URBAN RESERVE _ Integrated Environmental Simulation Abstract In the past few years, the wide acceptance of CAD (Computer Aided Design) softwares has revolutionised the process of building design. They are capable of providing sophisticated technical, visual and quantitative outputs. But these outputs alone do not always lead to a desired result. As we know, buildings often do not perform as well in practice as they do on paper, nor even as measured during commissioning and maintenance operations. This is when the use of environmental simulation programs can prove paramount. It allows architects and engineers to monitor and gauge the impact of contemporary construction systems and energy models operating in buildings during the primary design phase. This helps provide building performance data and optimise resource consumption, thus resulting in a sound and sustainable output. The paper aims to examine the performance and environmental implications of the proposed sustainable design project (The Urban Reserve) in the Leith docks by using the Integrated Environmental Simulation software as a tool. It will primarily look at the optimal thermal comfort that can be achieved within the building which uses locally available materials while utilizing maximum solar gain, natural light and ventilation. It will also investigate the role they play in reducing the energy demand of the building.
Introduction As much challenging as it is to design a building that creates minimum environmental impact, it is equally difficult to design and execute a space that all people can feel comfortable in. A high level of sophistication can still be achieved with the correct approach. Even though these graphs vary, a comfortable and environmentally sound building should aim to address the following: • Maximizing site potential • Optimizing Energy Use • Protecting and conserving water • Use of low impact, locally available materials • Enhancing indoor comfort • Minimizing operational costs
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