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Climatic Considerations and implementation of Bioclimatic Design Strategies for Student Affairs Buildings in a Hot-Humid Environment
Subject area: Science,Engineering and Technology · Area of research: Architecture
Abstract
In hot-humid climates such as that of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, achieving indoor thermal comfort in institutional buildings presents persistent challenges due to high temperatures, intense humidity, and seasonal rainfall. This study examines climatic considerations and the implementation of bioclimatic design strategies in Student Affairs Buildings, with a focus on improving indoor environmental quality while reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected through structured questionnaires, site observations, and climate data analysis. A total of 126 staff members from student affairs offices across selected universities participated in the survey, while Mahoney tables and thermal diagnosis tools were employed to analyze local climatic parameters. Findings reveal that Ilorin?s climate is characterized by high diurnal temperature ranges in the dry season, extreme humidity during the wet months, and seasonal wind direction shifts. These conditions necessitate design interventions such as proper building orientation (preferably along the east?west axis), cross and stack ventilation, shaded courtyards, thermal mass materials, wide roof overhangs, and rain protection features. Thermal analysis indicates consistent daytime heat stress, emphasizing the need for passive cooling strategies and ventilated building envelopes. Among the bioclimatic strategies evaluated, courtyards and open spaces emerged as the most effective (Relative Importance Index [RII] = 0.85), followed by proper building orientation (RII = 0.81) and natural ventilation methods (RII = 0.79). Buffer zones (e.g., verandas and shaded lobbies) and solar control devices were also widely adopted, while solar panels, though least directly impactful on thermal comfort, supported energy sustainability. These findings demonstrate a growing awareness and integration of climate-responsive design elements in institutional settings. The study concludes that bioclimatic design in hot-humid environments should prioritize passive cooling techniques that align with local climate dynamics and occupant behavior. Implementing design features such as operable windows, vegetative shading, and outdoor communal spaces can enhance comfort, reduce energy use, and create culturally appropriate student environments. The recommendations offer practical guidance for architects, planners, and educational institutions aiming to promote sustainability and resilience in tropical climates.
Keywords
Bioclimatic Design, Thermal Comfort, Hot-Humid Climate, Passive Cooling
References
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How to cite this paper
@article{1709845,
author = {Abdulazeez Tajudeen Adebayo, Abdulrasaq Kunle Ayinla},
title = {Climatic Considerations and implementation of Bioclimatic Design Strategies for Student Affairs Buildings in a Hot-Humid Environment},
journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
year = {2025},
volume = {9},
number = {1},
pages = {1807-1818},
issn = {2456-8880},
url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1709845.pdf},
abstract = {In hot-humid climates such as that of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, achieving indoor thermal comfort in institutional buildings presents persistent challenges due to high temperatures, intense humidity, and seasonal rainfall. This study examines climatic considerations and the implementation of bioclimatic design strategies in Student Affairs Buildings, with a focus on improving indoor environmental quality while reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected through structured questionnaires, site observations, and climate data analysis. A total of 126 staff members from student affairs offices across selected universities participated in the survey, while Mahoney tables and thermal diagnosis tools were employed to analyze local climatic parameters. Findings reveal that Ilorin?s climate is characterized by high diurnal temperature ranges in the dry season, extreme humidity during the wet months, and seasonal wind direction shifts. These conditions necessitate design interventions such as proper building orientation (preferably along the east?west axis), cross and stack ventilation, shaded courtyards, thermal mass materials, wide roof overhangs, and rain protection features. Thermal analysis indicates consistent daytime heat stress, emphasizing the need for passive cooling strategies and ventilated building envelopes. Among the bioclimatic strategies evaluated, courtyards and open spaces emerged as the most effective (Relative Importance Index [RII] = 0.85), followed by proper building orientation (RII = 0.81) and natural ventilation methods (RII = 0.79). Buffer zones (e.g., verandas and shaded lobbies) and solar control devices were also widely adopted, while solar panels, though least directly impactful on thermal comfort, supported energy sustainability. These findings demonstrate a growing awareness and integration of climate-responsive design elements in institutional settings. The study concludes that bioclimatic design in hot-humid environments should prioritize passive cooling techniques that align with local climate dynamics and occupant behavior. Implementing design features such as operable windows, vegetative shading, and outdoor communal spaces can enhance comfort, reduce energy use, and create culturally appropriate student environments. The recommendations offer practical guidance for architects, planners, and educational institutions aiming to promote sustainability and resilience in tropical climates.},
keywords = {Bioclimatic Design, Thermal Comfort, Hot-Humid Climate, Passive Cooling},
month = {July},
}