Integration of building simulation into the design process of an architecture practice

A key barrier to the acceptance of simulation within building design has been identified as the fact that it is not fully integrated into the design process. The project described in this paper attempts to address this barrier by embedding modelling as a standard component of design practice procedures within an architectural practice. Important elements of the research that are described in the paper are:

• identifying the role building simulation can play at the different stages of design;
• developing a model description that evolves through the design process as the building design becomes more highly specified;
• simplifying the user interface at the early stage of the design where rapid feedback is required and where most impact can be made on the building’s energy and environmental performance;
• customising results  presentation  to  be appropriate for the particular stage of design; and
• implementing these  simulation  concepts, observing their acceptability, and addressing quality assurance and training issues.