Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 M. A.Student in Urban Design , Department of Urban Planning and Design, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
2 Associate Professor, Department of Urban Planning and Design, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
Abstract
The escalation of urbanization rates, coupled with the consequential environmental impacts and rising energy demand for thermal regulation, has highlighted the growing importance of microclimatic considerations in urban development for designers and planners. The optimal design of urban geometry plays a crucial role in modulating microclimatic conditions and enhancing the quality of urban spaces. Shiraz’s historical urban geometry, specifically adapted to its climatic context, exemplifies how effective design strategies can foster favorable thermal comfort in urban areas. Microclimatic conditions in urban spaces are closely linked to the surrounding urban geometry, making its optimal design a powerful tool for urban designers to fine-tune microclimatic conditions and improve the overall quality of urban environments. An analysis of recorded weather data from Shiraz reveals a rising average temperature trend consistent with global patterns. However, the city’s historically informed design has passively mitigated some of the challenges of climatic changes. Acknowledging the dynamic nature of urban contexts, including the evolution and transformation of historic structures such as those in Shiraz, this study quantitatively assesses the performance of historical urban geometry in the study area. It examines the microclimatic consequences resulting from changes in urban form. Employing a descriptive-analytical approach and utilizing historical documents, images, and maps, the research simulates the study area’s historical and contemporary urban geometries using ENVI-met software. The simulation data were validated through field sampling of the temperature microclimatic index on July 1st and calculating the correlation coefficient between the measured and simulated data. A comparative evaluation of microclimatic conditions arising from the two urban textures was then conducted. The simulation results indicate that modifications in the study area, such as increased sky visibility and reduced height-to-width (H/W) ratios, lead to higher temperatures, increased radiant heat, reduced shaded surfaces, increased wind speed, and decreased relative humidity, ultimately diminishing thermal comfort. These findings underscore the importance of preserving the integrity of the historic urban fabric and adhering to design policies that enhance microclimatic conditions. This approach ensures that urban spaces evolve harmoniously with Shiraz’s macroclimate, promoting sustainable urban development.
Keywords
- Thermal comfort
- climate responsive design
- urban geometry
- urban microclimate
- Sang-e-Siah Historical Quarter
Main Subjects
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