Extract

This paper evaluates passive design strategies against occupant feedback and behaviour in two air-conditioned
office buildings situated in the hot-humid climate of Singapore and Malaysia. Indoor conditions are monitored;
occupants are surveyed and observed. Of the passive principles available, two are present in both buildings:
daylighting as a strategy for indoor illumination and solar load management through envelope design. The
combination of high daylight and façade thermal transmittance levels – particularly in the areas nearest the
building envelope – results in behaviour that negates the effectiveness of the measures in general. It is argued
that the passive approach for the hot-humid tropics needs to be reevaluated. Occupant expectations of comfort –
particularly in relation to activity and outdoor conditions – should be studied and calibrated. A methodology is
proposed for extracting comfort criteria. This is significant to how indoor comfort can be created within various
climate and building types.

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