The Impact of Courtyard Configuration on Energy Conservation and Comfort, Case Study of Yazd

Construction that prioritises profit maximisation often neglects the inclusion of passive techniques to reduce building energy consumption, leading to heightened environmental impacts and a lack of attention to occupant comfort. In hot, arid regions like Yazd, designing habitable spaces is particularly challenging during the summer and other warm periods. The historic architecture of Yazd exemplifies a harmonious relationship between humans and their environment, employing courtyards within its structures to provide comfort and enhance indoor air quality. The configuration of these courtyards plays a critical role in their effectiveness. Thoroughly examining the specific effects of these architectural elements could culminate in the realisation of more comfortable and energy-efficient living spaces. This research examines different courtyard configurations to as certain their contribution to energy efficiency and thermal comfort enhancement. DesignBuilder software is used to assess the optimal courtyard design, taking into account various architectural variables, including size and orientation, to measure the efficiency percentage of each proposed prototype. The application of the most efficient courtyard could decrease dependence on mechanical air conditioning, thus conserving energy and augmenting indoor air quality. Incorporating these insights into building regulations may allow for a synthesis of contemporary architecture and traditional design principles, fostering sustainability and improved living standards in arid climates akin to that of Yazd.