Multiobjective Optimization of the Intergenerational Residential Space With the Goal of Daylighting and Thermal Comfort

Abstract

(1) Background: An ageing population and two-child policy have led to the transformation of China’s family structure, and multigenerational residences account for an increasing proportion of mainstream family residences. Different generations of residents have great differences in behaviour patterns and health requirements, but existing residential buildings are not especially designed for health needs. (2) Methods: First, based on relevant codes and a questionnaire survey, the spatial needs and behaviour patterns of different generations of residents are obtained, and the benchmark model is established based on the Grasshopper (GH) parametric platform. Then, based on the GH platform and the building simulation plug-in, which are Ladybug Tools and a multiobjective optimization tool named Wallacei, daylight autonomy (DA), useful daylight illuminance (UDI), and the proportion of thermal discomfort hours (PDH) are taken as daylighting and thermal comfort indicators, and the bedroom location, orientation, bay size, depth to bay ratio, window form, window-to-wall ratio, and horizontal shading width are optimized. Finally, the Pareto front is analysed by the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) comprehensive evaluation method, and the optimal solution is compared with existing multigenerational residences in Tianjin. (3) Results: First, the middle room, oriented south or south by east, large bay, small window-to-wall ratio, and bay window can effectively be improved for indoor thermal comfort, while rooms that are oriented south or south by east, small depth bay ratio, large window-to-wall ratio and balcony can effectively be improved for daylighting quality. Second, compared with existing buildings in Tianjin, the DA, UDI, and PDH of the adult bedroom with the ideal solution are increased by 33.7%, 3.5%, and 10.8%, respectively; the DA, UDI, and PDH of the child bedroom with the ideal solution are increased by 15.5%, 4.2%, and 4.9%, respectively; and the DA, UDI, and PDH of the elderly individual bedroom with the ideal solution are increased by 42.7%, 4.9%, and 1.7%, respectively. (4) Conclusions: The optimization scheme is substantially improved for the health of the indoor daylight and thermal environment of existing housing, and it provides a scientific and quantitative decision-making basis for the healthy design of multigenerational residences.

Analysis of Cross-Generational Co-Living Space Configuration in Residential Communities—Case Study in China and Italy Based on Space Syntax

“…In future research and designs, incorporating the specific needs of cross-generational interaction is an important part of the development of aging in community. In addition to the influence of emotional needs and cultural backgrounds, cutting-edge technological research on cross-generational co-living spaces is also important, such as the comfort of cross-generational spaces based on health [53] and virtual environments to promote intergenerational learning [54]. This study serves as the early foundation for the design guidelines for cross-generational co-living.…”