Optimizing User Comfort level and Energy Efficiency through Responsive Façades using Parametric Design

Contemporary architectural structure, which relies on the extensive use of curtain walls particularly in the realm of high-rise structures, has increasingly focused on enhancing energy efficiency while ensuring user comfort. Through the application of sophisticated parametric design techniques, the function of façades has taken on greater significance. Thermal, visual, and acoustic elements all play a significant part in occupant pleasure and productivity, making user comfort in buildings a multifaceted notion. The research aims to investigate the potentials of responsive façades by using parametric design in order to improve energy efficiency and user comfort levels. Grasshopper plugin in Rhino 7 was used to carry out the design and modelling of the façade. Ladybug and honeybee plugins were used to carry out the energy simulation and analysis of the modelled façade for a closed office structure. The responsive façade reduced the solar heat gain of the office by 58.2% in summer but the solar heat gain in winter also decreased by 67.0%. Responsive façades which rely on some sets of algorithmic rules have the potential of not just making buildings energy efficient but can also supply buildings with the needed energy for operation thereby promoting the reduction of carbon emission.