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Microclimates, as natural or technicai phenomena, are thermal zones with site-specific physical and thermodynarnic characteristics. They are shaped by air temperature, moisture, rain, wind and other environmental factors. This publication emphasizes the man-made character of urban microclimates, and as such, expands existing approaches from applied climatology and building science. As artifacts, microclimates are part of local material cultures with various ecological, social and political implications.
Following a theoretical approach which mediates between architecture and the social sciences, this publication explores how thermal diversity —both outdoors and indoors—is a product of human interaction with the built environment of cities. The case studios and interviews critically engage with urban microclimates in Burkina Faso. France, Italy, New Zealand, the Philippines, Taiwan and the United States.
Far from being arbitrary, the case studies highlight the critical role of architects, landscape architects and urban planners in the design and construction of urban microclimates.
