ABSTRACT
In acting as a filter between internal and external environments, the building enclosure modifies the climate not only in terms of heat, light and sound, but psychological factors as well. Several different effects of designandmaterial solutions canbe included. In broad terms, they can be presented as forces leading to certain behaviour, for instance complaining, or as modifiers of certain perceptions – normally related to physiological responses. The desire to achieve comfort, or more precisely to avoid discomfort, is perceived as a powerful motivational drive supported by a sophisticated psycho-physiological control system.
