A Spatial Analysis Methodology for the examination of Solar, Wind and Sky View Conditions in Traditional Squares of the Eastern Mediterranean Region

Abstract

The study of microclimatic conditions, their ability to form determinant parameters of urban morphologies and their impact on the choices for the social interaction of dwellers, has been of increased interest to researchers over the last decades. In this context, spatial analysis methods for assessing the microclimate in public spaces, which can be exploited as means for improving the quality of life in the built environment, are increasingly used. In the framework of this study a spatial analysis methodology of solar, wind and sky view considerations was followed involving public open spaces, i.e., squares, in traditional settlements of Cyprus. Based on this investigation, the study presented herein focused on the spatial examination of the solar, wind and sky view conditions in three typical traditional case-study squares in different climatic regions of Cyprus, pertaining to the Mediterranean climate. The purpose of the study is to discern the potentials and limitations of various traditional built form structured outlines with respect to climate-conscious design, but more importantly to present qualitative comfort assessment tools which allow a spatial – visual perception of the parameters affecting thermal comfort. The assessment methodology which has been applied is based on seasonal image processing techniques of solar, wind and sky view factor parameters. The resulting thermal comfort maps open the road for a major advance in assessing outdoor open spaces through bioclimatic principles and can be used as tool by architects and planners to identify outdoor public spaces that require design interventions or as an initial design step in implementing new climate-based outdoor public spaces.