Evidence-Based Strategies for Climate Resilience in Subtropical Urban Environments: A Research Through Design (RTD) Collaboration

In response to the escalating challenges posed by climate change in subtropical urban areas, this work utilises the Research Through Design (RTD) methodology for promoting resilience and sustainability in urban environments. Based on urban microclimate modelling using advanced ENVI-met simulations, this work identified hot urban areas and informed the subsequent design process for improving urban climate outcomes. The study is focused on a local government area in South-East Queensland (Australia) and unfolds in three stages. The first stage involves evaluating the existing site’s thermal characteristics and communicating the results to professional consultants. Aligning with local council requirements and community engagement outcomes, consultants then use these insights as a foundation for drafting a new public open space and main street conceptual masterplan. In the second stage, the proposed masterplan undergoes urban climate analysis through ENVI-met simulation to assess the impact of the proposal on the resulting urban microclimate and the thermal comfort of public space users. The results from this stage guide subsequent iterative improvements, identifying areas for enhancement and further consideration. In the third and final stage, consultants incorporate these findings into a refined masterplan that aligns with council guidelines and community requirements while prioritising thermal comfort, resilience, and sustainability. This work contributes to evidence-based urban design and planning, emphasising the importance of integrating climate-responsive strategies into the early stages of the consultation, design, and urban planning processes. It demonstrates the benefits of a dynamic and iterative approach, where computer-based simulations guide each design stage, ensuring that the final urban design and planning outcome complies with regulatory frameworks and enhances the overall well-being of users of public spaces and surrounding urban environments. Using the RTD methodology, this work presents a solid and replicable framework for addressing climate challenges in various urban contexts.