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Design with Microclimate: The Secret to Comfortable Outdoor Space

Design with Microclimate: The Secret to Comfortable Outdoor Space


$30.00

  • Format: Trade Paperback
  • 192 pages
  • Publisher: Island Press
  • Published: September 2010
  • ISBN-10: 1597267406
  • ISBN-13: 9781597267403

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Description
Robert Brown helps us see that a 'thermally comfortable microclimate' is the very foundation of well-designed and well-used outdoor places. Brown argues that as we try to minimize human-induced changes to the climate and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels-as some areas become warmer, some cooler, some wetter, and some drier, and all become more expensive to regulate-good microclimate design will become increasingly important. In the future, according to Brown, all designers will need to understand climatic issues and be able to respond to their challenges. Brown describes the effects that climate has on outdoor spaces-using vivid illustrations and examples-while providing practical tools that can be used in everyday design practice. The heart of the book is Brown's own design process, as he provides useful guidelines that lead designers clearly through the complexity of climate data, precedents, site assessment, microclimate modification, communication, design, and evaluation. Brown strikes an ideal balance of technical information, anecdotes, examples, and illustrations to keep the book engaging and accessible. His emphasis throughout is on creating microclimates that attend to the comfort, health, and well-being of people, animals, and plants. 'Design with Microclimate' is a vital resource for students and practitioners in landscape architecture, architecture, planning, and urban design. 'Design with Microclimate' argues that, as the climate changes and fuels become increasingly expensive, appropriate design of outdoor spaces will become critical. In this practical, informative book, Robert Brown uses vivid illustrations and examples and provides practical tools that can be used in everyday design practice. The heart of the book is Brown's own design process, as he includes useful guidelines to lead designers clearly through the complexity of climate data, precedents, site assessment, microclimate modification, communication, design, and evaluation. Brown strikes an ideal balance of technical information, anecdotes, examples, and illustrations to keep the book engaging and accessible. His emphasis throughout is on creating microclimates that attend to the comfort, health, and well-being of people, animals, and plants.
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