Quantification of Outdoor Thermal Comfort Levels under Sea Breeze in the Historical City Fabric: The Case of Algiers Casbah

Abstract

Thermal comfort in cities is an influential factor for citizens’ wellbeing and life quality. Urban microclimate studies have gained popularity following increasing urbanization trends and global climate change in recent years. Urban fabric and morphology in traditional cities represent a unique pattern both spatially and climatically. However, few studies have investigated traditional cities’ urban thermal comfort conditions. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the thermal comfort in different subspaces of Algiers Casbah’s historic urban fabric, which falls in the hot Mediterranean climate (Csa). This research evaluated the human thermal sensation by applying the physiological equivalent temperature (PET) index. The methodology used was a mixed approach, including field measurements, calculations, and a survey questionnaire. The results indicate the presence of a high-stress level during the measurement periods, and notable differences between the subspaces in January (ΔPETMax.Jan = 3.7 °C) and August (ΔPETMax.Aug = 2.2 °C). The highest discomfort was recorded in spaces with collapsed buildings, especially during the hot hours of the day. The findings also highlight a strong impact of the sky view factor on the mean radiant temperature (Tmrt) and the physiological equivalent temperature (PET). The study discusses recommendations and ways to improve the design of outdoor spaces and relieve heat stress in the streets of traditional cities. Finally, this work helps urban managers and heritage conservators in urban rehabilitation policies concerning outdoor microclimate improvement.

Coupling of different nature base solutions for pedestrian thermal comfort in a Mediterranean climate

“…The study focused on specific areas chosen based on criteria, including vulnerability to high temperatures during summer, identified through a thermal comfort quantification study [50]. Additionally, areas along the busiest main street with high activity levels were selected, and priority was given to locations with collapsed houses, presenting potential opportunities for rehabilitation [50].…”

Urban Building Thermal Comfort Research Based on ArcGIS and Building Parameters: Analyzing and Improving Measures

“…As urbanization accelerates, urban population density and building density continue to rise, gradually revealing the urban heat island effect [1][2][3][4][5]. Thermal comfort significantly affects the quality of life and health status of urban residents [6][7][8][9][10][11]. Therefore, researching improvement measures for urban building thermal comfort and providing a scientific basis for urban planning and architectural design are of great importance for enhancing the quality of life of urban residents [12][13][14][15][16][17][18].…”

Optimizing the design of courtyard houses for passive cooling in hot, dry regions

“…Furthermore, traditional courtyard houses usually increase the shading by being built in closely packed shapes and being next to a narrow and deep alleyway [27] with few or no windows overlooking the outside [28]. This closed urban design has an essential role in reducing heat stress in the urban fabric by reducing the solar radiation received by the walls around alleyways, which will reduce the radiant temperature and air temperature as concluded from the field study of Arrar et al [29]. This makes the courtyard the main opening for fresh air for the house.…”