Investigation of the effect of kinetic facade systems on building effıciency and user comfort

Today, the ability of buildings to adapt to environmental conditions holds critical importance in terms of sustainable and high-performance architectural approaches. In this context, kinetic systems stand out as a dynamic element of architectural design. Since the era of primitive shelters, structures developed by humankind have evolved not only into protective spaces but also into intelligent systems capable of responding to environmental variables. Especially, technological advancements such as mechanical engineering, computer-aided control systems, and next-generation building materials have enhanced the applicability of kinetic architecture; transforming architecture from a static object into an organism that interacts with its surroundings.Kinetic architecture is a design approach developed with the focus of integrating motion functions into building components by utilizing the conveniences offered by continuously developing technology. At the core of this approach lies environmental sensitivity and the ability to adapt to the changing conditions it generates. Kinetic qualities in architecture aim to achieve ideal efficiency standards through this acquired sense of adaptation and responsiveness. As the primary interface that responds to environmental conditions, façades emerge as the building component with the greatest potential for kinetic architectural applications.In recent façade trends, extensive use of glass has been observed, driven by aesthetic concerns. Although glass technology continues to develop, there are still frequent instances where it fails to adequately respond to varying climatic conditions. This study aims to examine and improve the effects of kinetic façades—an essential component of kinetic architecture—on building efficiency and user comfort. In line with this goal, an experimental project was developed focusing on kinetic façade systems that would support comfort conditions and building performance in hot climate regions.The project was conducted on a pilot building selected from the city of Diyarbakır. Climatic data specific to Diyarbakır were obtained from the software Climate Consultant and supported by archived data from the Turkish State Meteorological Service. Based on these data, the most critical period of the year was identified, and performance analysis was conducted for this time frame. To enhance user comfort conditions with an aesthetic approach, a movable façade system was proposed. Both the existing and proposed façade systems were modeled in Rhinoceros, and simulations were performed using the Grasshopper, Ladybug, and Honeybee plugins. According to the analyses conducted, it was observed that the kinetic façade system had a more positive impact on user comfort compared to the existing façade design. In this context, the proposed kinetic façade system is evaluated as a more effective and functional solution for enhancing user comfort.