A Systematic Review of Kinetic Architecture as a Strategy for Improving Thermal Comfort in Office Buildings in Hot-Dry Climates

This study employs a systematic literature review (SLR) to assess the impact of kinetic architecture on thermal comfort in various buildings, with a focus on offices in hot-dry climates. Comprehensive searches were done using Google Scholar, Semantic Scholar, and Scopus, respectively, applying the PRISMA method. The search yielded a selection of 109 relevant articles spanning from 2008 to 2024. The study's findings examine how kinetic façades help mitigate the issues in hot, dry climates, where prolonged exposure to the sun and rapid temperature fluctuations are common. Simulation tools are the preferred method for evaluating the performance of kinetic systems. Such systems are especially important in hot and dry regions because they help control solar radiation, ventilation, and thermal comfort, thereby decreasing energy usage while ensuring comfort inside buildings. In dry areas with extreme temperature fluctuations and limited water or energy resources, these systems can enhance natural ventilation, encourage nighttime cooling, and automatically provide shade to buildings during intense sunlight. The reviewed literature gap is that relevant studies often rely solely on simulations, resulting in limited experimental validation in real-world contexts. This study suggests that large-scale experiments are necessary to assess the practicality and durability of kinetic façades.