Performance Optimization of a Simplified Passive Design Space in Diversified Climatic Contexts

Abstract

Purpose: Building design optimization could be performed in various ways. In most cases, potential design alternatives are evaluated against multi-criteria performance indicators through iterative create-test processes. Especially for the early design stage, optimum passive design of a building tends to be more critical and needs to be investigated rigorously. This study focuses on building passive design optimization in different global regions considering their climatic characteristics. Site location, building orientation, wall construction, and glazing assemblies are considered to be primary passive design variables. Objective functions for optimization include occupancy comfort, capital cost, and life-cycle cost. Method: By utilizing DesignBuilder’s genetic-algorithmbased optimization tool, a single-room type highly simplified spatial unit virtually being located in 5 different global regions (Jakarta, Cairo, Buenos Aires, Seoul, and Resolute) is evaluated and optimized against two essential design criteria. Result: It is turned out that passive building design in different climatic contexts may lead to a different set of strategies to minimize occupant’s discomfort and life-cycle cost. The research outcome shows that the lowest solar transmission glazing assembly, which is critical for optimum passive design strategy in cooling-dominated regions may not function properly in the locations where tropical hot-humid weather prevail.