Sell Sustainable Design to Clients with Energy Modeling, Daylighting, & Moisture/Thermal Analysis

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.

Energy Modeling with EnergyPlus (E+)

EnergyPlus is a new energy modeling software from the Department of Energy. Coupled with Open Studio, a SketchUp plugin, it becomes a useful design tool for Architects. I can quickly build a model of your design in SketchUp and give you immediate feedback on your design's energy usage. You can test ideas and build data to support your arguments. You can compare the impact of vairous strategies such as building orientation, solar shading, daylighting, low-e glazing, wall construction (insulation), and efficient HVAC. EnergyPlus can also calculate how much energy you can generate with Photovoltaic panels. Please read "Designing Net-Zero Buildings with EnergyPlus" for more information.

Daylighting Analysis with DiaLux

DAYLIGHT ILLUMINATION ON MARCH 21ST AT NOON (San Francisco)
(Useful daylight for office work is between 250 lux and 500 lux)

Artificial lighting accounts for up to 30% of the energy usage of typical office buildings. If you include the additional cooling required by heat generated by artificial lights, the total energy usage caused by artificial lighting could approach 50%. Using daylight to reduce the usage of artificial lighting can greatly increase the energy efficiency of buildings. I use Dialux, a professional lighting design software, to quickly model and calculate the daylighting potential of buildings. I can help you evaluate and optimize the impact of top lighting, sidelighting, atriums, light shelves, and sunshades. Please read "Integrate Daylighting into the Design of Sustainable Buildings" for more information.

Building Envelope Thermal & Moisture Analysis with THERM & WUFI-ORNL/IBP

Architects are frequently involved as defendants in mold contamination lawsuits. The old "rules of thumb" about designing for moisture control in the building envelope' may be contributing to the moisture building-up in some buildings. I can help you evaluate the effectiveness of your building wall assembly design. Using software developed by the Lawrence Berkeley National Lab and the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, I can develop a heat transfer model of your assembly and determine the risk of condensation. Please read "Building Envelope Thermal & Moisture Analysis" for more information.

Understand How Architects Work

Most people with aboved skills are trained as engineers. I am a Licensed Architect. I have two decades of experience in commercial, institutional, and residential buildings. I understand how Architects work and what clients need to know. I can work interactively with you to help you refine your design and build data for your client presentations.

Please feel free to contact me if you need more information about my skills or qualifications.

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