Influence of Building Envelope Design on Indoor Thermal Comfort of Office Workers in Enugu, Nigeria

Abstract

Climate Change and global warming are problems that result to an increase in indoor temperature especially in the tropical region. The adverse effect of rise in temperature has increased the need for indoor cooling in order to improve comfort for building occupants. Building envelope separates indoor spaces from outdoor spaces and is also capable of improving indoor comfort through appropriate balance of passive and active techniques. The contemporary concern is on how to improve the contribution of the passive techniques of building envelope towards enhancement of indoor comfort. This focus on the passive means is orchestrated by not only the recent increase on indoor heat but also by the negative impact of energy-driven active techniques of improving indoor comfort. This paper focused on evaluating the influence of building envelope design on indoor comfort of office workers in Enugu. The method adopted was review of past studies and survey of office workers to ascertain their thermal perceptions and preferences as it affects office performance. Descriptive statistical analysis specifically Frequency Distribution Table (FDT) was used to evaluate data obtained from questionnaires. Result of the analysis showed that all the questionnaire items tested have value above the criterion mean of 2.5. This implied that building envelope and thermal comfort have significantly influence the productivity of office workers in Enugu. Conclusion and recommendations were proffered on how to explore passive qualities of the building envelope to improve indoor comfort especially for future office building designs in the tropics.