Architectural Design Consultant
Sustainable Design, Architectural Energy Modeling, Daylighting, Moisture/Thermal Analysis

I am a design consultant for architects in the San Francisco Bay Area and ocasionally in other parts of the United States. I use computer simulation tools to help small architecture firms design high performing buildings. In additional to traditional architectural work, I assist small architectural firms with sustainable design strategies, climate analysis, energy modeling, daylighting analysis, and moisture/thermal analysis. I have compiled the answers to a few questions often asked of me.

Please feel free to contact me if you would like additional information about my services or qualificaitons. If you need immediate assistance on a project, please call me at (510) 863-0206. Thank you.

Philip Luo, Architect, LEED AP
 

Sell Sustainable Design to Clients

Clients want evidence that design ideas work before they are willing to commit. Architects can use modeling software to test design ideas and illustrate how they result in energy savings. I can produce quantitative data that helps your client understand your design concepts. Read more...

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are you expensive?
2. Why do I need energy modeling?
3. Do I need daylighting?
4. Can you work with architects outside your area?
5. Can you help me with traditional architectural work?

Q. Are you expensive?
Not at all. Unlike pricey consultants, I do not have a high salary nor liability insurance. My current rate is $75/hr and I can tailor my scope of services to my client's budget.

Q. Why do I need energy modeling?
Most architects think that only mechanical engineers can benefit from energy modeling. In sustainable buildings, the envelope design has a great impact on energy efficiency and comfort of occupants. I use EnergyPlus to help optimize the energy efficiency of the building through layout, orientation, solar shading, building materials, glazing, and daylighting. The same energy model can be used by the mechanical engineer to simulate the performance of the HVAC system.

Q. Do I need daylighting?
Daylighting is the use of natural light to reduce artificial lighting in buildings. Since artificial lighting accounts for 30% of the energy used by a typical office building, utilizing daylight can make a significant impact on the energy efficiency of buildings. Also, daylit buildings are perceived by users as being more comfortable.

Q. Can you work with architects outside your area?
I mostly work with Architects in the San Francisco Bay Area. However, I have worked with clients in other parts of the United States. I can work with clients outside my area if they need a straightforward study and are willing to work with me by email/phone.

Q. Can you help me with traditional architectural work?
Most of my work right now is traditional architectural work. I can help you with design, documentation, detailing, or contract administration.

I Invite You To Contact Me For More Information
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Articles:

• ENERGY: Designing Net-Zero Buildings with EnergyPlus
• DAYLIGHTING: Integrate Daylighting into Sustainable Buildings
• BUILDING ENVELOPE: Thermal and Moisture Analysis

Design Studies:

• Hotel and Conference Center, Napa, CA
• Veterinary Hospital, San Ramon, CA
• Retail Building, San Bruno, CA
• Office Building, San Bruno, CA
• Entertainment Center, Littleton, CO

Projects:

• Art Museum: Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts
• High Tech: 3Com Singapore Asia-Pacific HQ
• Advertising: McCann Erickson Offices
• Communications: Accenture Communications Center
• Internet: E*Trade Headquarters Tennant Improvement