Maslow in the Mud. Contrast between qualitative and quantitative assessment of thermal performance in historic buildings

Abstract

This paper argues that the notion of comfort is first and foremost related to subjective choices and individual value systems. The article presents results from research on the perception and measurements of the thermal qualities of heritage buildings in Lincolnshire, UK. The qualitative and quantitative results identified a strong contrast between different methodologies. Inhabitants describe as comfortable houses which would not be considered comfortable if a standard positivist approach was used. The conflict presented will be discussed in the context of sustainable strategies in architecture.