Session: 02-04: Building Performance Analysis and Simulation

Paper Number: 133704

133704 - Integrated Workflow Development for Data-Driven Neighborhood-Scale Building Performance Simulation 

Abstract: 

In today’s cities, characterized by rapid industrialization and urbanization, buildings have emerged as significant contributors to energy consumption and carbon emissions. Accounting for approximately 30% of global final energy consumption and responsible for about 38% of CO2 emissions in the European Union and 30% in the United States, buildings are at the forefront of global efforts to mitigate climate change and reduce carbon footprints. However, the roadmap to achieving such carbon emission reductions in our cities is shrouded in complexity and uncertainty. This paper addresses the critical need for a systematic approach to reduce operational carbon emissions in urban neighborhoods, focusing on the integration of data-driven Building Performance Simulation (BPS) tools in the early-stage design process.

The complexity of achieving substantial carbon reduction in clusters of buildings requires a multifaceted approach, involving designers, policymakers, administrators, and tenants. Legislative shifts towards greener, more efficient buildings have promoted the evolution of BPS, pushing for the integration of data-driven tools. Data-driven tools offer a strategic approach for optimizing limited resources to assess energy consumption in buildings, allowing different stakeholders to make informed design decisions – especially in the early stages – and facilitating the formulation of relevant urban policies. This transition marks a new era in neighborhood urban design, promising enhanced simulation methods and their effective integration from the earliest design stages. However, the large quantity of modeling methods within BPS and the challenges related to data availability and structure remain significant obstacles, especially for integrating these techniques into existing and already robust workflows.

In response to these challenges, this paper presents a workflow integration developed through collaboration with multiple design firms across the US and EU. This workflow showcases the potential of integrating data driven Urban Performance Simulation (UPS) into the design process, offering a clear framework for early-stage energy performance forecasting. We highlight the processes, main tools, and methods required for effective UPS integration. Furthermore, this paper discusses the challenges and opportunities of implementing this integrated workflow in different urban scenarios, highlighting the adaptability and scalability of the proposed approach. Finally, this paper offers insights into the collaborative process between different stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of a unified approach in tackling the complex issue of urban sustainability.

By bridging the gap between data-driven tools and the design workflow, this paper contributes to the field of sustainable urban design, paving the way for more efficient, post-carbon buildings in cities around the world.

Presenting Author: Andrea Giuseppe di Stefano Politecnico di Milano

Presenting Author Biography: Andrea Giuseppe di Stefano is a PhD Candidate at Politecnico di Milano - Department of Architecture, Built Environment, and Construction Engineering. His academic journey also includes a period as a visiting researcher at Drexel University. He completed his Master's studies in Architecture and Building Engineering at Politecnico di Milano, supplemented by an enriching Erasmus experience at Universidad Politécnica de Valencia. His work is acknowledged through an honorable mention in the 2022-2023 international design call Piranesi Prix de Rome et d’Athènes with distinguished colleagues. Prior to his current studies, A. Giuseppe served as a Research Fellow in the BIM4EEB - Horizon 2020 EU funded project and garnered over four years of professional experience with international firms such as Arup, focusing on sustainability. He is a Licensed Architect, Chartered Engineer, and LEED Green Associate. In addition to his professional endeavors, A. Giuseppe contributes to the field through his innovative designs and dedication to sustainable architectural practices.

Authors:

Andrea Giuseppe di Stefano Politecnico di Milano
Matteo Ruta Politecnico di Milano
Gabriele Masera Politecnico di Milano
Simi Hoque Drexel University