Wind Mitigation Part 2: Urban & Landscape Strategies

Introduction

In the previous article, we explored how building design plays a pivotal role in managing wind effects around tall structures. From rounded façades to podiums and setbacks, these architectural elements help mitigate the impact of wind on pedestrian safety and comfort. However, the design of the surrounding spaces is just as crucial in ensuring a harmonious urban environment.

This article shifts the focus to urban planning and landscaping solutions for wind mitigation. By thoughtfully designing public spaces, incorporating natural and structural windbreaks, and adjusting building layouts, cities can create safe, comfortable, and functional outdoor areas that complement the architectural strategies of tall buildings.

Understanding the Wind-Pedestrian Interaction

Tall buildings dramatically alter natural wind flows, creating localized phenomena that directly affect pedestrians:

• Tunneling Effect: Narrow spaces between buildings funnel air, accelerating wind to uncomfortable or dangerous speeds.

• Canyon Winds: Streets flanked by tall structures channel wind into linear pathways, intensifying its force.

• Gust Zones: Irregular airflow around building edges creates unpredictable gusts, posing hazards for pedestrians and cyclists.

These wind effects can undermine the usability of public spaces, making them less safe and comfortable for everyday activities. Effective urban planning can address these challenges, transforming affected areas into pleasant environments for people to gather, move, and interact.

Picture n. 1: Tunneling Effect Between two high rise buildings.

Key Mitigation Strategies for Surrounding Spaces

Public Space Design

Sheltered courtyards provide calm zones protected from high wind speeds by enclosing or partially enclosing the space. These areas offer pedestrians a safe haven from strong gusts. Spacing buildings farther apart helps wind flow more naturally through city streets instead of becoming concentrated and gusty. This thoughtful planning helps keep public spaces comfortable for everyone.

Landscaping and Green Features

Trees and hedges serve as natural barriers, disrupting and slowing down airflow to reduce ground-level gusts. Dense vegetation enhances pedestrian comfort and safety. Green buffers, such as landscaped zones or planted areas, help absorb and diffuse wind forces. These features also add aesthetic and environmental value to urban spaces.

Urban Planning Adjustments

Adjusting building layouts to deflect prevailing winds or to reduce alignment with streets further minimizes wind intensification, improving the pedestrian experience.

Wind-Breaking Features

Retractable barriers provide a flexible solution for areas with variable wind conditions. They can be deployed as needed to create temporary windbreaks. Strategically placed screens and fences diffuse airflow and reduce gust strength. These features improve the usability and safety of public spaces in high-wind environments.

Picture n. 2-3: Average Wind Speed before and after placing trees in critical areas .