Building physics design of urban surfaces

Abstract

Structural-spatial form and urban land use are among the main transformative fields of action of cities. Quality of life and environment, identity and individuality as well as participation in local society are significantly influenced by urban surfaces. Most urban surfaces have so far been designed for the long-term fulfilment of individual purposes, but offer greater scope for design in terms of functionality and adaptability, quality and efficiency. It therefore makes sense to develop, evaluate, technologically expand and test the potential of urban surfaces in terms of building physics as a whole. In view of growing stress on urban structures due to climate-induced influences, such as flooding, extreme weather conditions or heat islands, new possibilities, processes, systems or materials are needed to improve resilience. The article presents exemplary developments that can be supplemented and combined. Hydroactive surfaces can buffer rainwater and release it with a time delay to reduce heat and flooding equally. Green façades improve city climate and air quality. Sound-absorbing façades reduce inner-city noise. Innovative transparent foil enclosures provide equally visibility and an optimum weather protection of objects to be protected throughout the year.

Effects of Façades on Urban Acoustic Environment and Soundscape: A Systematic Review

“…This review paper classifies vegetation on the façades as an absorptive material; however, the geometrical properties of vegetation on façades could be relevant and require attention. Vertical greenery systems were considered in six studies [20,24,30,32,34,37] and offered noise reductions between 2 and 5 dB(A). Applications of vegetation on the upper halves of buildings surrounding the street have shown reductions of about 4 dB [37,43] and the use of vegetation in the lower half of the buildings only resulted in a limited reduction.…”