This study proposes a conceptual multi-criteria assessment framework based on the Integrated Value Model for Sustainability Assessment (MIVES) to evaluate the integration of courtyard architecture and biophilic design within sustainable architecture. Although both approaches have been extensively investigated, they have generally been treated as separate domains, and no comprehensive framework currently exists to assess their combined contribution to sustainability. Through a critical synthesis of the literature on courtyard performance, biophilic design, environmental psychology, and multi-criteria decision-making, the study develops a hierarchical structure consisting of requirements, criteria, indicators, weighting strategies, and value functions. The framework enables environmental, experiential, and functional dimensions to be integrated into a unified assessment model and provides a foundation for future empirical validation. By extending the application of MIVES to human-centered architectural evaluation, the study offers a structured approach for supporting design decision-making and comparing alternative courtyard-based solutions across different climatic and cultural contexts.
- MIVES (Integrated Value Model for Sustainability Assessment)
- Courtyard
- Biophilic Design
- Sustainable Architecture
- Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM)
- Sustainability Assessment
- Human–Nature Interaction.
1. Introduction
Courtyard architecture and biophilic design have received increasing attention within sustainable architecture because of their potential to enhance environmental performance while supporting human well-being [1][2][3]. Historically, courtyards have functioned as passive climatic regulators through natural ventilation, daylight penetration, shading, and thermal moderation [4][5]. In parallel, biophilic design emphasizes the integration of natural systems and human–nature relationships to promote restorative and psychological benefits [6][7]. Although both approaches share common objectives, they have generally been investigated independently, resulting in a fragmented understanding of their combined contribution to sustainability [8].
2. Courtyards and Biophilic Design
Courtyards represent one of the oldest architectural typologies used across diverse climatic regions [4]. Beyond their environmental functions, they facilitate social interaction, visual connection with vegetation, and cultural continuity [9]. Biophilic design, derived from the biophilia hypothesis, seeks to strengthen human connections with nature through direct and indirect experiences of natural elements [6][10]. Previous studies have demonstrated that biophilic environments may contribute to stress reduction, cognitive restoration, and increased occupant satisfaction [11][12].
3. Need for an Integrated Assessment Framework
Despite the growing body of literature on courtyard performance and biophilic design, existing assessment approaches often focus on isolated dimensions, including energy efficiency, thermal comfort, or psychological well-being [13][14]. Relatively few frameworks evaluate the interactions among environmental performance, human experience, and architectural quality simultaneously [15]. This fragmentation limits evidence-based design and hinders the systematic comparison of alternative courtyard solutions [16].
4. MIVES Methodology
The Integrated Value Model for Sustainability Assessment (MIVES) is a multi-criteria decision-making methodology based on Multi-Attribute Value Theory [17]. MIVES structures complex problems through a hierarchical system composed of requirements, criteria, and indicators [18]. The methodology incorporates weighting procedures and value functions that transform heterogeneous variables into normalized values, thereby enabling different sustainability dimensions to be aggregated into a single performance index [19].
5. Proposed Framework
The proposed framework comprises four requirements: Environmental Integration, Biophilic Quality, Human Well-Being, and Functional Resilience. These requirements are further organized into seven criteria and sixteen indicators identified through the literature [2][7][13]. Environmental indicators address thermal comfort, daylight availability, ventilation efficiency, vegetation coverage, biodiversity, and water management. Biophilic indicators evaluate nature presence and sensory experience, whereas human-centered indicators assess restorative quality, stress reduction, and place attachment. Functional indicators focus on spatial connectivity and multifunctionality.
Different value functions, including linear, concave, convex, and S-shaped functions, are employed to account for threshold effects and diminishing returns frequently observed in architectural systems [17][19]. Weighted aggregation produces an Integration Sustainability Index that enables systematic comparison among alternative design solutions.
6. Potential Applications
The framework can support architects, planners, and researchers in evaluating courtyard-based buildings across different climatic and cultural contexts. Potential applications include early-stage design assessment, post-occupancy evaluation, and comparative studies involving residential, educational, healthcare, and public buildings [20]. Future studies may combine simulation tools, user surveys, and expert-based weighting techniques to validate the framework empirically [21].
7. Conclusions
The integration of courtyard architecture and biophilic design represents a promising direction for human-centered sustainable architecture. The proposed MIVES-based framework provides a structured approach for assessing environmental, experiential, and functional dimensions within a unified model. By extending conventional sustainability assessment toward restorative and nature-based qualities, the framework offers a foundation for future empirical research and evidence-based architectural decision-making [22].
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