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Assessment of Thermal Comfort in Contemporary Residential Buildings

Abstract

Thermal comfort is an important aspect of residential building performance because indoor temperature conditions directly influence occupant wellbeing, health, productivity, and satisfaction. Contemporary residential buildings are increasingly exposed to challenges associated with rising temperatures, changing climatic conditions, urban heat, and growing dependence on mechanical cooling. Poor building orientation, inadequate shading, inappropriate materials, limited ventilation, and inefficient building envelopes can contribute to uncomfortable indoor conditions. Assessing thermal comfort is therefore essential for understanding how residential buildings respond to climatic conditions and occupant needs. This study assesses thermal comfort conditions in contemporary residential buildings, focusing on the architectural and environmental factors that influence occupants' perception of indoor thermal conditions. The assessment considers building orientation, room configuration, window size and position, shading devices, roof design, wall and floor materials, glazing, ventilation openings, and building envelope characteristics. Occupancy patterns, clothing, activity levels, and user preferences are also considered as factors that may influence individual thermal responses. The study further examines the relationship between natural ventilation and thermal comfort in residential spaces. Window configuration, cross-ventilation, air movement, ceiling height, internal space arrangement, and external wind conditions are considered in evaluating the effectiveness of passive ventilation strategies. The influence of shading, vegetation, balconies, verandas, and other transitional spaces on solar heat gain and indoor temperature conditions is also assessed. These features are examined in relation to their potential to reduce overheating and improve comfort without excessive reliance on mechanical cooling. In addition, the assessment considers the thermal performance of building materials and envelope systems. Wall construction, roof materials, insulation, glazing characteristics, surface finishes, and thermal mass can influence the rate at which heat enters or leaves residential spaces. The study examines how appropriate material selection and envelope design can moderate indoor temperature fluctuations and improve thermal stability. The interaction between material properties, building orientation, solar exposure, and ventilation is also considered in understanding overall residential thermal performance. The study recognizes that thermal comfort conditions can vary considerably according to climate, building type, occupant behaviour, time of day, season, and individual preferences. Residents may adapt their behaviour by adjusting windows, using shading, changing clothing, operating fans, or modifying patterns of room use. Maintenance conditions can also influence ventilation openings, shading devices, and building envelope performance. Understanding these factors is important for developing residential design strategies that respond to both environmental conditions and actual patterns of occupant use. The study aims to assess thermal comfort in contemporary residential buildings and identify architectural factors that contribute to improved indoor thermal conditions. Its findings are expected to assist architects, engineers, developers, homeowners, and policymakers in developing residential designs that enhance comfort while reducing energy consumption associated with cooling. The study ultimately contributes to the development of climate-responsive, energy-efficient, healthy, and environmentally sustainable residential buildings.

Keywords: Thermal comfort, residential buildings, contemporary housing, indoor environment, natural ventilation, solar heat gain, building envelope, passive design, shading devices, building materials, occupant comfort, thermal performance, energy efficiency, climate-responsive design.