Numerous studies have shown that buildings in the U.S. consume at least 30% to 50% more energy than they need to deliver present environmental qualities while at the same time not providing adequate air quality. This paper describes a range of architectural alternatives for improved indoor air quality and energy efficiency in commercial buildings. It argues for a complete reintroduction of regionalism in design through techniques such as "architecture unplugged," and "ascending" environmental conditioning strategies combined with "cascading" energy use strategies. This paper gives illustrative examples of high-performance buildings worldwide that manifest these approaches through the appropriate integration of enclosure and mechanical and interior systems.

Authors:Vivian Loftness, AIA, Volker Hartkopf, Dr.Ing., Stephen Lee, AIA, Ardeshir Mahdavi, Ph.D., Paul Mathew, Ph.D., Jayakrishna Shankavaram, Azizan Aziz
Citation:IAQ and Energy 98 Using ASHRAE Standards 62 and 90.1 Conference Papers
Keywords:October, Louisiana, 1998