Assessment of Climate Adaptation of Youth Club in Tozeur, South of Tunisia

Abstract

Impact of users on thermal behaviour of a building and a building's impact on the use of different spaces are two aspects that are subject of post occupancy evaluation of the present paper. The building was designed according to passive concepts, including Insulated envelope and internal thermal mass; also computer simulations were used to optimize thermal performance of different components of the design. The evaluation was done by using quantitative method to document climate and interior lighting. A qualitative method was also used for analysis of building use and perception of indoor climate by users. High windows were placed in the hall and lobby for night flush to cool the building during summer. However, the difficulty of opening them had led that night ventilation was never practiced. In winter, less window's areas would be sufficient to satisfy the thermal comfort during the day while ensuring a sufficient level of natural lighting. Daylight level measured in the morning shows that the level of illumination is acceptable; however it remains below the required minimum during the afternoon during fall, winter and spring. Small to medium windows, (4-10% of floor area) on west orientation could improve the daylight during the afternoon. Also, a late closing of the youth club would be desirable for the spring, summer and fall when days are long. The results of the interviews describe a high level of satisfaction from users with regard to indoor climate. Bioclimatic design has a positive impact on the use of the youth.