INTEGRATION OF PASSIVE COOLING DESIGN STRATEGIES IN SHOPPING MALLS, ZARIA, KADUNA STATE

Abstract

Globally, shopping malls trends have been changing from open precinct to larger shopping malls. This transition is heading towards a more enclosed and air conditioned environment as compared to the older forms of shopping centres such as arcade and plazas, which were designed opened. Shopping malls in Nigeria are therefore evolving into high consumption area of electricity, as a result of reclusive design approach due to minimum or no use of natural ventilation. The aim of this thesis is to investigate the passive design strategies used to achieve passive cooling in shopping malls. The objectives assessed the existing shopping malls and evaluate the passive cooling design measures used to reduce the effect of excessive heat aside the use of energy consuming devices. A descriptive survey method was adopted with the use of an observation schedule where selected samples within the study area were examined to determine the frequency of use and effectiveness of passive cooling design strategies used in the samples. Findings from the samples were analysed and interpreted to show if the design strategies are appropriately incorporated to serve the purpose of achieving thermal comfort or are rather used for aesthetics. Findings shows the frequency of the parameters used in the course of the study and it is finally observed from the selected samples that shopping malls in Nigeria are mostly dependent on active cooling system rather than the passive cooling strategy. Also, the result shows that most of the facilities adopt the use of courtyard to enhance air circulations within the building than other forms of central openings like atrium and skylights, courtyard were used in about 40% of the samples while the 3 other forms of large openings shared the remaining 60% from the samples taken. However the highest number of the respondent attest to the fact that they are mostly affected by thermal discomfort in the afternoon than other time of the day these respondents’ population amounts to approximately 73% of the sample population. The findings reveal that a very high proportion of the sampled shopping malls depend mostly on the use of mechanical devices such as fans and air conditioners to enhance cooling in its indoor environment. Lastly, It is worthy of note that this thesis emphasized on the design strategies to reduce dependency of artificial means of enhancing passive cooling. These can be achieved through proper building orientation, adequate planting and installation of green landscape elements, effective use and proper positioning of shading devices and careful selection of building material that allow for proper thermal insulation.