The Influence of External Spaces Building Performance Towards Learners' Thermal Comfort in Taylor's University's Lakeside Campus

Abstract

The rapid expansion of urbanization resulted in the necessity of providing more spaces. Due to the insufficient internal spaces, external spaces were used to complement the functionality of spaces on the university campus. However, thermal comfort in the external spaces was much more difficult to control as compared to internal spaces. Thus, it was crucial to identify the parameters affecting thermal comfort. This study presented a fieldwork measurement and personal satisfaction survey to evaluate the microclimate characteristic of the external space as well as the satisfaction of occupants. Findings revealed there was a high level of thermal discomfort in the study spaces that encountered a strong impact from the parametric thermal environment. Hence, the recommendation to take thermal comfort into consideration during the design stage was proposed. The study concluded that a well-performed building would have a great level of thermal comfort and as a result, high frequency and satisfaction of usage of spaces could be achieved.