Performance-based design: report of an academic workshop with energy efficiency simulation tools

Abstract

This article presents the results of a Seminar/Workshop named “Energy Modelling: Preliminary Analysis of an Architecture Project”, organised at the University of Minho's School of Architecture, Art and Design, located in Guimarães. The Seminar/Workshop aimed to teach students on the use of simulation tools that evaluate the energy performance of building's architectural design. It demonstrates the importance of simulation software as a tool to design energy-efficient architecture in the early stages of a project. The Seminar/Workshop introduced students to fundamental notions of simulation related to thermal and natural lighting comfort, like modelling methods, interpreting the obtained results and procedures for improving the results. Despite presenting different simulation software during the workshop, the exercises proposed to the students focused on using Climate Studio because of its versatility and compatibility with different architectural modelling software. The software is relatively recent and can be adapted in different project phases. The students learned the benefits of using simulation software to obtain information for further improving an architectural project. The simulation helped students understand the passive design strategies that can improve thermal comfort in the building. Like making the best use of the landscape, the shape of the building and its position and not just by increased insulation in the envelope, well-oriented glazing, optimised thermal mass, controlled ventilation or shading. Therefore, the students learn that simulation tools allow for optimising the passive strategies to their limits in the design stage.