Toronto-based Diamond Schmitt Architects is taking a leadership role in the development of a sustainable design databank focused on energy-use reduction. The firm's new ecoMetrics tool allows for a comprehensive analysis of data from energy simulation models across a wide range of the company’s building types.
“What began as a response to The 2030 Challenge for energy efficiency in buildings evolved into a powerful, interactive visual database containing energy simulation models for more than 40 of our LEED certified projects and other projects with energy simulation models,” said Birgit Siber, Principal at Diamond Schmitt Architects. “This tool comes from the recognition that energy use in the building sector is the most difficult and pressing sustainable design challenge.”
The ecoMetrics database contributes to an informed discussion on appropriate energy use reduction targets among clients, consultants, trades, and architects by taking into consideration the many determinants of energy use efficiency, including location, building type, passive initiatives (orientation, massing, thermal performance) and active systems (mechanical and electrical systems), and distills the data into one simple formula: kWhr/m2/year, or kilowatt use per square metre of space per year.
“This allows for a detailed comparative analysis, which is a major step forward in informing energy demand decisions in the future,” said Mike Szabo Principal at Diamond Schmitt Architects. The ecoMetrics tool highlights design factors impacting energy efficiency, such as volume-to-floor area efficiency; ratio of glazing to wall; occupancy loads; and specific program requirements, including ventilation rates and HVAC system efficiency.
“The power of data visualization is that it allows us to break down the energy use equation in order to ask the right questions to facilitate and drive innovation,” Szabo added. “We’re measuring performance so that we can manage our projects, strive for net zero energy use, bring value to our client, our team, and contribute to the public discourse on energy use reduction."
Related Stories
Mixed-Use | Nov 16, 2015
Italian architect designs vertical forest with prefab units by BuroHappold
Cantilevered planters will host cedar trees and other plants hundreds of feet above ground.
Green | Nov 16, 2015
USGBC Working Group approves new guidance for LEED Materials & Resources Credit 4
Helps product manufacturers offer insight into material and supply chain sustainability
Green | Oct 30, 2015
First WELL-certified city district will be built in Tampa, Fla.
The plan calls for the construction of a $2 billion, 40-acre urban mixed-use development, where all buildings will pursue WELL Certification.
Sponsored | Green | Oct 22, 2015
Six-story living wall improves building performance at University of Ottawa
Benefits of the living wall include dust control and sound abatement.
Green | Oct 21, 2015
GBCI announces 2015 class of LEED Fellows
The 35 winners have demonstrated leadership within the green building movement.
Multifamily Housing | Oct 15, 2015
Montreal apartment is world’s largest residential cross-laminated timber project
Its 434 condo, townhouse, and rental units in three eight-story buildings are made from sustainably harvested wood turned into panels by Canadian company Nordic Wood Structures together with the Cree Nation in Chibougamau.
Green | Oct 5, 2015
ULI report: Commercial real estate properties cutting emissions, energy use
The new report from ULI’s Greenprint Center shows a positive trajectory of real estate properties worldwide reducing energy and water use.
Green | Oct 1, 2015
New York showcases an urban farm for public housing
Providing healthy foods and job training are two of this project’s missions.
Multifamily Housing | Sep 28, 2015
Vo Trong Nghia’s 'diamond lotus' will feature sky garden pathways linking high-rises
The 22-story housing complex in Ho Chi Minh City will have façades covered with plants and a rooftop garden that connects the structures.
Green | Sep 11, 2015
GBI releases Green Building Assessment Protocol for Commercial Buildings for public comment
Revised ANSI standard open for review through Oct. 26