A review of the influence of courtyard geometry and orientation on microclimate

Courtyard design is a sustainable strategy for reducing energy consumption and improving thermal comfort. In addition, as climate-responsive buildings, courtyards can create microclimate on a local scale under specific climatic conditions. The components that influence the microclimate of a courtyard are geometry, orientation, openings, wall materials and landscape elements. An integrated design strategy is an effective way to improve courtyard microclimate. However, many studies conducted empirical studies for specific climate regions or used simulation software to optimize a variable. The paper explored the effects of geometry and orientation on shading and ventilation, as well as their combination on microclimate improvement in different climatic zones. 798 articles were screened from Science Direct, Scopus and Web of Science search engines, 92 articles were selected for meta-analysis and synthesis. Results showed that courtyards with north-south orientation (within 45° of deviation) and high aspect ratios (greater than 2) achieve excellent shading performance for areas with hot climates and intense heat. In temperate climate zones, square or round courtyards with an aspect ratio of around 1 allow for a better balance between solar radiation gain in winter and solar shading in summer, achieving satisfactory thermal performance in both seasons. As for cold climate zones, square courtyards with north-south orientation (within 15° of deviation) and high openness can obtain more solar radiation. Moreover, courtyards with higher windward side enclosure can be effectively sheltered from the wind. Strategies in this paper can be applied in the design planning stage to create a suitable microclimate for the courtyard. •The key variables affecting the courtyard microclimate were determined.•The combination of shading and ventilation is an effective way to reduce cold and heat demand.•The suitable aspect ratio, plan aspect ratio and orientation of courtyards in different climate zones were obtained.