USDOE energy standard compliance test on two-story office building.

摘要

There exists some skepticism in the design community regarding the ability to design an aesthetically pleasing building that meets the interim energy conservation standard for new commercial buildings initiated by the US Department of Energy. In response to this, a study was undertaken to demonstrate that compliance with energy standards does not mean giving up the architectural intent of a building. An unusual and architecturally pleasing building design was chosen for this study. This two-story office building has a large, central atrium, made almost entirely of glass. It is the building's focal point, lending an inviting atmosphere to the interior spaces but also poses a considerable challenge to the HVAC system to keep the building comfortable. The building was simulated and easily complied with the Standard, based on an annual energy cost comparison. Alterations to the original design affected neither the interior floor plan nor exterior elevations.