Sol design + consulting

The firm tested a few different design iterations to achieve its net-zero energy and daylighting goals. First, six forms were modeled in SketchUp and analyzed in Sefaira with the goal of maintaining at least 200 lux daylighting for 60% of the year in the main living areas. 

The final design incorporated a narrow plate, compact shape, taller windows, and an interior “light well.”  Once the ideal conceptual design was found, the challenge of maintaining a steady, passive temperature in a mixed climate with very cold winters and hot, humid summers was addressed. Eleven design strategies were analyzed using Sefaira, leading to the decision to specify an Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF) and a combination of small fixed overhangs and operable shading screens over the south-facing windows.

Read more: https://blog.sketchup.com/home/tips-for-designing-a-net-zero-energy-home

Net Zero Energy Home, a post-occupancy assessment

Sefaira’s analysis is nimble enough to keep up with the pace of conceptual and schematic design. Run full annual simulations powered by industry-accredited analysis engines, and get your building performance results in minutes instead of weeks. The metrics you need Energy use and carbon emissions Understand your design’s impact on energy cost and CO2 emissions while also measuring the potential impact of a renewable system. Thermal comfort See how shading improves operative temperatures and measure the impact of window openings on air temperature. Daylight Choose between Daylight Factor, Direct Sun Exposure, and Annual Daylight outputs (including Spatial Daylight Autonomy sDA). HVAC Quickly assess the impact of your architectural features on HVAC sizes and generate preliminary sizes to improve cost estimation.

Sefaira

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Sol design + consulting

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Net Zero Energy Home, a post-occupancy assessment

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