Hirda Khalid
Indoor Overheating Risks: Window Design Framework for Multi-Unit Urban Dwellings
Climate change is intensifying hot summers and heatwaves, increasing the risk of indoor overheating in urban housing. Multi-unit dwellings are particularly vulnerable, as occupants have fewer options to adapt compared to those in single-family homes. In dense urban areas, concerns such as privacy, security, and exposure to air and noise pollution, which termed as Window Usability Factors, further restrict the use of windows for ventilation, worsening thermal discomfort.
Hirda's research investigates operable window design as a passive cooling strategy for multi-unit dwellings. The study documents common window configurations found in new housing developments and applies simulation-based testing to evaluate and enhance airflow performance. Through iterative analysis, a window catalogue is developed to guide architects and designers in selecting configurations that improve indoor comfort while considering the constraints of urban living.
The proposed framework contributes to climate-resilient housing design by supporting low-energy approaches to cooling, particularly for low-income households who cannot afford air-conditioning. By integrating practical window design solutions into the early stages of housing design, this work aims to improve thermal comfort in multi-unit dwellings and reduce overheating risks under a warming climate.
Supervisors
Dr Michael Donn & Professor Joanna Merwood-Salisbury
Qualifications
Master of Science in Architecture (Energy-efficient Building Design), Universiti Sains Malaysia (2012)
Bachelor of Architecture, Universiti Sains Malaysia (2009)
Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Housing, Building and Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia (2007)
Publications
Khalid, H. L., et al. (2024). Lessons learned from calibrating the simulation model using measured data. Proceedings of the International Conference of the Architectural Science Association.
Khalid, H. L., et al. (2025). "Systematic literature review on the barriers to using operable windows for passive cooling." Advances in Building Energy Research: 1-28.
Conferences
57th International Conference of the Architectural Science Association (ANZAScA) 26 – 29 Nov 2024, Gold Coast, Australia.
Awards
Finalist, VUW PGSA 3MT: Three Minute Thesis 2023.