variable circulation routes.