Feng-shui and computational fluid dynamics (CFD): Analyzing natural ventilation and human comfort

The paper explores the analogies between Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Feng-Shui by undertaking an analysis of natural ventilation in Jiangmen city, Southern China. Feng-Shui has been used to inform the orientation, layout, and design of buildings in China for thousands of years. The research questions if these concepts are still valid for contemporary building design. Noting that computational simulation methods such as CFD allow architects to analyse the natural ventilation of buildings, this paper provides a novel study that examines if Feng-Shui principles can be reconciled against contemporary design processes. The research simulates 'community', 'block', and 'single courtyard' via CFD study to confirm the scientifically measurable concepts of Feng-Shui have concerning natural ventilation. We conclude that Feng-Shui concepts enhance natural ventilation and subsequently makes a positive contribution to sustainable building and design.