Architectural factors influenced on physical environment in atrium

Abstract

In the atrium of public buildings, the physical environment is determined by architectural features in various ways; therefore, an integrated consideration of the overall physical environment is important. The aim of this chapter is to find out the common factors, which influence the daylighting, acoustics, natural ventilation, and thermal environment from the viewpoint of architectural design. Based on a systematic examination and analysis of previous studies in various aspects of physical environment, different effects of material properties, atrium geometry, atrium shape, roof structure, and adjoining spaces on the daylighting, acoustics, natural ventilation, and thermal environment have been revealed. Consequently, common factors which have influenced on two or more aspects of physical environment have been identified, along with their tendency of influence. It is expected that the results would help to optimize, at the early design stage, the physical environment.