Objective
– Initially understand local climatic patterns and develop climatically-adapted design strategies.
-First design step: develop interior spatial and material strategies adapted to body demands.
-Second design step: learn how program can be used from a thermodynamic perspective to generate heat sources and sinks.
-Thirdly, develop external massing morphological and material strategies to interact with local sun wind patterns.
-Finally overlay different climatic strategies in a convergent design strategy.
Location
The metropolitan area of Barcelona consists of 311 municipalities. San Adrian de Besós is one of them, with an area of 3,87 km² and a population of 37.925, according to the 2023 census.
Climate Analysis
Psychometric Charts Analysis:
The indoor temperature in summer mostly exceeds the human comfort range while in winter the temperature is too cold. The design interventions most likely to improve winter comfort should improve internal heat gain, particularly with passive solar direct gain strategies. In summer, designs can utilize the same thermal mass as in winter but incorporating night flushing, as well as shading of glazing and natural ventilation strategies; additional evaporation or mechanical cooling strategies could be used to reach 100% thermal comfort in the summer months.
Sun Path on January 15:
The sun follows a much lower arc in the sky. Sunrise occurs more to the southeast (SE), and sunset is toward the southwest (SW). The duration of daylight is shorter, with he sun staying closer to the horizon throughout the day. This results in lower solar angles, leading to less direct sunlight penetration into buildings.
Sun Path on July 15:
The sun follows a much higher arc. Sunrise shifts more toward the northeast (ENE), and sunset extends further northwest (WNW). The daylight duration is significantly longer, with the sun reaching a much higher altitude.
Wind Patterns:
The dominant wind direction throughout the year is NNW, with secondary winds from WNW and W. Wind speeds remain consistent across both seasons.
Temperature Trends:
Cooler conditions (0–20°C) dominate January–July. Warmer conditions (20–38°C) characterize July–January, particularly during summer.
Humidity Trends:
Higher humidity (>70%) in winter months (January, February, December). Lower humidity (<30%) occurs during the peak of summer (July, August).
Understanding the Climate and the Context of Barcelona:
Barcelona’s Mediterranean climate is shaped by its geography: the Mediterranean Sea moderates temperatures and adds humidity, while the Serra de Collserola mountains channel winds and cause rainfall by cooling rising moist air. This balance fosters a pleasant outdoor lifestyle. Architecture in the region adapts through shaded courtyards, overhangs, and cross-ventilation to manage heat, while thick walls and thermally efficient materials provide seasonal comfort. Strategic orientation maximizes solar gain, integrating design with the natural environment.
Climate – People – Architecture
In summer, the people in Barcelona wear minimal or lightweight clothing to combat the heat. External sources of shade such as umbrellas, trees, and built shading systems provide additional ways to escape the hot sun.
In winter, the people of Barcelona dress warmly using layers of insulative wool, down, and synthetic materials to keep in body heat. Scarves and hats are common as people find ways to minimize thermal heat loss to the outside environment.
Climatic Strategies Listings and Ranking
Design and Climatic Prototype
Final Design Scheme : From Micro to Macro
Massing and Design Ideation
Exploded Isometric
Summer Section – Thermodynamic Diagram
Winter Section – Thermodynamic Diagram
Final Render
