Journal of Engineering and Architecture

Pedestrianization of a Vehicular Urban Corridor: Designing for User Comfort
Andreas L. Savvides

Abstract
This paper examines the spatial and bioclimatic considerations that are embedded in the formulation of open spaces for collective use in a major thoroughfare, Makariou, in the capital region of the island-country of Cyprus, in the Eastern Mediterranean. The climatic context of Cyprus is indicative of the broader geographical region of Southeastern Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. For purposes of comparative analysis, existing and proposed redevelopment conditions are juxtaposed, to visualize and quantify conditions of thermal and visual user comfort by varying the materials palette and landscape accessorization of the site in question. The results are based on an environmental simulation using Ecotect by Autodesk and a discussion of the findings aims at examining inherent conditions that account for user comfort in such locales, as well as evaluating aspects of sustainable design in existing open spaces and the potential to transfer lessons learned in contemporary design practices.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jea.v3n2a1