The Importance of Thermal Comfort in Dormitory Design

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 149 views

Introduction

The rapid development of the University of North Sumatra (USU) has led to an increase in the number of students studying on campus. Every year, more and more students from various regions flow to the USU Padang Bulan region, causing the area to become dense and less regular. To meet the needs of student residences, the development of 300 hectares of land in Kwala Bekala is being carried out. Student dormitories play a crucial role not only as a place to live but also as a forum to support non-academic activities. With the right design, the dormitory can provide space for sports activities, the development of interests and talents, as well as fostering student personality.

The Importance of Thermal Comfort in Dormitory Design

Thermal comfort is a very decisive factor in creating a healthy and productive environment for students. Discomfort temperature can cause a decrease in learning concentration and negative impacts on health. Therefore, the design of the dormitory must consider factors such as building orientation, the material used, and the ventilation system. A well-designed dormitory can provide a comfortable atmosphere, which is essential for students to focus on their studies and develop their talents.

Design Strategy to Achieve Thermal Comfort

To achieve thermal comfort, the following design strategies can be applied:

Building Orientation

The placement of the right building can maximize the reception of sunlight and wind. By pointing the window and ventilation in the right direction, the temperature in the room can be kept cool. A building that is oriented correctly can reduce the need for air conditioning and minimize the use of electrical energy.

The Use of Environmentally Friendly Materials

Materials that have good insulation capabilities can help maintain indoor temperatures. For example, the use of natural building materials and does not absorb heat can be an effective solution. The use of environmentally friendly materials can also reduce the carbon footprint of the dormitory and contribute to a sustainable environment.

Natural Ventilation

Utilizing natural air flow with a design that allows good air circulation will help cool the room without relying on air conditioning. Natural lighting must also be considered, so that the room is not only comfortable but also healthy. Natural ventilation can also improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of respiratory problems.

Positive Impact of Thermal Comfort-Based Design

By applying the principles of thermal comfort, student dormitories in USU Kwala Bekala will not only provide a comfortable place to live, but also support learning activities and social interaction between students. Comfortable space will encourage students to be more active in campus activities, both academic and non-academic. A well-designed dormitory can also contribute to the development of students' character and talents, which is essential for their future success.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the design of student dormitories at the University of North Sumatra in Kwala Bekala must pay close attention to aspects of thermal comfort. With the right approach, the dormitory will not only be a place to live, but also an environment that supports the development of students' character and talents. In the long run, this will contribute to the quality of education and development of human resources in Indonesia. A well-designed dormitory can also serve as a model for sustainable and environmentally friendly design, which can be applied to other buildings and communities.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations can be made:

The design of student dormitories in USU Kwala Bekala should prioritize thermal comfort and sustainability.
The use of environmentally friendly materials and natural ventilation should be encouraged.
The building orientation and layout should be designed to maximize the reception of sunlight and wind.
The dormitory should be designed to provide a comfortable and healthy environment for students.

By following these recommendations, the design of student dormitories in USU Kwala Bekala can provide a comfortable and sustainable environment for students, which is essential for their academic and personal development.

Q: What is the importance of thermal comfort in dormitory design?

A: Thermal comfort is a very decisive factor in creating a healthy and productive environment for students. Discomfort temperature can cause a decrease in learning concentration and negative impacts on health. Therefore, the design of the dormitory must consider factors such as building orientation, the material used, and the ventilation system.

Q: What are the design strategies to achieve thermal comfort?

A: To achieve thermal comfort, the following design strategies can be applied:

Building orientation: The placement of the right building can maximize the reception of sunlight and wind.
The use of environmentally friendly materials: Materials that have good insulation capabilities can help maintain indoor temperatures.
Natural ventilation: Utilizing natural air flow with a design that allows good air circulation will help cool the room without relying on air conditioning.

Q: What are the benefits of natural ventilation in dormitory design?

A: Natural ventilation can improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of respiratory problems. It can also reduce the need for air conditioning and minimize the use of electrical energy.

Q: How can the use of environmentally friendly materials contribute to thermal comfort?

A: The use of environmentally friendly materials can help maintain indoor temperatures and reduce the carbon footprint of the dormitory. It can also contribute to a sustainable environment.

Q: What are the positive impacts of thermal comfort-based design?

A: By applying the principles of thermal comfort, student dormitories in USU Kwala Bekala will not only provide a comfortable place to live, but also support learning activities and social interaction between students. Comfortable space will encourage students to be more active in campus activities, both academic and non-academic.

Q: How can a well-designed dormitory contribute to the development of students' character and talents?

A: A well-designed dormitory can provide a comfortable and healthy environment for students, which is essential for their academic and personal development. It can also serve as a model for sustainable and environmentally friendly design, which can be applied to other buildings and communities.

Q: What are the recommendations for designing student dormitories in USU Kwala Bekala?

A: The design of student dormitories in USU Kwala Bekala should prioritize thermal comfort and sustainability. The use of environmentally friendly materials and natural ventilation should be encouraged. The building orientation and layout should be designed to maximize the reception of sunlight and wind.

Q: How can the design of student dormitories in USU Kwala Bekala contribute to the quality of education and development of human resources in Indonesia?

A: A well-designed dormitory can provide a comfortable and sustainable environment for students, which is essential for their academic and personal development. It can also serve as a model for sustainable and environmentally friendly design, which can be applied to other buildings and communities.