Investigating the relationship between outdoor thermal comfort and user behaviour patterns in public open spaces in a winter city : an empirical study of Oodi Library Plaza in Helsinki
Ghasemi, Shaghayegh (2024)
2024
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024092325521
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024092325521
Tiivistelmä
Urban microclimates significantly influence outdoor thermal comfort (OTC) and, consequently, human behaviour within public spaces. This study delves into the intricate relationship between these factors, with a specific focus on winter city conditions. By examining Oodi Library Entrance Plaza (in Kansalistori Square) in Helsinki, a prominent public space characterised by its dynamic urban context, this research aims to contribute to the development of climate-sensitive design strategies that optimise Winter Cities' public space utilisation year-round.
To investigate the relationship between OTC and user behaviour, a mixed-methods approach was employed. Qualitative field observations were conducted across seasons to understand user experiences and activity patterns. Simultaneously, quantitative simulations using ENVI-met and Grasshopper were used to assess microclimatic conditions and their impact on space utilisation.
Key findings reveal a complex interplay between OTC and user behaviour. Engaging features and interactive elements were found to attract users regardless of microclimate, highlighting the importance of social magnetism in public space design. However, thermal comfort played a crucial role in seasonal variations in user behaviour. Winter observations indicated a preference for sun-exposed areas, suggesting a need for design strategies that maximise sunlight exposure during colder months. Conversely, in summer, users sought refuge from heat, emphasising the importance of urban design elements for cooling effects.
This research addressed this need by proposing design interventions for the Oodi Library Plaza, targeting user comfort in all seasons (winter, summer, and transitional months). Simulations of these interventions in winter and summer conditions demonstrated positive impacts on the plaza's OTC, particularly during winter months.
By understanding the relationship between OTC and user behaviour and implementing climate-sensitive design strategies like those proposed in this study, urban planners and designers can create more comfortable, engaging, and inclusive public spaces that promote year-round use.
To investigate the relationship between OTC and user behaviour, a mixed-methods approach was employed. Qualitative field observations were conducted across seasons to understand user experiences and activity patterns. Simultaneously, quantitative simulations using ENVI-met and Grasshopper were used to assess microclimatic conditions and their impact on space utilisation.
Key findings reveal a complex interplay between OTC and user behaviour. Engaging features and interactive elements were found to attract users regardless of microclimate, highlighting the importance of social magnetism in public space design. However, thermal comfort played a crucial role in seasonal variations in user behaviour. Winter observations indicated a preference for sun-exposed areas, suggesting a need for design strategies that maximise sunlight exposure during colder months. Conversely, in summer, users sought refuge from heat, emphasising the importance of urban design elements for cooling effects.
This research addressed this need by proposing design interventions for the Oodi Library Plaza, targeting user comfort in all seasons (winter, summer, and transitional months). Simulations of these interventions in winter and summer conditions demonstrated positive impacts on the plaza's OTC, particularly during winter months.
By understanding the relationship between OTC and user behaviour and implementing climate-sensitive design strategies like those proposed in this study, urban planners and designers can create more comfortable, engaging, and inclusive public spaces that promote year-round use.