Microclimate characteristics in the famous dwellings: A case study of the Hakka Tulou in Hezhou, China

Abstract

Hakka Tulou is a famous local earth construction, which is included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage buildings. To the best of our knowledge, there is a lack of thorough research into the microclimate characteristics of Hakka Tulou. In this study, we investigated the microclimate characteristics in the Hezhou Hakka Tulou. The indoor thermal sensation of the enclosure in warm circumstances was approximately equal to that of cool circumstances. However, the indoor thermal environment of Hakka Tulou could be improved by outer guard structures. In summer, the corridor structure allows for cooling down of the indoor air temperature, while the patio structure has the advantage of dehumidification. However, in winter, the building envelope has the advantages of thermal insulation and moisture-proofing. The location of higher wind speed in summer was mainly orientated from the center of the Hakka Tulou; however, this center appeared in the patio space. Such special environmental factors may be useful for the purpose of warmth in winter and coolness in summer. Furthermore, the patios of the Hakka Tulou effectively improved the lighting coefficient and illumination in the courtyard. However, the daylighting capacities of the inner rooms were considerably lower than those in the outer rooms.