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Study on the Impact of Courtyard Proportions in Kunming’s Vernacular One-Seal Dwellings (Yikeyin) on Architectural Climatic Adaptability

Author

Listed:
  • Yaoning Yang

    (School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China)

  • Xinping Wang

    (School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China)

  • Shuqi Luo

    (School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China)

  • Yongqiang Wang

    (School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China)

  • Xun Wen

    (School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China)

  • Na Ni

    (School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China)

  • Ling Wang

    (School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China)

  • Wei Jiang

    (School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 201804, China)

  • Jixiang Cai

    (School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China)

  • Genyu Xu

    (School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China)

  • Junfeng Yin

    (College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China)

  • Baojie He

    (Key Laboratory of New Technology for Construction of Cities in Mountain Area, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China)

  • Wei Xue

    (Precision Blasting State Key Laboratory, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China)

Abstract

As climate challenges intensify, architectural design must reconcile energy efficiency with environmental adaptation. This study investigates how two skywell geometries in Kunming’s traditional One-Seal dwellings (Yikeyin) optimize seasonal thermal and ventilation performance. Combining field analysis and simulations, a comparative analysis of skywell depth-to-width ratios reveals that larger proportions enhance summer airflow but exacerbate winter heat loss, while smaller ratios stabilize winter conditions. Vertical thermal stratification highlights distinct microclimates across floors, with skywells exhibiting pronounced seasonal fluctuations. The findings affirm the climate-responsive intelligence embedded in vernacular architecture, demonstrating its relevance for contemporary sustainable design. By bridging traditional wisdom and modern green building practices, this work advances strategies for climate-resilient architecture and rural habitat enhancement, prioritizing both ecological balance and human comfort.

Suggested Citation

  • Yaoning Yang & Xinping Wang & Shuqi Luo & Yongqiang Wang & Xun Wen & Na Ni & Ling Wang & Wei Jiang & Jixiang Cai & Genyu Xu & Junfeng Yin & Baojie He & Wei Xue, 2025. "Study on the Impact of Courtyard Proportions in Kunming’s Vernacular One-Seal Dwellings (Yikeyin) on Architectural Climatic Adaptability," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(7), pages 1-44, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:7:p:3066-:d:1624336
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