A Tale of Three Zones

With the most recent renovation of Eric W. Allen Hall on the University of Oregon campus, the designers, users, and campus planners are interested in comparisons of predicted and actual thermal comfort levels. This case study serves to analyze thermal comfort in three different zones of the building. Both occupant surveys and physical measurements are utilized to collect data. Further, data will be compared to standards set by the American Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), in order to check the appropriate performance of the mechanical systems used throughout the building. Allen Hall features three distinct thermal zones, each with their own unique systems and strategies. Based on initial observation, it is hypothesized that the southeast zone, containing the most recent addition, achieves the highest level of thermal comfort. Through quantitative and qualitative analysis, this hypothesis was partially supported.

keywords: Thermal comfort, Allen Hall, Post-Occupancy Evaluation (P.O.E.)