Structures that Include a Semi-Outdoor Space: Part 2: Thermal Environment

The thermal environment of buildings with a second "skin" and semi-outdoor space is examined in the present study. A literature review was conducted on similar structures and only a few studies were found focusing on the thermal environment. Two different building case studies were chosen with different building and shield geometry, different levels of insulation but same shield material; Dome of Visions (DoV) and EMBRACE. Both buildings were modelled in IDA ICE 4.6.2 simulation software in order to assess the thermal environment of the building and assess how long the semi outdoor space of each building can be used by the occupants. The study was based on weather data for Copenhagen. In addition to the simulations, physical measurements were performed in DoV to assess the thermal environment in the semi-outdoor space. Since existing standards are not applicable for semi-outdoor spaces, an alternative method was followed with adjustable clothing level and three different tolerance levels. The semi-outdoor area of both buildings was found to provide more than double the comfortable occupancy hours compared to outdoors and the semi outdoor spaces can be roughly used for 45% of the year. Finally, the semi-outdoor space’s temperature in DoV was higher than the ambient throughout winter by at least 3ºC.