We consistently work towards incorporating energy-saving tactics into the buildings we design. We are committed to energy-efficient spaces and reducing the environmental impact of each building.
This month we’re looking at the Hardiman Research Building at the National University of Ireland, Galway (NUIG). The new building is designed with a strong sustainable agenda, including raised floors for displacement ventilation throughout most of the spaces, natural ventilation in the atrium for energy savings and smoke evacuation, a footprint that maximizes natural light and façades that have been site-specifically designed to allow for maximum daylight penetration and views with a minimum of solar gain. Each façade is climatically responsive, with an open transparent façade facing north, horizontal sunshades facing south and the skinny twin-skin facing west.
THIN TWIN-SKIN
For the building’s western exposure, a double-skin façade system was developed to mitigate solar gain and decrease cooling load. Called the skinny twin-skin, the relatively shallow system is comprised of separate double glazed curtainwalls on either side of a naturally ventilated cavity. Motorized solar shading devices, within the cavity, are linked to the building automation system and used to control glare. The interior portion of the system is operable, allowing for access to the cavity for maintenance purposes.
of building area is naturally ventilated
reduction in heat flow due to the skinny twin-skin when compared to a traditional double pane window
of building area with access to daylight
of building area with views to the exterior
Cape Cod Community College’s Frank and Maureen Wilkens Science and Engineering Center is a net-positive energy building designed to transform the heart of campus.
The project approaches sustainability through a holistic and global approach, implementing a range of moves including passive solar shading overhangs, air-source heat pumps, high performance materials with low embodied carbon and the expansion of the range of thermal comfort and lighting power density. Combined with on-site photovoltaics, the project achieves net-positive energy use.
The project’s thermally modified wood rainscreen façade is a study of the modern expression of vernacular Cape Cod architecture while reducing embodied carbon. Early lifecycle assessments identified the immense carbon savings of wood over fiber cement. The design team did not stop there, furthering reductions by peeling back unnecessary finishes like carpet and ceilings. Together, these decisions enabled a 19% reduction in embodied carbon.
#earthweek #designalways #buildingscience #performalism #netpositive #capecodmodernism #capecod #newengland