Evidence on the Improvement of the Thermal Comfort Index and Habitability in Bioclimatic Spaces of the Mediterranean Region

Abstract

Climate change is a critical environmental challenge of this century, with particularly severe impacts projected for the Mediterranean region. In Spain, maximum temperatures are expected to increase by more than 2°C by the end of the century, with more frequent and longer-lasting heatwaves. Urban adaptation strategies such as bioclimatic architecture and integrating vegetation into built structures are effective tools to moderate microclimates and create climate shelters. However, a gap in empirical research connecting these tools in hot semi-arid Mediterranean contexts remains. This study addresses this gap by examining the impact of bioclimatic design on thermal comfort through fieldwork conducted at two distinct locations in the province of Málaga: Coín (rural) and Teatinos (urban). The research hypothesizes that spaces where the five fundamental pillars of bioclimatic design (urban planning, architecture, vegetation, landscaping, and materials) are well integrated tend to exhibit better thermal comfort. To test this, a Thermal Comfort Index (THI) was employed, adapted to the specific climatic conditions of the study areas, allowing a more accurate environmental performance assessment in each setting. Bioclimatic urban strategies, architectural configurations, vegetative elements, and material choices were analyzed in situ, revealing that the most thermally comfortable areas are aligned with a strong synergistic presence of all five pillars. The results support the notion that a thoughtful convergence of these principles mitigates heat stress and enhances spatial habitability in Mediterranean climates. This research contributes to current discussions on climate-resilient design by offering empirical evidence from two real-life case studies under urban and rural contexts.