• Journal of the Korean Institute of Landscape Architecture
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• v.38 no.5
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• pp.12-20
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• 2010

The purpose of this study is to evaluate human thermal comfort by spatial structure and to explore solutions to improve the thermal environment of a small urban space. The study site was Korea University campus. Thermal conditions were measured to evaluate the quality of the thermal environment in each type of space within the study site. Micrometeorology measurements, analysis of space characteristics for using fish-eye lens photography, and thermal comfort modeling through the use of collected meteorological data, such as temperature and humidity, were performed. Results showed that the level of thermal comfort for humans differs depending on the types of space within the study site. Thermal comfort is better in open spaces than enclosed in the aspect of radiative mean temperature, Predicted Mean Vote(PMV), and Physiologically Equivalent Temperature(PET). This fact is probably due to shadows or buildings or trees that may block solar radiation. Thus, it is necessary to consider the spatial arrangements of buildings and trees to enhance openness and ventilation in the space. Paving materials and exterior building materials should also be selected to lower the radiant temperature. Given these results, a quantitative evaluation on human thermal comfort could propose a way to plan user comfortable small urban spaces. Study methods used and results provided in the study can promote a better way for urban space planning direction to improve environmental quality.