Architect-friendly climate analysis tool for bioclimatic design in hot humid climates

Abstract

Climate analysis tools are complementary to building performance tools because designers need the ability to assess the potential effects of climate on specific building solutions. Although several existing climate analysis tools exist, many depend on static comfort models for fully space conditioned buildings, do not cater for free-running buildings in hot humid climates and require significant analytical expertise. Architects and urban planners need the ability to assess the potential of applying bioclimatic design strategies, in relation to adaptive comfort models within cities with hot humid climate, at relevant cities scales. Therefore, we present a climate analysis tool that can make climate analysis more accessible, practical and useful in hot climates. Firstly, we performed a climate zoning based on altitude, solar irradiation and dry bulb temperature. Secondly, we developed a bioclimatic analysis based on temperature and humidity levels. Focus group discussions involved 40 architects to assess the further develop the tool. In the paper, we show how the open-access tool provides building professionals a simplified method of climate zoning and a more convenient way of determining the best available thermal comfort models and suitable design solutions. This study contributes to research efforts that analyses and visualise climatic data for sustainable building design.