Characterising living wall microclimate modifications in sheltered urban conditions

Abstract

Green infrastructure enhancements are widely advocated to address heat-related risks in cities. The challenge of implementing enhancements in dense cities has necessitated the development of surface greening, with living walls having gained increased prominence in recent years. This paper considered such in-situ applications to quantify the extents of their influence on the microclimates of two sheltered urban conditions. The results highlight the potency of hygrothermal modifications to be most apparent within the immediate zone, while the disparity in influence between the two studies suggest that with increased shelter the hygrothermal influence is likely to be relatively weaker. Surface temperature monitoring results from the Indoor case study presented significant variation. While these were not potent enough to cause radiation asymmetry associated discomfort, thermal sensation and diversity to occupants is probable. These findings therefore highlight the necessity for designers to take account of this proximity influence, and in future designs to increase building occupant access to installations.