ENVIRONMENTAL COMFORT ASSESSMENT OF SEMI-OUTDOOR SPACES IN NUS CAMPUS - BLOCK AS8

Abstract

AS8 is an iconic teaching facility located at the heart of the NUS Kent Ridge Campus. The building distinctively differentiates itself by using natural ventilation as a means for cooling in most of its semi-outdoor spaces. Impressive energy saving results were reported since the reliance on air-conditioning and mechanical ventilation systems were reduced substantially. However, the extent of environmental comfort provided to the building users remains questionable as the semi-outdoor spaces could be highly susceptible to the varying external environment. Therefore, the study emphasised on the environmental comfort assessment and the corresponding users’ perceptions of the selected semi-outdoor spaces.

Objective measurements were conducted to assess the spaces in terms of thermal, acoustical and visual comfort as well as the air quality. Results showed that most of the selected spaces have rooms of improvement for at least one of the environmental comfort performances. On the other hand, results from the subjective assessment showed different conclusions given the varied responses of the perceived environmental comfort. An important observation was that a warm sensation expressed by the respondent does not necessarily translate to discomfort. It was interpreted that the respondents in these semi-outdoor spaces were able to acclimatise and accept warmer conditions since they are mostly local residents.

Hence, a more accurate assessment can be made by referring to both the relevant Singapore Standards and the users’ expectations. Recommendations will be made based on the functions of the selected semi-outdoor spaces and the varying types of activities in the respective areas. Factors such as the adaptive approach by humans and the onset of unpredictable outdoor conditions were taken into consideration as well.