Parametric design methodology for shadow elements in tropical regions' public spaces

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15517/h33vdn55

Keywords:

Parametric architecture, glare, public space, thermal stress, urban shadow

Abstract

In tropical cities such as Medellín-Colombia, citizens behavior is directly influenced by environmental conditions stimulated by high solar radiation that result in thermal stress due to heat and visual discomfort; compromising their permanence in urban spaces. Therefore, this work proposes a methodology that evaluates and suggests shading as a passive strategy to improve thermal and light conditions. First, climatic characterization of the study case (Plaza del Parque de San Antonio) is carried out, from which a parametric shadow device was conceptualized, proposing 18 possible configurations, later the environmental impact of each one is evaluated through Ladybug and Honeybee plug-ins from Grasshopper software. Finally, A multicriteria weighting process identifies the most accurate parametric configuration. Results show that mitigation of solar radiation and hours of sunshine can be above 93% and 77%. Glare can be fully resolved, and heat stress goes from strong to moderate based on the Universal Thermal Climate Index. (UTCI). 

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Author Biographies

  • Santiago Castrillón Hincapié , University of San Buenaventura - Medellín

    Architect and Master in Bioclimatic Engineering, graduated from the University of San Buenaventura in Medellín, Colombia (2013). For the past 9 years, he has focused his professional experience on providing consulting services to public and private entities, specializing in the formulation, design, and execution of urban planning and design projects with an emphasis on active mobility and sustainable urban development.

  • Lucas Arango Díaz, National University of Colombia

    Architect, graduated from the National University of Colombia, Medellín Campus. He has a Master's degree in Architecture and Urbanism with emphasis on the Environmental Behavior of Urban Spaces and Buildings, obtained from the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), in Florianópolis, Brazil. He also holds a PhD in Architecture and Urbanism from the University of Bío-Bío, Chile. He currently works as an associate professor at the National University of Colombia.

  • Carolina Patiño, National University of Colombia

    Architect with emphasis on Bioclimatic design, graduated from the National University of Colombia, Medellín Campus. Specialist in urban design. She has worked as a bioclimatic consultant, coordinator and designer of social housing projects, and is recently the regional leader of the Colombian Council for Sustainable Construction.

  • Carlos Manuel Esteban Bettin Karles, University of San Buenaventura, Medellín

    Architect, graduated from the National University of Colombia, Medellín Campus. He has a master's degree in Bioclimatic Engineering, obtained from the University of San Buenaventura, Medellín Campus, Colombia. Specialist in University Teaching from the same institution. Currently, he works as a professor in the Faculty of Integrated Arts at the San Buenaventura University, Medellín campus.

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Published

2025-12-23

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 2 (2025): REVISTARQUIS 28

Section

Articles

License

Copyright (c) 2025 Santiago Castrillón Hincapié , Lucas Arango Díaz, Carolina Patiño, Carlos Manuel Esteban Bettin Karles (Autor/a)

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How to Cite

Parametric design methodology for shadow elements in tropical regions’ public spaces. (2025). Revistarquis, 14(2). https://doi.org/10.15517/h33vdn55