Experiments on Microclimatically adapt a courtyard to climate change

Abstract Climate change impacts biodiversity, the use of public spaces, as well building energy demand, and health in Mediterranean cities. The courtyard is a common typology private/public open space area, which, according to previous research, substantially affected by climate change. main reasons are be found limited ventilation significant amount radiation received upper surfaces. A preliminary microclimate, simulation-based evaluation mitigation strategies adapt capitalize on changes here performed through assessment series analyses using reference year 2020 2080. study addresses representative courtyard, San Sepolcro cloister (Parma, Italy). One strategy explored, limiting direct solar radiation. shading system, which reduces radiation, arises from process morphogenesis based parameters exploits with vertical structures typical some cacti, following biomimicry approach imitating natural strategies. In this case, imitation regards both form function, generative process. research was conducted parametric design Rhino-Grasshopper environmental analysis ENVI-Met. Universal Thermal Index (UTCI) index for thermal comfort. system allows improving comfort, protection sun’s rays non-obstruction courtyard.