Outdoor Microclimate Analysis for Enhancing Architectural Project Designs

The climate conditions of outdoor urban spaces is strongly influenced by the form and materiality of surrounding buildings. Features as specific as balconies and different-coloured claddings can contribute to the temperatures felt by pedestrians in the immediate vicinity. This project aims to discover architectural features which improve outdoor thermal comfort during the shoulder seasons of mixed climates (Spring and Fall). The implication is that outdoor leisure spaces such as courtyards, patios and rooftop terraces may be used for a larger part of the year – the shoulder seasons effectively become ‘stretched’. The method involves using computer simulations and applied physics to determine the relative influence of various architectural features on temperature. KPMB will benefit from the expansion of their design scope in a new dimension, which will grant them new opportunities to satisfy everyone who interacts with their projects.

Faculty Supervisor:

Umberto Berardi

Student:

Partner:

KPMB Architects

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Toronto Metropolitan University

Program: