Cooler Blocks: Cooling Residential Blocks through Optimized Block Configurations

Mikaela Strech

When it comes to residential blocks, the design proposals aim to optimize their heat mitigation capabilities through two distinct strategies related to the block configuration.

For multi-family residential blocks, a fully shaded and continuous green space is created within the courtyard. Additionally, parking spaces are thoughtfully integrated into the building design and adequately shaded to reduce heat impact.

For single-family residential blocks, the front setback is significantly reduced, and the original backyards of adjacent parcels are combined to form a larger inner-block green space. Simultaneously, parking spaces are fully shaded to mitigate heat.

A series of post-design analyses have been conducted to validate that the proposed configurations outperform the existing conditions in terms of shade provision and ventilation. These analyses serve as evidence of the improved performance and effectiveness of the design in addressing heat-related challenges.

Concept diagram: Well-shaded courtyard provides viable living living spaces for residents

Sketches

Multi-family residential block: Existing block configuration

Multi-family residential block: Proposed block configuration

Single family residential block: Proposed block configuration

Cooler Streets: Cooling Streets through Shade-Oriented Streetscapes

Maria Castillo, Sarah Lohmar, Elyse Oliver

At this scale, the design proposals strive to establish a new paradigm for street design, focusing on enhancing outdoor thermal comfort, promoting walkability, and integrating micro-mobility options. Three crucial spatial elements are utilized to optimize shade performance: architectural design (including building height and façade characteristics), strategically placed street trees, and the incorporation of artificial structures.

To illustrate the transformative potential of this new design paradigm, Pima Street serves as an example. Given the varying land uses along Pima Street, three distinct sections are delineated to demonstrate how street design should adapt to different land use configurations.

By incorporating these design principles and tailoring them to specific land use contexts, the proposed street designs aim to create an environment that maximizes shade provision, improves outdoor comfort, seamlessly integrates with the surrounding urban fabric, and provides multi-modal mobility options.

streetscapes

Existing site conditions

Proposed site design

Proposed site design with section lines

A series of sectional perspectives show how to leverage various spatial design elements, such as buildings, trees, and structures, to maximize the street shade

A set of before/after sections show how to integrate multi-modal mobility into the proposed streetscapes