Attached courtyards - Asset or debit?

Enclosed and attached courtyards are common patterns in Mediterranean architecture. They are often referred to as micro-climate modifiers which may improve thermal comfort conditions in the enclosed as well as the attached built volume. This statement may be correct under certain conditions, but is subject to a number of factors: the relative dimensions of open space and built volume, the treatment of exposed surfaces, the orientation of the open space.
This paper presents the results of monitoring undertaken in the Negev Highlands, and compares them to commonly accepted attitudes on the subject. Measurements were taken in two identically shaped and treated, but differently oriented courtyards. The results show a definite influence of orientation on the microclimatic conditions of the open space.