THE TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY OF KENYA

SCHOOL OF CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY STUDIES

DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING CONSTRUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY

BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY IN BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

JULIET WAIRIMU WAHOME

EABI/00787/2020

CLIMATOLOGY

ASSIGNMENT: OPTIMIZING NATURAL VENTILATION IN BUILDING DESIGN

OPTIMIZING NATURAL VENTILATION IN PROPOSED MUSEUM OF
CONTEMPORARY ART

Introduction

The site is located in Upper hill, Nairobi, along Haille Sellasie Avenue. It is adjacent to Capital
hill towers, Forodha House and Madison Insurance Kenya. The proposed 3 storey museum will
cover an area of 80m by 50m. It will host facilities such as art studios, performance space rooms,
library and research centre, gallery space, exhibition spaces and onsite cafes and restaurants.

Figure 1: Site location

Site analysis

The site is covered with grass and a few trees at the edges.

Climatic Condition

Upper Hill is a neighborhood in Nairobi, Kenya, which is located at an elevation of 1798

metres(5899ft). It has a subtropical highland climate (as per Köppen climate classification Cfb)
with warm, wet summers and mild, dry winters.

1. Altitude: Upper hill is situated at an altitude of about 1,798 meters (5,899 feet)
above sea level, which contributes to its moderate and pleasant climate.
 2. Temperature: Nairobi's temperatures are typically moderate and pleasant
throughout the year. The average daytime temperature in Upper Hill ranges from
20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F), with cooler nights. Hence, it does not experience
extreme temperature variations.
3. Rainfall: Nairobi has two rainy seasons – the long rains (March to May) and the
short rains (October to December). During these periods, rainfall is relatively
consistent. Below is a graph of the average temperature and precipitation in
Nairobi:

4. Humidity: Nairobi has relatively low humidity levels, especially compared to coastal
regions in Kenya. The humidity levels are usually more comfortable for residents and
visitors.
5. Sunshine: Nairobi receives a good amount of sunshine throughout the year. The sun is
often shining, and there are plenty of clear days.
 6. Seasons: Nairobi essentially has two main seasons - a dry season and a wet season.
The dry season coincides with the cooler months from June to September, while the wet
season falls in the warmer months from October to May.

7. Wind: Nairobi experiences moderate winds, which can help cool the area and make
the climate more comfortable.

Building form and orientation

Elongated rectangular shape: This form allows for a longer windward side, which maximizes
exposure to prevailing winds and promotes cross-ventilation.

Orientation: Orient the building along the prevailing wind direction to capture the maximum
airflow. In Nairobi, prevailing winds often blow from the southeast, so aligning the building to
allow the wind to pass through it will aid ventilation.

Opening placement and design

In Upperhill, Nairobi, where prevailing winds often come from the southeast, strategic placement
of windows, vents, and openings can significantly enhance natural ventilation within a building
on a moderately steep slope.
Placement of Openings:

1. Southeast Side (Windward Side):

- Windows and vents on this side should be larger and strategically placed to capture the
prevailing winds from the southeast. These openings allow the wind to enter the building,
bringing in fresh air.

- Adjustable louvers or operable windows can control airflow based on wind intensity.

2. Northwest Side (Leeward Side):

- Smaller or fewer openings should be placed on this side to create pressure differences. These
openings allow air to exit, facilitating cross-ventilation.

- High-level vents near the roof can help hot air escape, promoting airflow through the
building.

3. Internal Atriums or Courtyards:

- Incorporating central courtyards or atriums within the building can create natural air
channels. Openings within these spaces encourage air movement throughout the building.
Justification:

1. Utilizing Prevailing Winds: Placing larger openings on the southeast side aligns with the
prevailing wind direction. This maximizes the capture of fresh air and directs it into the
building's interior spaces.

2. Cross-Ventilation: By having smaller or fewer openings on the opposite side (northwest), a

pressure difference is created. This encourages airflow through the building as air enters through
the windward side and exits through the leeward side.

3. Creating Airflow Channels: Internal atriums or courtyards serve as channels for air
movement. Openings within these spaces aid in drawing air through the building, promoting
circulation and natural cooling.

4. Adaptability and Control: Adjustable vents or windows allow for control over the amount of
airflow based on wind intensity. This ensures comfort while utilizing natural ventilation
effectively.
5. Hot Air Escape: High-level vents near the roof on the leeward side facilitate the escape of hot
air, preventing heat buildup within the building and maintaining a comfortable internal
temperature.

Climate adapted design

In Upperhill, Nairobi, the climate exhibits distinct seasonal variations, with a monsoon-
influenced pattern. Addressing these variations and adjusting the building design for different
weather conditions can optimize natural ventilation throughout the year.

Dry Season (January - February, June - September):

Adjustments for Dry, Hot Weather:

- During dry periods, when temperatures are high, maximizing airflow becomes crucial to cool
the building.

- Increase the number and size of openings on the windward side (southeast) to capture any
available breeze.

- Implement shading elements like overhangs or louvers on windows to reduce direct sunlight
and heat gain while maintaining airflow.

- Utilize stack ventilation by opening high-level vents to allow hot air to escape. This strategy
aids in cooling the building naturally.

Wet Season (March - May, October - December):

- Adjustments for Rainy, Humid Weather:**

- Rainfall and higher humidity levels might affect the airflow dynamics.

- Maintain smaller but still operable openings on the windward side to capture occasional
breezes while preventing rain ingress.

- Consider the use of rainproof or adjustable windows that can remain partially open during
light rain for continued ventilation.
 - Focus on maximizing airflow from the windward side while minimizing water ingress.

- Internal courtyards or atriums can still facilitate air movement even during rainy periods.

By tailoring the building's design to address seasonal variations, especially focusing on airflow
control and moisture management, the building in Upperhill, Nairobi, can maintain a
comfortable indoor environment while harnessing the benefits of natural ventilation in different
weather conditions.

Reference

Zemanchik, N., Choinière, Y., Suchorski-Tremblay, A., Munroe, J., & Barrington, S. (1991). Optimum
building orientation for natural ventilation.

Passe, U., & Battaglia, F. (2015). Designing spaces for natural ventilation: an architect's guide. Routledge.

Aste, N., Adhikari, R. S., Del Pero, C., Leonforte, F., & Timis, I. (2017). Sustainable building design in
Kenya. Energy Procedia, 105, 2803-2810.