EARLY DESIGN EVALUATION OF HOSPITAL BUILDING MORPHOLOGY ON ENERGY PERFORMANCE IN DIFFERENT CLIMATES OF EUROPE

Abstract

Globally, sustainability is gaining importance in the construction industry, driven by environmental and economic factors. European directives prioritize improving energy performance in buildings, including hospitals, as they serve as examples of implementing green building principles. Hospital design now focuses on creating a healing environment rather than just functionality. However, limited research exists on thermal requirements of patients in hospitals, necessitating further exploration. The energy performance of buildings is significantly influenced by their geometry. While hospital building morphology has been studied, the impact of climate and orientation in these buildings remains unexplored. To conduct a thorough analysis of the overall energy performance of the buildings, specific design variables like building shape and orientation are thoughtfully selected. The findings highlight the effectiveness of optimizing the building's geometry in achieving a considered reduction in annual energy demand and enhancing thermal comfort inside the building. Additionally, recommendations are provided regarding the appropriateness of different building typologies for various climate contexts. Simulations using the Design Builder interface for Energy Plus generate a framework for early design decisions, aiding the decision-making process.