Assessment of Ventilation Performance and Thermal Comfort in Semi-open Spaces of Naturally Ventilated Traditional Dwellings in Tai Lake Area, China

Abstract

Semi-open space is a special architectural space form between indoor and outdoor, which has the functions of transition, climate regulation and energy saving. Effective use of semi-open space is an important ecological strategy in adapting to the climatic conditions of traditional dwellings in Tai Lake region of China. However, it has been shown that the hot and humid summers in the area caused discomfort for a large number of urban dwellers. Therefore, in this research, field measurements based on four environmental parameters (Ta, Tr, Va and RH) were conducted from 27 June 2023 to 7 July 2023 in three multi-courtyard traditional dwellings in the Tai Lake area to evaluate the ventilation performance and thermal comfort of the interior and semi-open spaces of the dwellings. The aim was to assess the role of semi-open space types and structures in the climate regulation of architectural spaces and their potential application in the design of modern dwellings to reduce summer discomfort. Semi-open spaces are effective in promoting natural ventilation to cool the building. This cooling effect is not due to the semi-open spaces themselves having lower temperatures. The indoor thermal environment was influenced by the outdoor climate and had a lagging effect. In addition, the ventilation performance of the semi-open space inside alley was the best, followed by the patio closest to the door.