Influence of space properties of enclosed patio on thermal performance in hot-humid areas of China

Patio plays an important role in climate adaptation and microclimate adjustment of buildings. This study aims to explore enclosed patio design guidelines, which are essential for both architectural design methodology and practical projects for providing better thermally comfortable indoor and outdoor spaces. A combined qualitative and quantitative methodological approach was used to clarify how the passive design strategies of the enclosed patio affect the thermal environment of houses around the patio. The findings reveal the spacial characteristics and thermal adjustment of enclosed patios. The results of simulation indicate that appropriate design parameters of enclosed patio can achieve a better indoor and outdoor thermal comfort environment for its users, which includes similar dimension in width and depth, increased number of windows in a high ratio of width to depth, semi-open auxiliary space, 3-4 floor height, upper-lower double windows of four-sided enclosed patio and south opening direction of three-sided enclosed patio.