A study of Indoor Environment of Large Glazed Office Building in Semi Arid Climate

Abstract

In recent years the rate of buildings with large glazed facades is rapidly increasing, particularly in office buildings. Where, the creation of a suitable thermal and visual comfort is a significant factor affecting productivity. The use of large glazed facades without adapted shading measure generates thermal and visual discomfort, wich ranges from uncomfortable environment conditions to serious health effects. Specialized work and literature about performance evaluation of large glazed office buildings in relation to their environment are lacking in semi arid climates, characterized by significant intensity of solar radiations in the summer period of the year.

This study investigates the impact of large glazing areas on thermal and visual comfort in a sample of naturally ventilated office building located in the semi arid climate of Algeria (36°, 17 N and 7°, 23’ E). A Post Occupancy Evaluation technique (POE), being a mainstream activity in the process of building operation phase is used for this purpose. The main objective is to stress practitioners, specifically architects, to take conscious decisions in an early phase of design process. The study clearly highlighted discomfort in the studied office building. It included unacceptable temperature arising from glazed facade; overheating due to excessive solar gains; insufficient ventilation and poor daylighting. The results indicate that such large fenestration system is not recommended in summer time. However, a judicious choice of the glazing size and type by simulation tools must balance lighting and thermal needs.