Thermal comfort and building design in the tropical climates

For people living in warm humid climates the perception of comfort is influenced by long-term conditioning to high temperatures and humidity. Clothing and personal habits are influenced by exterior conditions, as are expectations of comfort. A study of occupants of urban housing in Bangladesh indicates tolerance to high temperatures and very high humidities for comfort. Given the climate of the region and little experience of air conditioning this is not unexpected. Building design in urban areas is marked by the increasing popularity of multi-storeyed appatment blocks, where the choice of wall thickness and exposure to radiation can make significant contribution to indoor comfort. Simple means such as cool surfaces and ceiling fans are able to provide comfort.