Thermal Comfort, Visibility, and the Spatial Layout in Classical Gardens of Suzhou, China

Traditional Chinese gardens, exemplified by the Classical Gardens of Suzhou, demonstrate a high degree of adaptability to environmental conditions through their spatial layout and design techniques. This study reveals that the arrangement of garden spaces is not only consistent with conventional visual guidance but also optimizes thermal comfort and visibility. Using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, researchers analyzed the physical environments within these gardens, finding that winding paths and turning points create dynamic visual contrasts—shifting from closed to open spaces—which enhance spatial experiences. Additionally, the strategic placement of buildings contributes to both atmospheric effects and visual concealment, improving thermal comfort. The research combines architectural design and spatial planning perspectives, offering innovative insights for modern garden design by integrating theoretical applications with advanced analytical methods.

CHIU, Y.-H., WANG, K.-F., & LIN, S.-W. (2023). THERMAL COMFORT, VISIBILITY, AND THE SPATIAL LAYOUT IN CLASSICAL GARDENS OF SUZHOU, CHINA. Applied Ecology and Environmental Research, 21(3), 1991–2009. https://doi.org/10.15666/aeer/2103_19912009