The design and construction of the appropriate building envelope is one of the most effective ways for improving a building’s thermal performance. Thermal Inertia in Energy Efficient Building Envelopes provides the optimal solutions, tools and methods for designing the energy efficient envelopes that will reduce energy consumption and achieve thermal comfort and low environmental impact. Thermal Inertia in Energy Efficient Building Envelopes provides experimental data, technical solutions and methods for quantifying energy consumption and comfort levels, also considering dynamic strategies such as thermal inertia and natural ventilation. Several type of envelopes and their optimal solutions are covered, including retrofit of existing envelopes, new solutions, passive systems such as ventilated facades and solar walls. The discussion also considers various climates (mild or extreme) and seasons, building typology, mode of use of the internal environment, heating profiles and cross-ventilation Experimental investigations on real case studies, to explore in detail the behaviour of different envelopes Laboratory tests on existing insulation to quantify the actual performances Analytical simulations in dynamic conditions to extend the boundary conditions to other climates and usage profiles and to consider alternative insulation strategies Evaluation of solutions sustainability through the quantification of environmental and economic impacts with LCA analysis; including global cost comparison between the different scenarios Integrated evaluations between various aspects such as comfort, energy saving, and sustainability

Welcome to "Mastering the Building Envelope: A Comprehensive Guide to Designing for Energy Efficiency and Thermal Comfort." This book is a culmination of years of experience, research, and innovation in the field of sustainable architecture and construction. The building envelope, often overlooked or underestimated, plays a critical role in the performance of a structure. It serves as the interface between the interior and exterior environments, influencing energy consumption, occupant comfort, and overall building sustainability. As our society increasingly prioritizes environmental stewardship and energy conservation, the importance of optimizing the building envelope has never been greater. In this book, we aim to provide architects, engineers, builders, and students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices involved in designing and constructing high-performance building envelopes. From selecting appropriate materials to implementing advanced energy-efficient technologies, each chapter delves into essential concepts and practical strategies to achieve optimal results. Throughout these pages, you will find: Detailed explanations of building envelope components, including walls, roofs, windows, and doors, with a focus on their role in energy efficiency and thermal comfort. Insights into passive and active design strategies aimed at reducing energy consumption and enhancing occupant well-being. Guidance on assessing performance and compliance with energy codes and standards, as well as tools and resources for evaluation. Case studies highlighting successful projects from around the world, showcasing innovative approaches and lessons learned. Discussions on emerging trends and future directions in building envelope design, including net-zero energy buildings and climate resilience. Our goal is not only to inform but also to inspire. By embracing the principles outlined in this book, you have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the built environment, creating spaces that are not only environmentally responsible but also comfortable, healthy, and enjoyable for occupants. We hope that "Mastering the Building Envelope" serves as a valuable resource in your journey toward sustainable design and construction. Together, let us strive to create buildings that not only stand the test of time but also contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future. Thank you for joining us on this journey.

This book presents select proceedings of the International Conference on Visionary Action towards Liveable Urban Environments (VALUE 2020). Various topics covered in this book include context responsive architecture, green architecture, energy efficient buildings, energy conservation, inclusive spatial environments, security in buildings and cities, green/smart/ intelligent architecture, sustainable mobility and smart communities. This book will be a valuable reference for students, researchers, and professionals interested in built environment and allied fields.

Bei Neubauten wird von den meisten Industrieländern langfristig das Ziel von Netto-Nullenergiegebäuden verfolgt. Dieses Buch hilft Planern bei der optimalen Nutzung von Simulationstools für die Planung von Netto-Nullenergiegebäuden. In dem Buch werden sowohl moderne Modellierungstechniken als auch eingehende Einzelfallstudien vorgestellt. Das Buch wurde von international renommierten Experten erarbeitet und ist im Rahmen folgender Forschungsvorhaben der Internationalen Energieagentur entstanden: Solar Heating and Cooling Programme (SHC) und Energy in Buildings and Communities Programme (EBC).

In this book we seek to approach the architecture-energy combination and its relationship to human comfort and the environment .There are chapters on thermal comfort, low energy architecture dealing with various criterion for comfort in different parts of the World. The book also seeks to understand how previous generations lived in harsh climates and without abundant sources of energy, yet managed to design and build appropriate dwellings providing both comfort and harmony with the environment. Other chapters deal with the bioclimatic concept in Vernacular Architecture; the major role which climate plays at different locations and how this can dictate the shape and form of the buildings and save energy; the importance of micro-climate and its various elements and usage; ventilation and its importance in buildings and the technology for modern architecture.

This book is the result of recent research that deals with the built environment and innovative materials, carried out by specialists working in universities and centers of research in different professional fields ─ architecture, engineering, physics ─ and in an area that that spans from the Mediterranean Sea to the Persian Gulf, and from South Eastern Europe to the Middle East. This book takes the necessity of re-shaping the concept of building design in order to transform buildings from large scale energy consumers to energy savers and producers into consideration. The book is organized in two parts: theory and case studies. For the theoretical part, we chose from the wide range of sources that provide energy efficient materials and systems the two that seem to be endless: the sun and vegetation. Their use in building products represents a tool for specialists in the architectural design concept. The case-studies presented analyze different architectural programs, in different climates, from new buildings to rehabilitation approaches and from residential architecture to hospitals and sports arenas; each case emphasizes the interdisciplinarity of the building design activity in order to help readers gain a better understanding of the complex approach needed for energy efficient building design