This paper presents the results of applying an experimental and theoretical model for the assessment of courtyards as a passive strategy for interior space conditioning. Two representative case studies, in a refurbished pre-elementary school building in Mendoza, Argentina, were selected for the analysis. The summer thermal behaviour was analysed through HOBO H08-003-02 data loggers installed in two courtyards and in the adjacent classrooms. The record included weather data every 15 min for 40 summer days. Finally, a dynamic simulation of the two case studies and theoretical cases was carried out. The objective was to assess the impact of different open space design variables on the energy consumption necessary for obtaining comfort conditions in the interior space (base temperature: 25 degrees C). Overall results indicate that, in semi dry areas with a large number of clear sky days, the shade condition of the courtyard is the strategy that most highly impacts the thermal and energy conditions in classrooms. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.