Model of Geometry and Atrium Position Affecting Natural Air Circulation in Urban Row Houses
Khotijah Lahji 1, Agus Budi Purnomo 2, Lili Kusumawati 3, Inavonna4 , Atikah Manar Hanani 5

Department of Architecture, Faculty Civil Engineering & Planning, Trisakti University

Abstract

The limited geometric design of urban row houses, particularly regarding the position of air inlets and outlets through doors and windows, often restricts natural airflow. Moreover, interior design elements such as partitions and space divisions further impede wind movement within the building. In response to these limitations, the atrium can function as a stack effect facility, enhancing vertical air movement and increasing airflow speed. This study aims to test and simulate eight atrium design models and their spatial arrangements using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods. The core problem addressed is the restricted natural ventilation paths in row houses, which typically share walls with adjacent buildings. The research methods include: (a) microclimate measurements at the row house site, (b) floor plan and section drawings using CAD software to generate precise geometric data, and (c) CFD simulations to compare ventilation performance across the eight atrium models. The results show that atrium models positioned at the front and those with a central linear configuration produce better air velocity and circulation patterns. Additionally, a U-shaped vertical airflow model with atriums on the left and right sides achieves optimum ventilation performance. This research provides practical recommendations for architectural design practitioners to optimize natural ventilation performance, support thermal comfort, and enhance energy efficiency in the design of urban row houses.

Keywords: Geometry Model, Atrium, Natural Air Circulation, Row House, Urban Area

Topic: The Concept of Livable Space