Residential buildings with low heat demand

The impact of design variables on the heat demand of residential buildings in the Netherlands

Master thesis (2017)

Authors

M.A. Nicolaï Architecture and the Built Environment

Contributors

S.C. Jansen (supervisor 1)
E.J. van der Zaag (supervisor 1)
Faculty
Architecture and the Built Environment
Copyright: © 2017 Marc Nicolaï
Insulation Sustainable design Building physics Heat demand Compactness Solar architecture Heat demand reduction
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Published Date

29-06-2017

Language

English

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Faculty

Architecture and the Built Environment

Abstract

This study is about the impact of early design decisions on the heat demand of a small residential building. Heat demand is a significant part of the energy use of residential buildings in the Netherlands. Reducing this demand will reduce the strain on national energy resources and even allow buildings to become energy neutral or independant with the addition of energy supply and storage systems.

Based on a case study building of 8 appartments, the simulation study explores the impact of several individual design aspects: insulation, orientation of glass facades and building shape. Furthermore the balcony facade of the case study building is compared to a plain facade and a sunspaces (balconies with a glass facade) in terms of heat demand and comfortable use (operative temperature).

Based on these studies the case study building is completely re-designed with the goal of reaching a minimal level of heat demand. Based on these studies and the re-design a final set of design guidelines is developed for designers interested in designing small residential buildings with low heat demand.