Recent research led by Seyed Tajeddin Mansouri from Shahid Rajaei Teacher Training University of Tehran has unveiled critical insights into how the physical layout of high-rise buildings and residential complexes can significantly influence urban heat islands (UHIs) and global warming (GW). Published in the journal Energy and Built Environment, this study highlights the pressing need for thoughtful architectural design in urban planning to enhance climate resilience.
The research investigated four different architectural arrangements: solitary, environmental, combined, and rowly block patterns. By utilizing numerical calculations and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations through ENVI-meto software, the study assessed various climatic factors such as air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and thermal comfort in open spaces.
One of the most striking findings indicates that the arrangement of buildings can raise air temperatures associated with global warming by as much as 3 °C and contribute to urban heat islands by 0.5 °C. This presents a significant challenge for urban planners and developers, as higher temperatures can lead to increased energy consumption for cooling, negatively impacting both the environment and residents’ comfort.
Mansouri’s research identified the combined architectural pattern as the most effective in reducing the adverse effects of global warming due to its compact structure. However, when it comes to mitigating the impacts of UHIs, the solitary pattern emerged as the most beneficial. “The solitary pattern is the most optimal pattern to reduce the severity of adverse effects of GW and UHIs,” Mansouri noted, emphasizing the advantages of a scattered distribution of blocks that facilitates better air circulation.
From a commercial perspective, these findings present a significant opportunity for architects, urban planners, and real estate developers. By adopting the optimal building arrangements identified in the study, stakeholders can not only enhance the livability of urban environments but also potentially reduce energy costs associated with cooling and heating. Furthermore, as cities increasingly grapple with climate change, incorporating these insights into building designs could position developers as leaders in sustainable construction practices.
The research also highlighted the role of relative humidity and wind speed in thermal comfort. The solitary arrangement was found to maintain higher humidity levels, which can be crucial in hot climates, while the environmental pattern improved wind speed, benefiting overall air circulation.
As urban areas continue to expand, understanding the relationship between building design and climate impacts will be essential. This study serves as a clarion call for the construction industry to prioritize sustainable design principles that not only address current environmental challenges but also enhance the quality of life for urban residents.
The implications of this research are far-reaching and underscore the importance of integrating scientific findings into practical applications within the built environment. As noted by Mansouri, “the most optimal pattern to reduce the severity of the adverse effects of GW is solitary and environmental patterns.” This insight provides a roadmap for future developments in urban architecture, fostering a more sustainable and resilient urban landscape.
