Research on the Optimization of Selecting Traditional Dwellings Patio Renovation Measures in Hot Summer and Cold Winter Zone Based on Thermal Comfort and Energy Consumption

Abstract

Patio-style dwellings are a highly representative category of traditional dwellings in the Yangtze River Delta region of China. As a crucial climate-adjusting space for traditional dwellings in the hot summer and cold winter zone, patios have long been the focus of practice and research in traditional dwelling renovation. Previous studies have mostly focused on how the shape and scale of patios affect their performance in terms of ventilation, lighting, and thermal environment; however, there is a lack of research on how patio renovation measures influence the thermal comfort of spaces surrounding patios. Based on the two goals of improving the thermal comfort of the general hall space and reducing the overall building energy consumption, this paper takes the patio renovation of Huaigengtang Dwelling as a case study. We use the Design Builder (v7.0.2.006) simulation software to analyze the impact of 10 selected patio measures on thermal comfort and energy consumption and adopt the entropy weight method to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the indicators for thermal comfort improvement and energy consumption reduction. The quantitative simulation is divided into two scenarios: one where the patio maintains natural ventilation, and the other where the patio is renovated into an enclosed space with split-type air conditioners used for cooling and heating. We select a single patio renovation measure and a combined patio renovation measure based on the values of the comprehensive scores. Regarding the application of the selected optimal measures, and in combination with the dual needs of functional improvement and performance enhancement in traditional dwelling renovation practice, this paper analyzes the corresponding relationships between three types of functional improvement—inheritance-type renovation, optimization-type renovation and replacement-type renovation—and the two performance evaluation indicators, namely thermal comfort improvement and energy consumption reduction, so as to propose the optimal recommendation schemes for different renovation scenarios.

1. Introduction

With the rapid development of rural revitalization and rural economy in China, the functional form and environmental quality of traditional dwellings have increasingly conflicted with modern living standards. On one hand, traditional dwellings serve as an important carrier of traditional lifestyles and cultural customs. However, due to their age and the lack of maintenance, these traditional dwellings often fail to meet or adapt to the current modes of production and social life. This is particularly evident in the economically developed Yangtze River Delta region, where rural tourism has seen significant growth, and a large number of traditional dwellings have achieved functional improvements and enhanced comfort levels through renovation. On the other hand, China’s “dual carbon” goals and action plans require that urban and rural buildings must implement the requirements of energy conservation and low-carbon development. The Yangtze River Delta is located in a hot summer and cold winter zone, where residential renovation has led to the widespread use of air conditioning and heating systems, significantly increasing operational energy consumption [1]. Therefore, under the guidance of national policies for rural revitalization and the “dual carbon” goals, and on the premise of improving residential comfort, it is particularly crucial to reduce operational energy consumption through optimal passive energy-saving measures.

Patio-style dwellings are a highly representative category among Chinese traditional dwellings and have been an ideal form of building in ancient China that continues to this day. As an outdoor space within the building, the patio naturally transitions the internal space of the building to the external space, fulfilling the functions of lighting, ventilation, moisture-proofing, and fire prevention and regulating the local thermal environment of the building. While meeting people’s living needs, etiquette, and cultural requirements, the patio has also been preserved as a typical ecological space in Chinese traditional dwellings. To protect and inherit these dwellings, driven by the government and capital in the Yangtze River Delta region, a large number of patio-style dwellings have been renovated around the patio space based on development needs and regional characteristics, resulting in a number of excellent green renovation cases of traditional dwellings. There is an urgent need for us to deeply explore the commonly used energy-saving measures and verify their effectiveness.

In terms of research, thermal environment and thermal comfort have become important factors that cannot be ignored in exploring the green and low-carbon renovation of traditional dwellings. The main research on the thermal environment and thermal comfort of patios or courtyards by international scholars includes the following: through modeling and analysis of the historic center of Camagüey, Cuba, it was confirmed that the three-dimensional aspect ratio of different courtyards affects the outdoor thermal environment [2]; an investigation into the thermal comfort conditions of courtyards in the Middle East summarized factors influencing their thermal environment, including geometry, methods of generating airflow, evaporative cooling, and the placement of windows and vegetation [3]; simulations of the thermal performance of courtyards in Malaysia [4] explored the relationship between building height ratios, the abundance of courtyard vegetation, and thermal comfort levels [5]; and design factors of patios, such as albedo [6], shading devices [7], tree configuration [8], and corridors [9], are associated with improved outdoor thermal comfort. Additionally, some studies focus on the relationship between the thermal performance of courtyards and the roof forms of surrounding buildings. For example, research on the natural cooling effect of long-wave radiation in courtyard houses showed that sloped roofs did not promote air sinking from above the patio into the courtyard [10]. Patios with transparent roofs can store significant thermal energy in winter, serving as a heat source within the building [10].

Research on the thermal environment and thermal comfort of patios or courtyards by domestic scholars primarily includes the following: Shi Feng et al. studied multi-courtyard dwellings in Fuzhou, conducting a comparative analysis of the impact of courtyard geometric forms on the building’s wind environment [11]; Hao Shimeng et al. found, through testing, that patio spaces significantly reduce peak daytime air temperatures [12]; and Liang Jiahui et al. suggested that patios in Lingnan traditional buildings, such as Xiguan mansions, play a role in natural ventilation and daylighting [13]. Yu Zhe studied the ventilation design and application of patios in modern buildings in Guangzhou through a combination of field measurement and simulation and summarized several experiences of patios in ventilation design [14]. Wu Yaqi proposed that the patio is a representative buffer space in traditional buildings in hot and humid areas. With the help of software simulation, she analyzed patio forms with different length–width ratios and put forward the advantages and disadvantages of patios in terms of solar radiation heat gain and ventilation heat gain in addition to natural ventilation [15]. Chen Xialin studied the thermal environment regulation mechanism of patios by focusing on analyzing the impact of several main factors such as solar radiation, natural ventilation, and water evaporation on the regulation of patio thermal environment, and optimized the design of patio orientation, height, and length–width ratio [16]. Jia Shanghong et al. proposed that artificially closing the patio can reduce the building shape coefficient and achieve more obvious energy-saving effects; however, it will also affect the original natural ventilation performance of the patio in the transition season. Taking the renovated closed patio as an example, they used CFD simulation to simulate the indoor wind environment of the original patio and the ventilation performance of the closed patio under different window opening positions and finally studied the impact of the closed patio on the indoor wind environment and compared the optimized design schemes [17]. Li Jianyong conducted an analysis of the environment, layout, and functionality of a case without a patio, and simulated the indoor ventilation under two conditions: with and without a patio [18]. Sun Qianqian et al. studied the embedded patio space morphology in arcade-style dwellings and simulated the effects of different top opening methods, sectional shapes, and height-to-depth ratios of the patio on the indoor and outdoor thermal environment [19].

The above studies evaluated the thermal performance or thermal comfort of patios or courtyards themselves in buildings, achieving certain results in the research on the thermal performance of patio or courtyard spaces. However, research on the thermal performance or thermal comfort of the main spaces around the patio, that is, how patio renovation measures affect the spaces around the patio, is still relatively lacking. Especially in the hot summer and cold winter zone, due to its unique climatic characteristics, patio renovation faces multiple complex challenges in improving thermal comfort and energy conservation. An open patio can take away indoor heat in summer by enhancing natural ventilation, but it can also reduce room temperature in winter due to natural ventilation; the renovation measure of a closed patio is not conducive to natural ventilation but can reduce air conditioning energy consumption. At the same time, previous studies on the evaluation of patio renovation measures are mostly limited to quantitative analysis of the single renovation goal of thermal environment improvement [20]. Therefore, there is an urgent need to propose a quantitative evaluation method for patio renovation measures that balances the dual objectives of “thermal comfort and energy consumption” in the hot summer and cold winter zone, integrating traditional architectural preservation with patio renovation characteristics. This approach will help verify the suitability and effectiveness of current renovation measures and provide technical support for energy-saving renovations of traditional dwellings in the Yangtze River Delta region.

2. Research Object and Method

2.1. Research Object

2.1.1. Practical Cases and Scope of Application

All 58 practical cases of patio renovation extracted in this paper are selected from the hot summer and cold winter zone in China. The renovation practices of traditional dwellings in this climatic zone share good common characteristics in terms of climate-adaptive technical strategies.

The scope of application for the optimized patio renovation measures extracted in this paper is northern Zhejiang Province. This region boasts a prosperous economy, and people generally have higher requirements for residential quality. However, the existing thermal environment of traditional dwellings in this area can no longer meet modern residential needs, laying a solid practical foundation for the research on the renovation of traditional dwellings.

2.1.2. Measured Object

Regarding the characteristics of dwellings in northern Zhejiang, Lin Tong [21] found in his research that the planar form best reflects the characteristics of dwellings in this region. He summarized the planar forms of traditional dwellings in northern Zhejiang into five major categories, and through the kernel density map of planar form distribution, he revealed that patio-style dwellings have the widest distribution and are the most common in northern Zhejiang, thus possessing high representativeness.

In this paper, Huaigengtang Dwelling (the name of this traditional dwelling) located in Tonglu County, northern Zhejiang Province, is taken as the measured object. There are two reasons for selecting this measured object: First, Tonglu County is situated in northern Zhejiang, where the climate is cold, damp in winter, and extremely hot in summer. Especially in July and August (the midsummer), the daytime temperature can reach above 38 °C, representing the typical climatic characteristics of this climatic zone. Second, the planar form of Huaigengtang Dwelling is the patio-style dwelling, which accounts for the highest proportion in northern Zhejiang.

Huaigengtang Dwelling was built in the 1930s, with a total building area of 347 square meters. Figure 1 shows the floor plan of Huaigengtang Dwelling, measured by the research team, and the on-site photos of the patio formed by the four sides. The width-to-depth ratio of this patio is approximately 2:1, which is a typical tall and narrow patio in this area. In the days when there was no air conditioning in the past, the patios not only blocked the scorching sun in summer but also promoted indoor ventilation through heat pressure and wind pressure, reflecting the traditional wisdom of the local dwellings to adapt to the harsh climate of hot summer and cold winter with patios.

The building is a traditional brick–wood structure, and the patio maintains the original open condition. After the partitions on both sides of the south hall were removed, the dining space became more spacious. As shown in Figure 1, the spatial division defines the patio as an outdoor space, while the bedrooms, research, and other rooms are indoor spaces. The continuous space surrounding the patio, which lies between the indoor and outdoor zone, is collectively referred to as the general hall space. This semi-indoor, semi-outdoor space, with its multifunctional use, serves as a common area for family activities and social interactions in traditional dwellings. It is also a space that organically integrates people with nature.

2.1.3. Wet and Hot Environment Measurement Issues

The hottest months in Tonglu County, where Huaigengtang Dwelling is located, are typically July or August, with average monthly temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 °C. Therefore, on 1 August 2024, the research team conducted on-site measurements of temperature and relative humidity in Huaigengtang Dwelling to investigate the thermal environment issues in the living spaces during a typical day of the hottest month. Through interviews with residents, it was found that the main activity spaces during the summer are the first-floor general hall space and the second-floor northern bedrooms. The team used multiple portable electronic temperature and humidity recorders to conduct field measurements and analysis of temperature and relative humidity in the first-floor general hall space and the second-floor bedrooms of Huaigengtang Dwelling (specific measurement points are shown in Figure 1). Measurement results show that under the condition of natural ventilation, the average temperature of the general hall space throughout a day is 32.4 °C, with the highest temperature being 38.8 °C, the lowest temperature being 30.1 °C, and an average temperature of 34.3 °C on that day, and the average humidity is 64.9%. The bedroom had an average temperature of 34.4 °C, and an average humidity of 58.2%. The average temperature of the test objects is higher than the requirement of 26 °C in the summer of the “Evaluation Standard for Indoor Thermal and Humid Environment of Civil Buildings” GB/T 50785-2012 [22]. The average humidity of the general hall space exceeds 60% of the requirement of the “Standard”, and the average humidity of the bedroom is close to the standard.

Overall, the thermal and humid environment in the bedroom is relatively better, as it has air conditioning, which is used at night to regulate the thermal and humid environment. The general hall space, where residents spend most of their daytime hours, has a poor thermal and humid environment, as relying solely on the patio’s natural temperature regulation and fans no longer meets the residents’ needs.

2.1.4. Building the Model

The article uses Design Builder (the version is v7.0.2.006, hereinafter referred to as DB) energy consumption simulation software to establish the model for Huaigengtang Dwelling. DB was chosen because it has comprehensive parameter settings for thermal comfort and can simulate temperature, humidity, thermal comfort, and energy consumption data [23].

In the DB software (v7.0.2.006), we establish the architectural model of Huaigengtang Dwelling, setting up three levels from large to small: Building, Block, and Zone (

Table 1. Huaigengtang Dwelling Design Builder modeling (original model). (Chart source: self-drawn by the research team).

Hierarchy	Building	Block	Zone
Schematic diagram of the model

). Here, building refers to simulated buildings, block generally represents a floor, and zone denotes a room within a floor. In the zone level, specific details such as door and window openings, floors, ceilings, and interior walls are set up.

During modeling, the building climate environment is loaded onto the data of typical meteorological years in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, Chinese Standard Weather Data, CSWD. The energy use status is based on the use of electric air split-type conditioning for cooling and heating, without considering the energy consumption generated by the occupants inside the building and hot water consumption.

2.1.5. Important Parameters

(1) Thermal Parameters of the Building Envelope

Huaigengtang Dwelling is a two-story brick–wood structure. Based on the actual research situation and the built-in material database in the DB, the enclosure structure is set up to meet the specification requirements for thermal insulation and heat preservation. The specific material settings and heat transfer coefficients of the structural layer are shown in

Table 2. Material setting and thermal parameters of Huaigengtang Dwelling enclosure structure. (Chart source: self-drawn by the research team).

Enclosure Structure Type	Structural Layer Materials (From the Outside to the Inside)	Thickness (mm)	Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K)	Thermal Resistance (m2·K/W)	Heat Transfer Coefficient (W/m2·K)	Current Situation Picture Illustration
Exterior wall	Cement mortar	30	0.930	0.032	1.445
	Blue brick	310	0.810	0.383
	Cement mortar	30	0.930	0.032
Exterior window	Wooden window frame	20	/	/	2.97
	Single-layer glass	6	0.900	0.007	3.779
Pitched roof	Blue tiles	25	1.000	0.025	1.614
	Fir rafters	20	/	/
	Clay	40	0.810	0.049
	Waterproof layer	5	0.170	0.029
	Guard plate ash	10	0.810	0.012
	Wood-plastic board	20	0.120	0.167
Interior wall	Cement mortar plastering	20	0.930	0.022	1.087
	Fir wood board	60	0.120	0.500
	Cement mortar plastering	20	0.930	0.022
Floor slab	Decorative layer	20	/	/	0.906
	Fir wood board	80	0.120	0.833

.

(2) Indoor Occupant Activity Status

According to the field survey, five people currently live in the Huaigengtang Dwelling, including two elderly, two middle-aged, and one young person. In the summer, the main activity spaces are the first-floor living room, dining room, and the second-floor northern bedroom. The research team investigated the room usage status during weekdays and weekends and obtained data on the indoor occupancy per room throughout the day.

(3) Air Conditioning Equipment Usage

It was learned through interviews that residents in northern Zhejiang currently generally use split-type air conditioners for cooling in summer and heating in winter. However, there are seasonal differences in their usage: extreme high-temperature weather occurs frequently in summer, especially in July and August, which coincides with the summer vacation period. The return of student groups to their hometowns to live significantly increases the intensity of air conditioner usage, and the electricity bills of households in July and August often reach the annual peak. In winter, residents mostly adopt warmth-preserving measures such as adding clothes and quilts and using hot water bags. In addition, due to the trend of warm winters in recent years, the increase in demand for air conditioner heating is relatively moderate. According to the Design Standard for Energy Efficiency of Residential Buildings (DB 33/1015-2021) [24], the calculated period for air conditioner cooling in Tonglu County is from June 15th to September 15th, and the calculated period for heating is from December 15th to February 20th of the following year. By combining interviews and questionnaire surveys, this paper has obtained the operation time of the air conditioners of Huaigengtang Dwelling residents during the calculated summer cooling period and thus formed

Table 3. Air conditioning operation schedule. (Chart source: self-drawn by the research team).

Time/h		1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	13	14	15	16	17	18	19	20	21	22	23	24
Hall	Working days
	Weekend
Bedroom	Working days
	Weekend

Note: The green-filled part indicates that the air conditioner is in operation, while the unfilled part indicates that the air conditioner is off.

, showing the summer air conditioner operation schedule.

2.2. Research Pathway

The article focuses on the optimization of selecting patio renovation measures for traditional dwellings in China’s hot summer and cold winter zone. The research aims to evaluate and identify the most suitable patio renovation measures through simulation analysis, with the dual objectives of improving thermal comfort and reducing energy consumption. First, excellent cases are analyzed to create a list of traditional dwellings patio renovation measures in the hot summer and cold winter zone. Secondly, a quantitative evaluation method for patio renovation measures based on thermal comfort and energy consumption is developed. Finally, based on different renovation intensities in practice, we propose suggestions for the application of patio renovation measures classified according to the intensity of functional transformation.

2.3. Quantitative Evaluation Method for Renovation Measures

2.3.1. Scope Definition

The general hall space is directly influenced by patio renovation and is closely connected with the daily activities of the residents, making it significant to analyze the change in thermal comfort before and after renovation. Meanwhile, the impact of patio renovation measures on the comfort of indoor spaces such as bedrooms is relatively indirect, but the renovation measures will have a significant impact on the building’s energy consumption. Therefore, the article defines the simulation and evaluation of thermal comfort within the scope of patios and general halls, and the simulation and evaluation of energy consumption within the scope of the entire building.

2.3.2. Determination of Evaluation Indicators

(1) Thermal Comfort Evaluation Indicators

According to the standards specified in ASHRAE 55-2023 [25] and the “Indoor Thermal and Humid Environment Evaluation Standard for Civil Buildings” GB/T 50785-2012 [26], the thermal comfort evaluation standard for relevant rooms is based on the Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) and the Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied (PPD) indicators, which are used to assess indoor thermal comfort under the conditions of human activities and artificial heating or cooling sources. The indicator takes into account multiple factors, including air temperature, mean radiant temperature, air velocity, relative humidity, human activity levels, and clothing thermal resistance, to predict the thermal sensation of an average person in a given environment.

Meanwhile, considering the differences in thermal comfort adaptation between rural and urban residents, referring to the level II comfort grade in China’s norms, with the comprehensive dissatisfaction rate PPD < 27%(−1 < PMV < 1) as the evaluation principle, the annual uncomfortable hours of each room were obtained through DB simulation, and then the average uncomfortable hours of the first-floor patio and the general hall space were calculated. And we took this as an indicator of indoor thermal comfort. The improvement rate of comfort time = (time after improvement − reference time)/reference time × 100%. This formula is used to quantify the growth ratio of comfort time. The larger the value, the better the effect of the renovation measures on improving thermal comfort.

(2) Energy Consumption Evaluation Indicators

Building energy consumption evaluation indicators are essential for assessing building energy efficiency and energy-saving levels. These indicators cover various aspects, from total energy consumption to energy consumption per unit area and energy savings rate. In this article, the “energy consumption per unit conditioned area” and the “energy savings rate” are chosen as the evaluation indicators for energy consumption. Energy consumption per unit conditioned area is defined as the total energy consumed for each square meter of conditioned area, regulated by an air conditioning system (or other climate control systems), within a specific time period (e.g., one year). The energy savings rate is the percentage difference between the actual energy consumption after energy-saving measures are implemented and the baseline energy consumption before any energy-saving measures are applied.

2.3.3. Comprehensive Evaluation Method for Thermal Comfort and Energy Consumption

This article adopts the “entropy weight method” [26] to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of thermal comfort and energy consumption. The entropy weight method is a method that comprehensively considers various influencing factors and objectively assigns weights by utilizing information differences. This method calculates the weights directly from the information provided in the decision matrix, without introducing subjective judgment from the decision maker, thereby eliminating certain subjective factors. It is an objective method for determining weights. Specifically, a comprehensive score is conducted by calculating the weight ratio of “uncomfortable hours throughout the year” and “energy consumption intensity per unit regulated area”, and the energy utilization efficiency of the renovation measures is measured by the level of this score, that is, on the premise of improving thermal comfort, energy consumption is reduced as much as possible.

3. Summary of Patio Renovation Measures

3.1. Case Sources

3.1.1. Selection Criteria for Renovation Cases

This paper selects practical renovation cases of patio-style traditional dwellings in the hot summer and cold winter zone, mainly covering Zhejiang Province and the Yangtze River Delta region, to facilitate the subsequent research on extracting renovation measures. Patios embody the climate-adaptive construction wisdom of traditional dwellings in the hot summer and cold winter zone and play positive roles in lighting, ventilation, and integration with nature for the general hall space. In the renovation of contemporary dwellings, it is necessary to consider not only their structural and construction characteristics but also comply with relevant traditional building protection regulations. The selection of patio-style traditional dwelling renovation cases determined in this paper must meet three principles: first, no damage to the overall style of the dwellings (reversible renovation); second, respect for traditional construction wisdom; and third, adoption of appropriate patio renovation measures.

3.1.2. Sources of Renovation Cases

The renovation cases are sourced from two academic journals, Architectural Journal and Building Energy Efficiency, as well as two architectural design websites, Gooood and ArchDaily. Architectural Journal is a national first-class academic journal sponsored by the Architectural Society of China, publishing excellent green building design works. Building Energy Efficiency comprehensively and timely publishes the latest papers and cases on building energy efficiency technologies. Gooood features a large number of detailed Chinese cases and is a commonly used platform among Chinese designers.

ArchDaily is one of the world’s largest architectural websites; its Chinese version was launched in 2017, enjoying high popularity and influence both at home and abroad. The selected time period is from January 2014 to December 2024. In accordance with the three criteria for selecting renovation cases, a total of 58 renovation cases of dwellings located in the hot summer and cold winter zone were selected.

3.1.3. Classification of Renovation Cases

The renovation of traditional dwellings refers to the reconstruction activity that adopts corresponding renovation methods and specific measures to modify buildings, so as to meet current needs by changing the building’s functions, structure, and performance. The 58 cases were interpreted one by one, listing the basic information, functional changes, main renovation contents of the cases, etc. It was found that 18 cases maintained their original living functions after the renovation, 19 cases became homestays after the renovation, and 21 cases changed their original living functions and became restaurants or exhibition halls. According to the degree of functional changes before and after the renovation, the article is divided into functional inheritance renovation, functional optimization renovation, and functional replacement renovation. These renovation cases respect the protection of traditional features and mainly adopt three main intervention methods: repair and utilization, partial restoration, and structural change. As shown in

Table 4. Review of 58 cases of traditional dwellings renovation. (Chart source: self-drawn and compiled by the research team).

Renovation Type	Renovation Purpose	Functional Change	Renovation Content	Intervention Method	Degree of Intervention
Inheritance-type renovation	Restore the original appearance; inherit the cultural connotation.	Maintain the original function.	Repair the appearance; improve living conditions.	Restoration and utilization	Low (I)
Optimization-type renovation	Improve the functions of the internal space; improve the comfort level of buildings.	Retain residence or convert to a homestay.	Optimize the spatial layout; adjust part of the structure.	Partial restoration	Moderate (II)
Replacement-type renovation	Adapt to the new functional requirements; improve the comfort level of buildings.	All functions have changed, and they are generally converted into public buildings.	It will be carried out according to the new function; comprehensive adjustment.	Structural alteration	High (III)

, these 58 renovation cases are sorted out. According to the three types of functional changes, the renovation purposes, functional changes, and renovation contents are sorted out. The main intervention methods are clarified, and the degree of intervention of the renovation measures on traditional buildings is judged from low to high as low (I), medium (II), and high (III).

3.2. Summary of Renovation Measures

3.2.1. Extraction of Measures

The 58 renovation cases were sorted out one by one to clarify the basic information, renovation type, and renovation method of each case, and passive renovation measures related to patios and quasi-patio spaces were extracted therefrom. For example, in the renovation of a traditional dwelling into a Paper Museum in Dongshan Village, Hangzhou, there were nine overall renovation measures, but only one was related to the patio space—specifically, the addition of a double-sloped glass roof above the eaves, which transformed the originally open patio into an enclosed leisure courtyard [27].

3.2.2. Selection of Measures

Among the patio-related renovation measures extracted from the 58 cases, some were of the same type. Decorative renovation measures that had no direct impact on the thermal environment and thermal comfort of the general hall space were excluded. After merging similar measures, a total of 14 patio renovation measures were obtained.

3.2.3. Categorization and Summary

As shown in

Table 5. Summary of renovation measures for traditional residential patios in hot summer and cold winter zone. (Chart source: self-drawn by the research team/).

Category	Name of Renovation Measures	Specific Description of the Measures	Intervention Level	Compatibility of Air Conditioners
Top interface	Hang the curtain	Hang and fix the curtain under the eaves.	I	×
	Open-type glass roof above the eaves	Build a roof above the patio that is higher than the surrounding area.	III	×
	Single-pitch glass roof above the eaves	The steel frame glass windows are directly erected by means of the structures around the patio. The glass windows are single-pitch, and the side windows can be opened.	III	√
	Double-pitch glass roof above the eaves	The steel frame glass windows are directly erected by means of the structures around the patio. The glass windows are double-pitched, and the side windows can be opened.	III	√
	Open glass roof under the eaves	Add columns on the inner side of the patio, then overlap the upper end of the glass under the eaves, and install windows on top of the glass that can be opened.	III	√
	Retractable sunshade roof under the eaves	Add columns on the inner side of the patio and then overlap the upper ends of the movable wooden grilles or louvers under the eaves.	III	√
Side interface	Full-height enclosed glass partition	Glass partitions are set up from bottom to top along the four sides of the patio for enclosure.	III	√
	Set up enclosed glass partition on the first floor	Glass partitions are set up around the bottom of the patio for enclosure.	III	√
	Movable partition at the bottom floor	Movable partitions will be added to the general hall space on the ground floor.	II	√
	Demolish partition on both sides of the patio	Add an open hall and remove the walls of the east–west facing rooms in the patio to create a large space.	II	×
Bottom interface	Using ecological permeable ground	It is mainly composed of new environmentally friendly building materials such as permeable bricks.	II	×
	A pool is set in the center of the patio	The bottom of the patio space is sunken to set up a shallow water layer for the landscape.	I	×
	Use soft flooring	The ground paving at the bottom of the patio space mainly utilizes materials such as low shrubs and lawns.	I	×
	Add landscape plants	Set up landscapes by using shrubs, flowers, ornamental grasses, and so on at the bottom of the patio space.	I	×

Note: “√” indicates that air condi-tioners can be installed simul-taneously; “×” indicates that air conditioners cannot be in-stalled simulta-neously.

, the 14 selected renovation measures related to the patio are named and classified. First, according to the locations where these measures were applied in the patio, they were divided into three major categories: top interface, side interface, and bottom interface. Second, the intervention degree of each measure was determined based on the intervention methods proposed in Table 4. Finally, the compatibility between each measure and air conditioners was judged by whether the patio or quasi-patio space became an enclosed space after the measure was implemented.

4. Quantitative Analysis of Patio Renovation Measures

4.1. Single Patio Renovation Measures Quantitative Analysis

4.1.1. Developing Quantitative Simulation Plans

Among the 14 patio renovation measures summarized in Table 5, seven are high-intervention measures III that change the patio structure, three are medium-intervention measures (II) that use partial repairs, and four are low-intervention measures (I) that involve repair and reuse. Although previous studies have indicated that adding landscape plants or using shrub paving in patios can affect patio temperature, in the hot and humid northern Zhejiang region, the narrow patios of traditional dwellings are generally paved with stone and rarely feature floral plants. Since low-intervention measures can be implemented after the main body renovation is completed, they have a relatively small impact on the comfort and energy consumption of the renovation plan. In order to improve the efficiency of the model simulation, four low-intervention measures were screened out in the article. A total of 10 modification measures were selected for the subsequent quantitative simulation and sorted from 0 to 10. Among them, no. 0 is the original model; that is, no modification measures were adopted.

As shown in

Table 6. List of 10 patio renovation measures after selecting. (Chart source: self-drawn by the research team).

Number	Number (Name of Renovation Measure)	Sectional View	Real-Scene Photos of the Example
0	0 (There are no renovation measures)
1	P1 (Open-type glass roof above the eaves)
2	P2 (Single pitch glass roof above the eaves)
3	P3 (Double pitch glass roof above the eaves)
4	P4 (Open glass roof under the eaves)
5	P5 (Full-height enclosed single-layer glass partition)
6	P6 (Full-height enclosed double-layer glass partition)
7	P7 (Set up enclosed glass partition on the first floor)
8	N1 (Set up movable partition on the first floor)
9	N2 (Demolish partition on both sides of the patio)
10	N3 (Using ecological permeable ground)

, measures 1–7 represent high-intervention measures (III), which turn the patio and general living room into indoor spaces, while measures 8–10 represent medium-intervention measures (II), which retain the patio and general hall space as non-indoor spaces. Measures P and N were used to differentiate these two categories. The 10 selected renovation measures were numbered, and the corresponding cross-sectional diagrams and real scene photos of the cases were drawn and sorted out.

4.1.2. Thermal Comfort Simulation Analysis

Figure 2 shows the results of the simulation of thermal comfort improvement after applying the 10 renovation measures, comparing the changes in the “percentage of comfortable and uncomfortable hours throughout the year” and the “comfort time improvement rate” in the patio and the general hall space. From this, it can be seen that the renovation measures P1, P2, and P3 significantly improve thermal comfort, with P1 yielding the best results, followed by P3. In contrast, measure N1 negatively affects thermal comfort, demonstrating the poorest results. The reason for this is that measure N1 involves adding movable partition walls on the ground floor, which affects the original ventilation function of the patio. The order in which different renovation measures improve the indoor thermal comfort effect is P1 > P3 > P2 > P4 > P6 > P5 > P7 > N3 > N2 > N1.

Further analysis of measures P3 and P4 reveals that the main difference between these two measures lies in whether the glass roof is added above or below the eaves, but the simulation results show a significant disparity. The reason why the improvement rate of comfort time and the number of comfort hours of P3 are both higher than those of P4 is that the practice of adding a closed patio on the eaves enhances the ventilation effect of the patio, thereby improving the thermal comfort level in summer.

4.1.3. Energy Consumption Simulation Analysis

In the natural ventilation condition, the impact of each renovation measure on Energy Use Intensity (EUI) and energy savings rate is shown in Figure 3. It can be seen that the EUI value is the highest when measure P5 is adopted, and the energy consumption for refrigeration is significantly increased. The reason for this is that this measure hinders the natural ventilation of the patio due to the full height enclosure, increases the energy consumption for cooling and heating of the entire building, and significantly reduces the energy-saving rate. N2 and P7, like P5, all have negative energy-saving rates and consume more energy compared to the original model.

On the other hand, N1 demonstrated the best energy savings, significantly reducing winter heating energy consumption. The reason for this is that this measure can adjust the openness of the space according to climate change, effectively reducing the entry of cold air into the room in winter, thereby lowering energy consumption. Compared with the original model, its EUI has decreased by 5.81 kWh/m², and the energy-saving rate is 12.06%. The energy-saving effects of measures P1, P2, P3, and P4 are secondary, with energy-saving rates of about 4% to 5%. The order of energy-saving effects of different patio renovation measures is N1 > P2 > P4 > P3 > P1 > N3 > P6 > P7 > N2 > P5.

4.1.4. Comprehensive Simulation Evaluation of Thermal Comfort and Energy Consumption

To comprehensively assess the impact of different renovation measures on thermal comfort and energy consumption, the entropy weight method was used to calculate the weight of the two indicators: “ annual uncomfortable hours “ and “EUI (Energy Use Intensity). The results revealed that the “ annual uncomfortable hours “ indicator carried a higher weight of 0.616, while the “EUI” indicator had a weight of 0.384. As shown in

Table 7. Comprehensive evaluation results of single patio renovation measure. (natural ventilation state) (Chart source: self-drawn by the research team).

Plan Number	Original Data x		Standardize the Processing Data x1		Comprehensive Score Z	Ranking
	Uncomfortable Hours (h/Year)	Energy Use Intensity (kWh/m2)	Uncomfortable Hours	Energy Use Intensity
0	833.6	48.18	0.22	0.55	0.346	8
P1	548.3	46.14	1.00	0.71	0.887	1
P2	570.6	45.67	0.94	0.74	0.864	3
P3	561.0	45.99	0.97	0.72	0.870	2
P4	705.7	45.87	0.60	0.73	0.630	4
P5	762.2	55.19	0.42	0.00	0.256	10
P6	709.9	46.83	0.56	0.65	0.594	5
P7	833.5	48.58	0.22	0.52	0.334	9
N1	914.0	42.37	0.00	1.00	0.384	6
N2	849.6	54.20	0.18	0.08	0.138	11
N3	847.6	46.69	0.18	0.66	0.367	7
Weight wj	0.616	0.384	0.616	0.384	-	-

Note: The x¹ is to differentiate from the preceding column x.

, the renovation measure with the highest comprehensive score was P1 (open-type glass roof above the eaves), which reduced energy consumption while improving thermal comfort. The next best measures were P3 (double-pitch glass above the eaves) and P2 (single-pitch glass roof above the eaves), both performing excellently across both indicators.

According to field research, the use of air conditioners by residents in villages and towns in the Yangtze River Delta region has become quite common. When the patio renovation measures are adopted, the first-floor patio and the general hall space can be transformed into indoor spaces. At this time, the use of air conditioning can significantly enhance the indoor thermal comfort level. Therefore, the compatibility of air conditioners needs to be regarded as an influencing variable to simulate and analyze the renovation measures that can improve thermal comfort while ensuring energy utilization efficiency. When air conditioners are in use, the impact of renovation measures on thermal comfort will diminish, and energy consumption will be taken as the main evaluation criterion. A simulation was conducted in combination with the seven patio renovation measures listed in Table 5 with “air conditioning compatibility” marked as “√”, and the changes in the impact of the renovation measures on thermal comfort and energy consumption before and after the installation of air conditioning were compared and analyzed (Figure 4).

As can be seen from Figure 4, the EUI after the addition of air conditioning has obviously increased, and at the same time, the thermal comfort has also been significantly improved. Therefore, a comprehensive evaluation of the two indicators is conducted through the entropy weight method to obtain a comprehensive score result, and based on this, the energy utilization efficiency of the renovation measures after the installation of air conditioners is measured. The comprehensive scores of measure P3 (double-pitch glass roof above the eaves) and N1 (set up movable partition on the first floor) are extremely close. Both maximize thermal comfort while generating relatively less energy consumption and have relatively high energy utilization efficiency.

4.2. Quantitative Analysis of Combined Renovation Measures

4.2.1. Formulation of Simulation Plans for Combined Renovation Measures

In the actual practice of patio renovation, combined renovation measures are often adopted, and it is necessary to optimize the combined renovation measures through simulation analysis. First, the renovation measures with poor comprehensive effects were screened out. According to the comprehensive evaluation results shown in Table 7, the three renovation measures (P5, P7, and N2) whose comprehensive scores ranked after the original building were excluded. Combined with the comprehensive evaluation results shown in

Table 8. Comprehensive evaluation results of single patio renovation measure. (status of air conditioning installation) (chart source: self-drawn by the research team).

Plan Number	Original Data x		Standardize the Processing Data x1		Comprehensive Score Z	Ranking
	Uncomfortable Hours (h/Year)	Energy Use Intensity (kWh/m2)	Uncomfortable Hours	Energy Use Intensity
P2-1	426.8	63.51	1.00	0.30	0.561	3
P3-1	482.8	59.08	0.83	0.59	0.678	1
P4-1	562.2	66.53	0.59	0.11	0.287	6
P5-1	618.5	68.22	0.42	0.00	0.155	7
P6-1	528.4	66.09	0.69	0.14	0.342	5
P7-1	667.3	60.94	0.27	0.47	0.395	4
N1-1	756.1	52.71	0.00	1.00	0.630	2
Weight wj	0.370	0.630	0.370	0.630	-	-

Note: P2-1 corresponds to P2. P2-1 refers to the measure of “single-pitch glass roof above the eaves” and the installation of air conditioning in the general hall space and so on. The x¹ is to differentiate from the preceding column x.

, excluding the two renovation measures (P5 and P4) with the lowest comprehensive score ranking, six renovation measures with better comprehensive effects were obtained. Secondly, among these six measures (P1, P2, P3, P6, N1, and N3), the only difference between P3 and P2 is the form of the glass roof (double-slope and single-slope), and the quantitative results of comfort improvement and energy consumption reduction in these two measures are relatively close. Therefore, in the subsequent combination simulation, measure P2 is taken as the representative, and in practice, these two can be substituted for each other. Finally, five patio renovation measures (P1, P2, P6, N1, and N3) with relatively excellent performance were determined for subsequent combined simulation. That is, the single renovation measures P1, P2, P6, N1, and N3 were permutations and combined to simulate and analyze the effects of the combined renovation measures.

The article uses the “Cartesian product” [28] to generate all possible combinations of the renovation measures (see

Table 9. Simulation scheme of combined renovation measures. (chart source: self-drawn by the research team).

Number	Set A	Schematic Diagram	Set B	Schematic Diagram	Set C
C1	P1		N1		1/2
C2	P1		N3		1/2
C3	P2		N1		1/2
C4	P2		N3		1/2
C5	P6		N1		1/2
C6	P6		N3		1/2
C7	P1		N1N3		1/2
C8	P2		N1N3		1/2
C9	P6		N1N3		1/2

). The renovation measures can be divided into three sets. Measures P1, P2, and P6 are measures that can change the nature of the patio and the general hall space. Generally, they are no longer used in combination. Therefore, set A = {P1, P2, P6}. Measures N1 and N3 are measures that do not change the nature of the patio and the hall space. They can be used in combination. Therefore, set B = {N1, N3, N1N3}. Since the installation of air conditioning has a significant impact on the thermal environment and energy consumption, set C = {1,2}, where “1” indicates that air conditioning is installed in the general hall space and “2” indicates that air conditioning is not installed in the general hall space. A × B × C generates a total of 18 possible combination schemes, which are divided into two major categories: one is the natural ventilation scheme (represented by “Cx”, where x = 1, 2, 3…), and one type is the air conditioning installation scheme (represented by “Cx−1”, x = 1, 2, 3…). After integration, there are a total of nine simulation schemes, numbered C1 to C9. Scheme C0 is the original building and serves as the control group.

4.2.2. Comprehensive Evaluation of Thermal Comfort and Energy Consumption of Combined Measures

Comprehensively considering the influences on thermal comfort and energy consumption, the weights of the two indicators were calculated based on the entropy weight method. The results show that under the natural ventilation state, the weight of the “ annual uncomfortable hours “ indicator is 0.630, and the weight of the “EUI” indicator is 0.370. The comprehensive evaluation results are shown in

Table 10. Comprehensive evaluation results of combined renovation measures. (natural ventilation) (table source: self-drawn by the research team).

Plan Number	Renovation Measures		Original Data x		Standardize the Processing Data x1		Comprehensive Score Z	Ranking
	Set A	Set B	Uncomfortable Hours (h/Year)	Energy Use Intensity (kWh/m2)	Uncomfortable Hours	Energy Use Intensity
C0	-	-	833.6	48.18	0.03	0.77	0.274	10
C1	P1	N1	618	46.18	0.45	0.85	0.577	6
C2	P1	N3	556.1	46.17	0.56	0.85	0.657	3
C3	P2	N1	599.9	46.08	0.48	0.85	0.602	4
C4	P2	N3	587.9	46.47	0.50	0.83	0.612	5
C5	P6	N1	819.3	47.28	0.06	0.80	0.304	8
C6	P6	N3	655.4	46.67	0.37	0.83	0.523	7
C7	P1	N1N3	527.4	46.00	0.62	0.85	0.696	2
C8	P2	N1N3	540.1	45.42	0.59	0.88	0.687	1
C9	P6	N1N3	851.6	47.39	0.00	0.80	0.261	9
Weight wj	-	-	0.630	0.370	0.630	0.370	-	-

Note: The x¹ is to differentiate from the preceding column x.

. Scheme C9 (P6+N1+N3) performs the worst and has relatively low energy utilization efficiency. Although it has improved to a certain extent compared to the original scheme, it is not recommended for adoption. The combined renovation measure scheme with the highest comprehensive score is C8 (P2+N1+N3), followed by schemes C7 and C2. Their improvement effects on the indoor thermal environment and energy consumption all exceed those of the schemes with partial air conditioning installation.

The weights of the two indicators under the set air conditioning state were also calculated by the entropy weight method. The results showed that the weight of the “uncomfortable hours” indicator was 0.468, and the weight of the “energy consumption per unit regulated area” indicator was 0.532. The comprehensive evaluation results are shown in

Table 11. Comprehensive evaluation results of combined renovation measures. (air conditioning installation) (table source: self-drawn by the research team).

Plan Number	Renovation Measures		Original Data x		Standardize the Processing Data x1		Comprehensive Score Z	Ranking
	Set A	Set B	Uncomfortable Hours (h/year)	Energy Use Intensity (kWh/m2)	Uncomfortable Hours	Energy Use Intensity
C0	-	-	833.6	48.18	0.03	0.77	0.274	7
C1-1	P1	N1	489.4	54.83	0.69	0.51	0.631	6
C2-1	P1	N3	420.5	53.18	0.82	0.57	0.741	4
C3-1	P2	N1	328.0	42.24	1.00	1.00	1.000	1
C4-1	P2	N3	376.2	42.26	0.91	1.00	0.938	2
C5-1	P6	N1	668.6	58.21	0.35	0.38	0.358	9
C6-1	P6	N3	498.3	67.81	0.67	0.00	0.454	10
C7-1	P1	N1N3	442.0	54.46	0.78	0.52	0.697	5
C8-1	P2	N1N3	388.7	42.79	0.88	0.98	0.915	3
C9-1	P6	N1N3	614.2	58.16	0.45	0.38	0.429	8
Weight wj	-	-	0.468	0.532	0.468	0.532	-	-

Note: The x¹ is to differentiate from the preceding column x.

. Scheme C3-1 (P2+N1) has the highest comprehensive score; that is, it reduces the energy consumption per unit regulated area while maximizing the thermal comfort level, and has the highest energy utilization efficiency. Secondly, there are schemes C4-1 and C8-1, which also perform well in both indicators.

4.3. Optimization and Application of Patio Renovation Measures

4.3.1. Preferred Patio Renovation Measures

The above text quantitatively compares the differences in the impact of different renovation measures on the thermal comfort of the patio and general halls, as well as on the overall building energy consumption. It also quantitatively evaluates single and combined renovation measures based on the improvement of thermal comfort and the reduction in energy consumption. Then, optimization selection is conducted based on the values of the comprehensive score Z, and the optimization measures suitable for the patio renovation of traditional dwellings in the hot summer and cold winter zone are sorted out (

Table 12. The optimization of selecting patio renovation measures for traditional dwellings in the hot summer and cold winter zone. (Chart source: self-drawn by the research team).

	The Optimization of Selecting Single Patio Renovation Measures
	Natural Ventilation			Set Up Air Conditioning
Measures	P1	P3	P2	P3	N1
Schematic diagram
	The Optimization of Selecting Combined Patio Renovation Measures
	Natural ventilation			Set up air conditioning
Plan	C8	C7	C2	C3	C4	C8
Measures	P2(P3)+N1N3	P1+N1N3	P1+N3	P2(P3)+N1	P2(P3)+N3	P2(P3)+N1N3
Schematic diagram

).

Table 12, The optimization of selecting single and combined patio renovation measures, only presenting the simulation results under the conditions of optimization based on thermal comfort and energy consumption. In actual patio renovation cases, as shown in Table 4 above, different types of functional changes result in different intervention degrees, renovation goals, renovation intensification, and main renovation contents. Moreover, factors such as cost output and construction difficulty also affect the selection and application of measures.

4.3.2. Classification Applications

(1) Functional inheritance-type renovation

Functional inheritance-type renovation basically continues the core residential functions and often choose passive renovation measures with lower costs and ease of construction. Meanwhile, the general purpose of renovation is mainly to enhance thermal comfort, with energy consumption control as a secondary consideration. The residents’ reliance on air conditioners can be reduced through renovation, thereby achieving the goal of reducing energy consumption.

For renovations with low requirements for thermal comfort improvement, measures N1 (set up movable partition on the first floor) and N3 (using ecological permeable ground) can be selected. For renovations with moderate requirements for thermal comfort improvement, it is recommended to choose P7 (set up enclosed glass partition on the first floor), which can neither damage the appearance nor make good use of the hall space. In addition, it is recommended to adopt more measures with a low degree of interference (I), such as arranging green plants in the patio to create a good living atmosphere and enhance the comfort of life psychologically.

(2) Functional optimization-type renovation

Most functional optimization-type renovations involve transforming into homestays or farmhouses. In actual renovations, measures with moderate and high intervention degrees are often adopted to upgrade indoor comfort. The main purpose of its renovation is to enhance thermal comfort, and it also attaches great importance to energy consumption control. It is recommended to choose renovation measures with medium costs and make appropriate use of air conditioners to enhance thermal comfort.

For renovations with moderate requirements for thermal comfort, P1 (open-type glass roof above the eaves) and P4 (open glass roof under the eaves) are recommended. For renovations with high requirements for thermal comfort, it is recommended to choose P2/P3 (single-pitch glass roof above the eaves/double-pitch glass roof above the eaves). These measures, while respecting the traditional style, have made full use of the general hall space by adding auxiliary structures. In addition, it is recommended to adopt the preferred patio combination for implementation, which can further balance the improvement of thermal comfort and the reduction in energy consumption.

(3) Functional replacement-type renovation

Replacement-type renovation is to transform dwellings into cultural and artistic spaces (such as handicraft workshops, book bars, etc.), often adopting moderate and high intervention measures. Since the renovation is basically led by the government, while emphasizing energy conservation, the comfort of the space is also required. It is recommended to choose measures with a higher comprehensive evaluation and install air conditioners to enhance thermal comfort.

If one measure is chosen, it is recommended to select P2/P3 (single-pitch glass roof above the eaves/double-pitch glass roof above the eaves). If a combination of measures is chosen, it is recommended to select P2/P3 (single-pitch glass roof above the eaves/double-pitch glass roof above the eaves) + N1 (set up movable partition on the first floor) + N3 (using ecological permeable ground). These measures have achieved technological innovation while respecting tradition. By enclosing the patio, the general hall space has been fully utilized, and thermal comfort and energy consumption have been effectively balanced.

5. Conclusions

While previous studies have predominantly focused on morphological renovation of the patios themselves in traditional dwellings, this paper concentrates on renovation measures commonly adopted by designers. Through a coupled evaluation of two objectives—enhancing thermal comfort in the general hall space and reducing the overall building energy consumption—the study optimizes the selection of patio renovation measures suitable for various scenarios of traditional dwellings in hot summer and cold winter zones. The specific results are as follows:

(1) Through the quantitative evaluation of the renovation measures of a single patio, the one that performed best in improving thermal comfort was P1 (open-type glass roof above the eaves), and the one that performed worst was N1 (set up movable partition on the first floor). However, the best in terms of energy consumption reduction was N1 (set up movable partition on the first floor), and the worst was P5 (full-height enclosed single-layer glass partition). From this, it can be seen that certain individual measures like N1 have conflicting effects in enhancing thermal comfort and reducing energy consumption. In previous renovation designs, it was difficult to balance this solely based on the designer’s experience, and comprehensive quantitative evaluation research must be conducted.

(2) Considering the two goals of thermal comfort and energy consumption, measure P1 (open-type glass roof above the eaves) performs best under natural ventilation conditions, followed by P3 and P2. The reason for this is that measure P1 has enhanced the ventilation effect of the patio, significantly improving the thermal comfort of the patio in spring and autumn. Moreover, this measure has a relatively low cost and is convenient for construction. It is recommended for priority adoption. When air conditioning is installed in the general hall, the preferred single renovation measures are P3 and N1. In addition, measure P7 (set up enclosed glass partition on the first floor), which appears frequently in the case, shows that the quantitative results do not have a good effect on improving thermal comfort and saving. The reason for this is that this measure only plays a role in stabilizing the thermal comfort of the general hall but fails to make good use of the ventilation effect of the patio. Therefore, it is not recommended to choose a single option.

(3) Regarding the quantitative evaluation of the combined renovation measures, scheme C8 (P2, single-pitch glass roof above the eaves, +N1, set up movable partition on the first floor, +N3, using ecological permeable ground) is the most recommended under the condition of natural ventilation, followed by schemes C7 and C2. When the air conditioning is set up, scheme C3 (P2 single-pitch glass roof above the eaves +N1 set up movable partition on the first floor) is the most recommended, followed by schemes C4 and C8. Measure P2 performs well both in natural ventilation and with air conditioning. The reason for this is that measure P2 not only enhances the ventilation effect of the patio but also provides a certain degree of shading. Therefore, it is recommended and promoted for use.

(4) In the hot summer and cold winter zone, the preferred measures P1, P3, and P2 for natural ventilation conditions share the common feature of transforming the top interface of the patio and installing a glass roof above the eaves. The reason for this is to enhance the ventilation effect of the patio, this is also consistent with the research results of Sun Qianqian and Jia Shanghong [19,29]. Meanwhile, setting up air conditioners can significantly enhance indoor thermal comfort. After choosing the preferred renovation measures in Table 12, compared with the original building, the energy consumption required to achieve the same thermal comfort will be reduced. When the cost allows, it is recommended to use air conditioning as an auxiliary measure to enhance the indoor thermal comfort.

(5) Traditional dwellings are confronted with the dual challenges of functional improvement and performance enhancement, and it is necessary to formulate integrated renovation measures for both functional and performance improvement. By judging the degree of functional change, namely inheritance-type renovation, optimization-type renovation, and replacement-type renovation, and analyzing their corresponding relationships with performance evaluation indicators, namely the improvement of thermal comfort and the reduction in energy consumption, appropriate renovation measures are recommended for different functional types, achieving an effective match between functional improvement and performance enhancement.

Under China’s national policies of Rural Revitalization and the “dual carbon” goals, the renovation of traditional dwellings faces the dual challenges of functional improvement and performance enhancement. From the perspective of architectural designers, this paper breaks through the disjointed phenomenon between function and performance in previous studies on traditional dwelling renovation and establishes a research path based on the “function–performance” dual-dimensional intersection. By constructing the corresponding relationship between functional classification standards (inheritance-type renovation/optimization-type renovation/replacement-type renovation) and performance evaluation indicators (thermal comfort/energy consumption), quantitative evaluation and optimized recommendation of patio renovation measures are conducted. This method improves the limitations of designer-led empirical decision-making in patio renovation and provides optimized solutions for the renovation of patio-style dwellings under various scenarios.

This study still has several limitations. First, in terms of selecting practical cases, the research only focuses on patio-style traditional dwellings in the Yangtze River Delta region of China, with a sample size of merely 58 cases, which cannot yet represent the typicality of various measures applied in patio renovation. Second, this paper selects Huaigengtang Dwelling as a typical model for quantitative simulation; however, its architectural form, functional orientation, and regional characteristics are unique, which limits the universality of the quantitative evaluation results. Finally, the measurement conducted in Huaigengtang Dwelling in this study lasted only 24 h. A longer measurement period would provide more detailed insights regarding thermal comfort and energy usage. Moreover, according to the measurement protocols mentioned in ASHRAE Standard 55-2023, the accuracy range of the “portable electronic temperature and humidity recorder” used in this study does not meet the applicable specifications. The data presented in this paper are primarily based on simulation results obtained through Design Builder, rather than on a simulation model that has been validated and calibrated against actual measured data. Therefore, the actual measurements were conducted to provide information about the real thermal conditions in the selected rooms. However, this study complies with all protocols mentioned in the usage standards of Design Builder. Thus, while this study can be considered reliable, it has not been fully validated.

Finally, the on-site measurement of Huaigengtang Dwelling in this study was conducted for only 24 h. A longer monitoring period would provide more detailed insights regarding thermal comfort and energy usage. Furthermore, according to the measurement protocols specified in ASHRAE Standard 55-2023, the accuracy range of the portable electronic temperature and humidity recorder used in this study does not fully comply with the applicable specifications. The data presented in this paper are primarily based on simulation results obtained through Design Builder, rather than on a simulation model that has been validated and calibrated against actual measured data. Therefore, the actual measurements were intended to provide information about the real thermal conditions in the selected rooms. It should be noted that this study adheres to all protocols mentioned in the usage standards of Design Builder. Thus, while this study can be considered methodologically reliable, its simulations have not been experimentally validated.

In future research, greater attention should also be devoted to the economic and cultural characteristics of dwelling renovations. It is essential to incorporate analysis of the economic benefits of renovation measures in comprehensive evaluations, thereby providing more holistic data support and guidance for the transformation of traditional dwellings.