Daylight performance of an adaptive façade shading system integrated on a multi-storey office building

Abstract

Adaptive façade design plays a key role in energy performance and sustainability considering the thermal, lighting, acoustic, and visual occupants’ comfort as well as aesthetics, economics and durability. In this research, adaptive modifications have been conducted to an existing external shading system of a multi-storey office building. The considered design parameters are the orientation and depth of the shading systems, as well as the rotation, width and distance between the embedded louvers. The parametric analysis has been conducted with Archsim Energy Modeling and DIVA plugin in Rhino/Grasshopper linked with EnergyPlus simulation engine. The simulation study refers to Athens, Greece with typical Mediterranean climate set on clear sky with sun. Due to the south-west building orientation, four case studies in different point-in-time with four thermal zones demonstrate the illuminance. The analysis evaluates the effectiveness of the shading system according to the Air Temperature and Windows Total Transmitted Solar Radiation Energy. The simulation analysis indicates that the adaptive façade system provides an optimal and functional lighting for indoor comfort while preventing the façade from overheating. Future research refers to the optimization of the thermal performance and ventilation of the proposed adaptive façade system.