As global temperatures rise, multifamily buildings in Honolulu that lack air conditioning are expected to become significantly less comfortable—posing major challenges for residents and designers alike. A new study contributed to by Associate Professor Wendy Meguro projects that thermal comfort in these unconditioned buildings could decline by as much as 42% by 2080 if no design or policy interventions are made.
The research, which evaluates how climate change will affect indoor temperatures and livability in multifamily housing, emphasizes the urgent need for adaptive building strategies in Hawaiʻi’s urban environments.
The study explores passive cooling solutions, material responses, and long-term planning to ensure resilient and equitable housing. “The findings on poorer thermal comfort negatively impact health and productivity, particularly for populations who cannot afford air conditioning,” said Meguro.