Evaluation of Environmental Factors in Midrise Apartments. A Case of Capital Square Building in B-17 Islamabad

Abstract

Worldwide demand for shelter and housing has grown significantly because of fast population increase and urbanization especially since more than 50% of people now live in cities. Urban areas benefit from the implementation of midrise and high-rise apartments as a housing shortage solution because they use advanced construction materials and vertical development. These building structures achieve space optimization but they ignore local environmental factors and socio-cultural needs which results in occupant dissatisfaction. This research examines the environmental performance of midrise residential buildings in Islamabad, Pakistan through Capital Square B-17 in Sector B-17 which shows rapid urban development to determine occupant satisfaction regarding building comfort and ventilation alongside lighting conditions and safety practices. The research utilized both questionnaires and observational studies with 120 occupant participants to establish substantial users feedback. Thermal comfort along with acoustics provided acceptable results but failed natural lighting and cross-ventilation and poor indoor air quality integration led to reduced living quality in the explored towers. These shortcomings in the residential units did not deter occupants from staying due to the lack of housing alternatives and lower rental expenses. The authors recommend constructing better ventilated windows and installing fire alarms along with improved evacuation layouts and improved common areas. Future apartment development plans need to adopt environmental and user-centered design principles to produce sustainable housing solutions for fast-growing urban areas of Pakistan.