The Building Envelope as a System – A Balanced Approach

One fundamental method to achieve deep green buildings is optimizing the envelope with the mechanical and electrical systems. Designers should consider the envelope as a system where heat, light, and air flow in both directions, rather than simply a barrier between the interior and exterior. The envelope can be designed to reduce energy loads and impact health and productivity through natural light and control of indoor environment. This can help achieve credits across multiple LEED product. This presentation will present the results of our exploration through integrated design and parametric analysis the impacts and opportunities associated with the building envelope when pursuing a deep green building. The presentation is based on multiple large Canadian commercial buildings each targeting net zero carbon.

We will present a methodology to use parametric analysis with whole building energy modelling to explore and understand the energy and carbon impacts of envelope options. The methodology and tools are straightforward and understandable by architects and owners, and can enable designers to invest more wisely in their envelope. The presenters include two senior Building Envelope Specialists, both LEED Fellows. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of how the envelope can contribute to energy reductions.

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