In the face of escalating climate change, the construction industry is grappling with a critical challenge: how to future-proof buildings to ensure thermal comfort and energy efficiency. A recent study published in the Journal of Design for Resilience in Architecture and Planning, which translates to “Journal of Resilient Design in Architecture and Planning”, offers promising insights into this pressing issue. Led by Mark Alegbe from the Federal Polytechnic, the research explores how integrating micro-landscapes—such as trees, lawns, and water features—can significantly enhance indoor thermal comfort and energy performance in tropical climates.
The study focuses on two climatically contrasting locations in Nigeria: Jos, known for its cooler temperatures, and Sokoto, characterized by intense heat. Using dynamic thermal modeling in DesignBuilder, Alegbe and his team simulated a hypothetical building under three scenarios: without landscape features, with landscape features, and with landscape features combined with mixed-mode cooling. The findings are compelling. By strategically placing landscape elements to limit solar radiation on the building envelope, indoor discomfort hours can be reduced by up to 18% in naturally ventilated spaces. This is a game-changer for the energy sector, as it demonstrates that passive design strategies can play a pivotal role in mitigating the impacts of extreme climates.
However, the research also highlights the limitations of passive strategies alone. “While landscape interventions can significantly improve thermal comfort, they cannot replace the need for mechanical cooling under future climate extremes,” Alegbe notes. The study found that a combined strategy of vegetation and cooling achieved up to a 92% reduction in discomfort hours. Yet, this comfort improvement came with an increased energy demand of up to 48% for the total building and 78% for conditioned spaces. This dual-edged sword underscores the need for a balanced approach that integrates both passive and active cooling systems.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. As buildings become more energy-efficient, the demand for advanced cooling technologies is likely to rise. This creates opportunities for innovation in sustainable cooling solutions, such as heat pumps and advanced air conditioning systems that can operate more efficiently in extreme climates. Additionally, the study’s findings could influence building codes and regulations, encouraging the integration of landscape features in urban planning to enhance thermal resilience.
Alegbe’s research also raises important questions about the future of urban design. As cities continue to expand, the integration of micro-landscapes could become a standard practice in building design. This shift could drive demand for green infrastructure and create new markets for landscaping and horticultural services. Moreover, the study’s focus on future climate data underscores the importance of proactive planning in the face of climate change.
In conclusion, Alegbe’s research offers a roadmap for future-proofing buildings in tropical climates. By leveraging the power of landscape integration, the construction industry can enhance thermal comfort and energy performance, while also creating new opportunities for innovation and growth in the energy sector. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, this study serves as a timely reminder of the importance of sustainable design and the need for a holistic approach to building resilience.