A THESIS SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OF GRADUATE STUDIES OF ARBAMINCH UNIVERSITY IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ARCHITECTURE

Abstract

Building regulations significantly influence residential building design and functionality, particularly in maintaining indoor thermal comfort. However, their effectiveness depends on local climate, enforced strictness, and adaptability to environmental issues. Inadequate regulations lead to reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems, increasing energy costs and environmental impact. In Arba Minch, built-up areas have increased and contains a densified mixed residence with no urban ventilation space, leading to higher thermal discomfort. The objective of the research is evaluating the building regulation framework in residential buildings of Arba minch with related to indoor thermal comfort. Which the researcher identifies the building regulations that affect their indoor thermal comfort. Secondly the researcher identifies the thermal perception and building information in the study area. Lastly finding the optimal dimensions for proper ventilation was determined. The research utilizes a qualitative and quantitative research approach, with case study method. Primary data was gathered from residents, which the total house hold where 1834 and the sample size of households for questioner survey was 128 whereas the case buildings for data survey was 7 residences. Secondary data was gathered from books, journal articles and legal papers. The study found over 60% of respondents are dissatisfied with their thermal condition. To address this issue, the research recommends updating building codes of building setback and room height according to the local climate conditions. By doing so, the study area significantly improve indoor comfort, ensuring long-term compliance and sustainability as showed in the thermal simulation of a residence model reveals a temperature gradient, with cooler temperatures in the lower parts and warmer ones near the ceiling, suggesting that room height increases thermal comfort. Finally, based on the adaptive model of ASHRAE-55 and ISO-7730, the results showed that the building setback with 4m and room height 4m was taken as the optimal dimension of the building set back and room height respectively.