Role of Sky-gardens in Improving Energy Performance of Tall Buildings

Abstract

Natural ventilation has been used as a passive strategy for many decades but only now its importance in tall buildings for addressing the issues of high energy usage and reducing carbon footprints is emerging. Sky-gardens can play an important role in successful implementation of natural ventilation through amplification of natural wind speeds. This study presents a state-of-the-art review on optimization of tall buildings energy performance through incorporation of sky-gardens. Pros and cons of use of natural ventilation for multi-story buildings are highlighted. Details of involved technical difficulties and barriers in the construction and operation process of sky-gardens are also given. Relevant case studies of existing tall buildings around the world using this strategy are analysed to critically evaluate its effect. The results of this study will be useful for incorporation of sky-gardens and improving energy performance in similar buildings. In the end recommendations for future research needed with respect to sky- gardens in tall buildings are also provided.