Thermal comfort in social housing: A case study from Türkiye’s hot and dry region

This study examines thermal comfort and satisfaction in TOKI Etiler, a social housing project in Gaziantep constructed by the Turkish Mass Housing Administration (TOKI). Focusing on six high-rise blocks in this project, the research evaluates the current state of social housing in hot and dry climate conditions. Thermal comfort is identified as a critical factor in improving residents’ quality of life. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study incorporates in-depth interviews with residents, unit observations, thermal imaging, and statistical analysis using SPSS. The findings underscore significant thermal discomfort, particularly in top-floor units of the 12-story buildings, with dissatisfaction peaking at 45.9% in August. Thermal comfort perceptions also varied based on household size, highlighting the need for tailored solutions. To improve thermal performance, the study proposes strategies such as minimizing excessive heat gain, implementing passive systems like shading devices, and harnessing solar energy. Inspired by the region's vernacular architecture, incorporating water features in outdoor spaces is also recommended to enhance evaporation and cooling. Furthermore, the study identifies thermal bridges in building envelopes and calls for better insulation alongside environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic and petroleum-based construction materials, which pose risks to both human health and the environment. By analyzing the unique climatic challenges of Gaziantep and residents' adaptive behaviors, this research offers a comprehensive evaluation of indoor environmental conditions in the TOKI Etiler project. The findings contribute valuable insights into climate-responsive housing solutions for hot and dry regions.