ZHAW Develops Heat-Resistant Outdoor Areas for Schools

(CONNECT) Heat in schoolyards isn't just due to unusual weather conditions. Paved playgrounds and heated buildings that don't cool down at night also contribute to this. On behalf of the Building Authority of the Canton of Zurich, an interdisciplinary team from the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) has now investigated how schools can be designed to be more heat-resistant. According to a press release, a study was conducted using the Rychenberg and Im Lee cantonal schools in Winterthur as examples to determine to what extent redesigning the outdoor areas could improve the environment.

The rooms at both schools were analyzed using modern climate simulations. It became apparent that the south-facing facades are subject to high to extreme thermal loads. It was determined that the perceived temperature over the sealed surfaces was more than 15 degrees Celsius higher than the measured air temperature. Students tend to avoid these areas. The ZHAW team, in collaboration with Landscale AG, has developed four sets of measures to address this situation: greening of rooftops and terraces, soil restoration and ground-level planting, structured shading of recreational areas, and climate optimization. Simulations covering the period from 2035 to 2060 showed that a perceived temperature reduction of 20 degrees would be achievable. In addition, 1,200 square meters of new recreational space is expected to be created by 2035, and a total of 3,300 square meters by 2060. The study prioritizes the removal of impervious surfaces from existing land.

“Measures that simultaneously increase shade, cooling, and the quality of the outdoor environment have the greatest impact on students’ well-being and on the usability of outdoor spaces for classes and during breaks,” said Anke Domschky, project manager and lecturer at the ZHAW’s Institute for Urban Landscape, is quoted as saying in the press release.

At the Im Lee Cantonal School, the team examined the thermal comfort inside the building. Recommendations were made to implement facade improvements on the south side, install automated nighttime ventilation, and, in the next phase, use hybrid systems. These plans will be implemented at the Rychenberg Cantonal School as part of the ongoing renovation project, with a total investment of 3 million Swiss francs. The study builds on a conceptual study by Krebs and Herde Landscape Architects and was developed in collaboration with the landscape architecture firm Landscale. ce/ww