Microclimatic adaptability of alleyway in historical cultural heritage buildings based on ENVI-met simulations

Rising global temperatures have worsened climatic conditions, reducing human habitat comfort, especially in hot and humid regions. Yet historical and cultural heritage buildings achieve comfortable microclimates without active climate control. This study uses field measurements and ENVI-met simulations to identify passive climate adaptation strategies in such buildings in China’s hot and humid areas, aiming to inform design in similar climates. Results show that: (1) alleyways significantly improve courtyard microclimates; (2) through-type alleyways enhance summer conditions by promoting airflow; (3) microclimate benefits are greatest when the Aspect Ratio (AR) is below 0.5; (4) enclosed courtyards with solid-boundary alleyways perform best in microclimate regulation.