Habitability in Urban Density: Microclimate and Comfort in Mohammadpur’s Multistoried Apartments, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Dhaka’s rapid vertical growth has changed residential life, often sacrificing thermal comfort and environmental quality. This study compares multistoried apartments in Mohammadpur’s planned, spacious Japan Garden City with those in the denser, organically evolved Shekhertek neighborhood. It examines how building height, orientation, and open spaces affect indoor microclimates and resident well-being. Four units at different floor levels and directions were monitored using on-site temperature, humidity, and daylight measurements, along with resident surveys. The findings show that apartments surrounded by ample open spaces enjoy better airflow, moderated humidity, increased daylight, and less reliance on cooling systems. These conditions are reflected in the residents’ comfort assessments. In contrast, units in crowded areas face higher heat buildup, moisture issues, and increased energy costs, resulting in significant discomfort. These results highlight that open spaces serve as essential microclimatic regulators, affecting health, satisfaction, and energy efficiency in Dhaka’s growing residential spaces.