ABSTRACT
We are on the verge of a revolution in building design. Strategies and materials are at hand that can be integrated into modern buildings that consume much less energy to operate, pollute far less, are much more reliable and livable, and cost no more to construct than buildings based on contemporary practice. Success requires a systematic approach that starts in predesign and continues through the design process to construction and operation. The key ingredient required to achieve success is a tool that makes it easy for a designer to understand the consequences of his or her decisions as the design evolves and that can be used to verify performance during commissioning and operation. The proper balance of strategies and their correct implementation is complex, depending on building use, climate, and the local context. Conflicts between issues such as needing solar heat in the winter, avoiding solar heat in the summer, obtaining sufficient natural light, and selecting appropriate equipment, can be resolved through the most effective use of design elements. Daylighting emerges as the design driver in most commercial and institutional buildings. Cost savings resulting from downsized HVAC equipment pay for other improvements. The design tool makes it possible to evaluate these interrelated issues in a comprehensive way. Monitored results from many successful designs show that savings of more than 50% in annual heating, cooling, and lighting energy costs can be achieved through making good decisions during design—without any increase in the construction cost—resulting in buildings that provide better living and working environments for their occupants.
