Investigation of the environmental performance of a transitional space in a UK nursery school

This field study aims to improve the understanding of microclimates with architectural features – known as transitional spaces – which influence both the indoor and outdoor environment. The Early Years Centre in London uses canopy spaces to provide an environmental shelter while minimising the disturbance from unwanted weather. Environmental measurements and simulations were performed with regard to thermal comfort and daylight. The fieldwork identifies the diverse environmental roles of the transitional space for both outdoor and indoor spaces and how the application of such spaces can make environmental conditions in schools better or worse. The issues raised during the fieldwork suggest a need to develop design strategies in order to improve the environmental conditions of transitional outdoor spaces and adjacent indoor classrooms.