Thermal Comfort and Energy Performance of a Retrofitted Glazed Healthcare Space Under Future Climate Scenarios: Integrated Field Measurements and Dynamic Simulation

Climate change is expected to increase the overheating risk and cooling demand in buildings. This study investigates the thermal comfort and energy performance of a retrofitted glazed healthcare space using an integrated approach combining long-term field measurements with validated dynamic energy simulation. The analysed space, originally an external terrace later enclosed for medical use, is characterised by a high glazing ratio and substantial solar exposure. Continuous in situ measurements of indoor air temperature, relative humidity, and CO₂ concentration were conducted during winter and summer periods. Thermal comfort and indoor air quality were assessed according to international standards. A calibrated EnergyPlus model was used to evaluate performance under present (TMY) and future (2050, 2080) climate scenarios. The results show frequent overheating under current conditions, with peak operative temperatures exceeding 30 °C and comfort maintained for as little as 41% of the summertime in highly exposed zones. By 2080, overheating will intensify (up to 33 °C in simulations), while the cooling demand will nearly double (from 14 to 29 kWh/m²). Hybrid ventilation cooling strategies reduce cooling demand by up to 39% and maintain acceptable comfort for up to 78% of annual hours. The findings highlight the critical role of solar protection, hybrid control, and vegetation in improving the climate resilience of glazed healthcare spaces.