Impact of High-Rise Structures on Wind Flow and Thermal Comfort in Urban Environments

Abstract

Tall buildings are essential elements of urban canopy, significantly influencing wind flow over large areas. This paper presents the results of the "Influence of Urban Infrastructure on Natural HVAC Dynamics" project, focusing on the interaction between wind flow, tall buildings and the urban canopy in a real-time model of a neighborhood in South London, UK. A high-fidelity CFD simulation approach is employed to examine the wake of buildings and interactions within the canopy layer. Additionally, dynamic outdoor thermal comfort analysis is conducted to enhance understanding of the potential influence of high rises on the downstream buildings. The results show that a tall building located upstream significantly influences airflow at higher levels, whereas wind patterns near the roof level are primarily dictated by local buildings rather than the upstream high-rise. Additionally, high rises were found to be associated with lower thermal comfort factors.