A fundamental survey on the habitability of western style Residences (1920s–1930s) in Yokohama-Yamate district from the perspective of thermal environment

Western style residences in Yokohama Yamate, built in the 1920s and 1930s, hold significant historical architectural value. However, in recent years, rising vacancy rates and declining numbers have not only worsened overall residential vacancy issues but also posed a threat to the preservation of these historical buildings. Therefore, based on the premise of continued habitation, it is essential to achieve a delicate balance between historical preservation and modern residential comfort. Considering this issue, this study aimed to clarify the historical evolution of these buildings, residents’ perceptions of the thermal environment, and the current state of heating and cooling systems. Preliminary surveys were conducted to understand the historical backgrounds, current conditions, and occupancy statuses of the residences. Based on this, well-preserved and well-inhabited buildings were selected for analyses, and interviews and questionnaires were conducted, focusing on the thermal environment. The results showed that while residents commonly experienced thermal discomfort, they expressed high satisfaction with the spatial quality.