This research suggests the most effective way for improving energy efficiency in tall buildings is a ‘fabric first’ approach. This involves optimising the performance of the building form and envelope as a first priority, with additional technologies a secondary consideration. The paper explores a specific fabric first energy standard known as ‘Passivhaus’. Buildings that meet this standard typically use 75% less heating and cooling. The results show tall buildings have an intrinsic advantage in achieving Passivhaus performance, as compared to other low-rise buildings, due to their compact form, minimising heat loss. This means highrise can meet Passivhaus energy standards with double-glazing and mid-levels of insulation as compared to other typologies where triple glazing and superinsulation are commonplace. However, the author also suggest that designers need to develop strategies to minimise overheating in Passivhaus high-rise, and reduce the quantity of glazing typical in high-rise residential buildings to improve their energy efficiency.
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