Do courtyards reduce solar radiation?

Deeper courtyards and compact urban streets can be effective in reducing solar radiation for tropical areas with high summer heat stress and temperate areas with hot summers. In temperate climate zones, the appropriate ratio of courtyards can enable both a reduction in summer radiation and a reduction in winter heat loss.

Do courtyard design factors affect energy consumption?

The present study focuses on the impact of courtyard design factors (such as proportion, orientation, geometry, opening characteristics, and material) and its components (such as shading devices, vegetation, and water pool) on energy consumption, indoor and outdoor temperatures, solar radiation, and natural ventilation in different climates.

Does a courtyard improve energy balance?

In dry and hot climate zones, such as Kuwait [ 74 ], Iran, Tunisia, the Middle East [ 50 ], Nigeria [ 75 ], etc., the microclimate created by the courtyard mitigated the effects of extreme heat in free-running conditions, eliminating over 88% of the time of severe indoor discomfort and proving superiority in energy balance [ 76 ].

Do courtyards improve thermal comfort & reduce energy consumption?

Although the courtyards are considered as an efficient solution to improve thermal comfort and reduce energy consumption by regulating the microclimate , , they are facing enormous challenges in meeting the increasing comfort demands of the occupants , , .

Can courtyard design reduce cold and heat demand?

The combination of shading and ventilation is an effective way to reduce cold and heat demand. The suitable aspect ratio, plan aspect ratio and orientation of courtyards in different climate zones were obtained. Courtyard design is a sustainable strategy for reducing energy consumption and improving thermal comfort.

Does courtyard design improve thermal and microclimatic conditions of urban spaces?

Sustainable design strategies reduce energy consumption of buildings and environmental pollution. Moreover, these strategies improve the microclimatic conditions of urban spaces. In this regard, courtyard design is an efficient sustainable strategy to improve thermal and microclimatic conditions of urban spaces.