childsplay.: Local Climate and Design - Toronto

Tues May 5, 2009

Wind rose - you are right, in the centre of the city how consistent are the winds? They are affected by tall buildings, concrete heat sinks and densely packed buildings. However, in Toronto and at 27 Farnham, we are blessed to be far enough away from the tall buildings, surrounded by tall deciduous trees and on the ridge of the glacial Lake Iroquois shoreline and therefore a bit above the density at the roof terrace level. The wind patterns are basically the same as before the city was built. Northwest prevailing wind is cooling and freezing. Occasional breezes from south west feel tropical, in summer only. Southeast winds bring rain and violent thunderstorms. We don't get nor'easters like the east coast. That's it, unless you can add to these.
Therefore, our north terrace provides a place to sit outside and be cooled from the prevailing northwest breeze in the summer and to enjoy the sunset. The south terrace is protected from the cooling wind by the studio structure and receives direct sunshine - this is where we warm. In the winter we are in the studio, protected from the weather and perhaps warmed with a fireplace.
We should always be able to access the roof of the studio for the fabulous panorama and to experience the wind/breeze from any direction.
Include these spaces in the design.
Bill
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