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Article
Publication date: 26 December 2023

Hiral Patel and Gabriela Zapata-Lancaster

This paper aims to highlight a broader definition of good building performance that goes beyond the traditional emphasis on technical aspects, only adopting the lens of the social…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to highlight a broader definition of good building performance that goes beyond the traditional emphasis on technical aspects, only adopting the lens of the social construction of technology (SCOT) in the empirical space of the workplace sector. Several building performance evaluation (BPE) methods focus on technical aspects such as energy consumption, indoor environmental conditions and compliance with building regulations and standards. Technical aspects, albeit important goals, only embed a partial component of what buildings are expected to deliver. There is growing interest in considering the organisational and experiential expectations of building performance, particularly integrating various views of performance as expected by different user groups.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts an archival research method to analyse the archive of the workplace consultants DEGW, particularly focusing on their work on London’s Broadgate development in the 1980s and the 1990s.

Findings

The findings reveal how voices from a pluralistic client organisation can be addressed to articulate a broad definition of building performance that integrates different viewpoints encompassing technical, organisational and experiential expectations. In DEGW’s work, the views on building performance of various stakeholders involved in the everyday use and management of buildings are identified without imposing predetermined agendas or research notions of performance. Particular emphasis is given to understanding clients as not a homogenous entity but consisting of different interest groups, which implies multiple conceptualisations of building performance and the building itself.

Research limitations/implications

The performance expectations of a building vary between organisations and even within any organisation. Moreover, the needs of an organisation will change over time, and the BPE criteria need to be changed to ensure better alignment between organisations and the physical spaces they occupy. A critical reflection on the conceptualisation of “users” and “building” in BPE methods is required to create an integrated approach towards building performance.

Originality/value

The paper offers insights by adopting the theoretical lens of SCOT to explore an integrated approach to building performance that captures the varied needs of building users through the example of London’s Broadgate development.

Details

Journal of Corporate Real Estate , vol. 26 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-001X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 September 2023

İrem Bekar, Izzettin Kutlu and Ruşen Ergün

This study aimed to design a user-participatory methodology to investigate the post-occupancy sustainability of reused historical buildings and to apply it to a case study.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aimed to design a user-participatory methodology to investigate the post-occupancy sustainability of reused historical buildings and to apply it to a case study.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was designed in four stages. In the first stage, the sustainability parameters and sub-parameters were determined in the reused historical buildings based on the literature. The second stage included a field study in which the current situation of the study area was analysed, and the users were reached using the survey technique. In the third stage, the data obtained from the user participation were analysed with importance performance analysis (IPA) and an IPA matrix was created. The fourth stage included an evaluation of the results of the analysis and the development of recommendations.

Findings

IPA is a supportive method for ensuring the sustainable use of historic buildings. According to the data obtained from the IPA, it was seen that the functional sustainability of the building was achieved to a great extent. At the same time, there were deficiencies in technical and environmental sustainability. In terms of aesthetic sustainability, it was observed that the importance and performance values given by the users were generally consistent with each other.

Originality/value

The originality of this study is that the performance of the reused historical buildings in the process of use was monitored with appropriate parameters, and a user-participated method was proposed that allows improvement suggestions to be developed in line with the results obtained.

Details

Open House International, vol. 49 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0168-2601

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 September 2022

Visar Hoxha and Veli Lecaj

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the regulatory barriers to achieving sustainable buildings in Kosovo. The present paper focuses on regulatory barriers viewed from the…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the regulatory barriers to achieving sustainable buildings in Kosovo. The present paper focuses on regulatory barriers viewed from the perspective of construction industry experts in achieving sustainable buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study uses a qualitative research method and semi-structured interviews as a research instrument. The present study interviews around 20 experts in construction and property management, property development, spatial planning and energy management.

Findings

The study finds that Kosovo building laws and regulations provide for the materials assessment criteria, but the materials assessment criteria are only for mechanic strength. The study further finds that the sustainability concept is not included and incorporated in Kosovo's urban planning laws and regulations. The study also finds that despite specific clauses mentioning energy performance certificates in the Law on Energy Performance of Buildings in Kosovo, energy performance certificates appears to be not enforced and the nature of the barrier is more organizational rather than regulatory. Finally, the study finds that Kosovo laws are silent as far as green labeling of building materials is concerned.

Practical implications

The implication of the present finding is that policymakers in Kosovo not only should include clear sustainable materials assessment criteria in the law, but also enforce those criteria through testing and inspection mechanisms included in the law and implemented in practice through funding and organizational support. Nonetheless, policymakers in Kosovo should contemplate amending the urban planning laws in Kosovo and include both the term of sustainability at the planning level and conformity guidelines for sustainable design that can be done at the administrative directive level. Further, the clauses in the law do not suffice if the clauses are not accompanied by specific systemic and organizational support in the issuance of energy performance certificates. Policymakers in Kosovo should be proactive in designing clauses that specify green labeling standards for materials; however, these labeling standards should not adversely affect the cost of construction and reduce the demand for real estate.

Originality/value

The study is the first qualitative study about the perception of construction professionals in Kosovo, regarding the regulatory barriers of sustainable buildings in Kosovo.

Details

Property Management, vol. 42 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-7472

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 August 2022

Abdulrahman Alafifi, Halim Boussabaine and Khalid Almarri

This paper aims to examine the performance efficiency of 56 real estate assets within the rental sector in the UAE to evaluate the relative operation efficiency in relation to…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the performance efficiency of 56 real estate assets within the rental sector in the UAE to evaluate the relative operation efficiency in relation to revenue generation.

Design/methodology/approach

The data envelopment analysis (DEA) approach was used to measure the relative operational efficiency of the studied assets in relation to the revenue performance. This method could produce a more informed and balanced approach to performance measurement.

Findings

The outcomes show that scores of efficiencies ranging from 7% to 99% in some of the models. The results showed that on average buildings are 75% relatively less efficient in maintenance, in term of revenue generation, than the benchmark set. Likewise, on average, the inefficient buildings are 60% relatively less efficient in insurance. Result also shows that 95% of the building assets in the sample are by and large operating at decreasing returns to scale. This implies that managers need to considerably reduce the operational resources (input) to improve the levels of revenue.

Research limitations/implications

This study recommends that the FM operational variables that were found to inefficiently contribute to the revenue should be re-examined to test the validity of the findings. This is necessary before generalising or interpolating the results that are presented in this study.

Practical implications

The information obtained about operational performance can help FM managers to understand which improvements in the productivity of inefficient FM resources are required, providing insight into how to reduce operating costs and increase revenue.

Originality/value

This paper adds value in using new FM operational parameters to evaluate the efficiency of the performance of built assets.

Details

Journal of Facilities Management , vol. 22 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1472-5967

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 May 2022

Mohammad A. Hassanain, Muizz Oladapo Sanni-Anibire and Abubakar Sadiq Mahmoud

This study aims to present the post-occupancy evaluation (POE) of a smart building on a university campus.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to present the post-occupancy evaluation (POE) of a smart building on a university campus.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature review was conducted to report on the smart building concept and POE. A total of 49 performance indicators, classified according to the technical, functional and behavioral elements, were investigated. A case study of a smart building in a university campus was selected to assess the users’ satisfaction through POE. A total of 90 users from the academic and administrative staff of the building were contacted through a Web-based questionnaire survey, while 35 usable responses were obtained.

Findings

The findings revealed that the occupants were satisfied with several aspects of the building performance indicators; however, issues related to ventilation, control of thermostats, amount of natural lighting through low-E windows and privacy were identified. Ultimately, the study reveals that, although the adoption of smart technologies has the potential to provide an excellent and comfortable work environment, the efficient selection and/or maintenance of the adopted technologies is crucial.

Originality/value

The concept of smart buildings is perceived to be the future of the industry. Despite this growing need for “smartization,” the performance of a building ultimately depends on how it satisfies the needs of those who use them. The value and implication of this study is inherent in its emphasis on the satisfaction of buildings users in futuristic designs of buildings. The study shows that POEs can be used to assess the satisfaction of users of smart buildings to understand what works, as well as what needs redesign or improvement.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. 22 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 28 June 2024

Ebere Donatus Okonta and Farzad Rahimian

The purpose of this study is to investigate and analyse the potential of existing buildings in the UK to contribute to the net-zero emissions target. Specifically, it aims to…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate and analyse the potential of existing buildings in the UK to contribute to the net-zero emissions target. Specifically, it aims to address the significant emissions from building fabrics which pose a threat to achieving these targets if not properly addressed.

Design/methodology/approach

The study, based on a literature review and ten (10) case studies, explored five investigative approaches for evaluating building fabric: thermal imaging, in situ U-value testing, airtightness testing, energy assessment and condensation risk analysis. Cross-case analysis was used to evaluate both case studies using each approach. These methodologies were pivotal in assessing buildings’ existing condition and energy consumption and contributing to the UK’s net-zero ambitions.

Findings

Findings reveal that incorporating the earlier approaches into the building fabric showed great benefits. Significant temperature regulation issues were identified, energy consumption decreased by 15% after improvements, poor insulation and artistry quality affected the U-values of buildings. Implementing retrofits such as solar panels, air vents, insulation, heat recovery and air-sourced heat pumps significantly improved thermal performance while reducing energy consumption. Pulse technology proved effective in measuring airtightness, even in extremely airtight houses, and high airflow and moisture management were essential in preserving historic building fabric.

Originality/value

The research stresses the need to understand investigative approaches’ strengths, limitations and synergies for cost-effective energy performance strategies. It emphasizes the urgency of eliminating carbon dioxide (CO2) and greenhouse gas emissions to combat global warming and meet the 1.5° C threshold.

Details

Urbanization, Sustainability and Society, vol. 1 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2976-8993

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 June 2024

Gyanesh Gupta, Sanjay Mathur and Jyotirmay Mathur

Buildings require significant energy, and meeting energy demands is becoming exceedingly challenging. Energy demand reduction goals are now prioritised as the demand is rising…

Abstract

Purpose

Buildings require significant energy, and meeting energy demands is becoming exceedingly challenging. Energy demand reduction goals are now prioritised as the demand is rising. Energy-saving improvements and opportunities can be provided if enough information is provided through building energy benchmarking. The study focuses on developing a framework for benchmarking the energy efficiency of residential buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applied multiple linear regression analysis to analyse the energy use of residential buildings and establish energy benchmarks. Over 2000 data from Jaipur city were surveyed, and regression analysis was done on 1527 datasets after fundamental statistical analysis. The research considered the significant energy used by household appliances and placed a greater emphasis on end-use appliances.

Findings

The comparison of the developed framework with the standard rating plan was carried out to evaluate the accuracy of the benchmarks. The validation of the model determines the gap between the predicted and actual value of the building energy. The recommendations were made for organisations and policymakers to employ multiple or combinations of methods to assess the reliability of the developed benchmark framework.

Practical implications

Policymakers may promote awareness campaigns encouraging homeowners to consume less energy and make buildings more energy efficient. This technique may be applied worldwide with the proper and suitable adjustments and information provided.

Originality/value

To our knowledge, India needs residential building energy benchmarking framework studies. In addition, a new framework based on Composite Indicators was implemented to overcome the scepticism of the EPI/BPI or floor-based approach held by several academics and to offer energy benchmarking for residential buildings.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 May 2022

Md Hamidul Islam, Md. Abu Safayet and Abdullah Al Mamun

In response to rising energy prices and growing environmental concerns, there is a growing demand for environmentally friendly building facilities. This study investigates…

Abstract

Purpose

In response to rising energy prices and growing environmental concerns, there is a growing demand for environmentally friendly building facilities. This study investigates optimizing energy consumption and improves the level of accuracy when selecting suitable materials and components with minimal impact on the overall energy consumption of buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was carried out from the perspective of an educational building's energy simulation, using a validated building energy analysis tool Green Building Studio (GBS). There were eight parameters analyzed considering at least two connected variables without measuring the initial building configuration. After that, Autodesk Revit and Insight 360 were used to make similar scenarios of the best performance selections so that the general results could be compared and the initial hypothesis could be proven.

Findings

In this study, the initial building analysis showed that there was an annual energy use of 139 kBtu/sf and the estimated carbon emissions were about 156 tons/yr. After the parametric analysis, the maximum energy saving was about 32.38%, considering the best performance scenario with a reduction of CO2 emissions of around 28.85%.

Originality/value

The outcome of this study will help Bangladeshi architect/designers to make appropriate decisions regarding the selection of suitable building materials and components at the initial stage of any project in terms of the energy consumption aspects. In addition, energy-efficient buildings provide cleaner combustion and better circulation than traditional buildings, that is why they reduce indoor air pollution, maintaining a safe, healthy and sustainable environment for future generations.

Details

International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, vol. 42 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-4708

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 August 2023

Mohammad A. Hassanain, Ibrahim Al-Suwaiti and Ahmed M. Ibrahim

This paper aims to provide an exemplary application of an indicative post-occupancy evaluation (POE) on an organizational multistorey residential apartment building.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an exemplary application of an indicative post-occupancy evaluation (POE) on an organizational multistorey residential apartment building.

Design/methodology/approach

This research comprises of mixed qualitative and quantitative approaches. The methodology commences with a review of the recent literature, identification of performance elements, conduct of walk-through, distribution and collection of users' surveys and the development of short and long-term recommendations, where an adequate sample of users were approached for conducting a focus group interview session.

Findings

The research identifies 74 performance elements that were clustered into technical, namely (thermal, acoustic and visual comforts, indoor air quality and safety and security), functional, namely (design adequacy, finishing, furnishing, fittings and equipment and building surroundings) dimensions and behavioral, namely (apartment building attributes and managerial and logistical support). The questionnaire survey aimed to solicit users' opinions upon the occupied case study residential facility.

Originality/value

The research identifies areas of occupants' satisfaction and dissatisfaction in a typical multistorey residential building, as a part of a community housings for a mega organization, located in Saudi Arabia. The identification of these areas serves as a lesson learned for future developments, design considerations and implications. Hence, improving the well-being and comfort of its employees.

Details

Archnet-IJAR: International Journal of Architectural Research, vol. 18 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2631-6862

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 August 2023

Xian Yun Tan, Norhayati Mahyuddin, Syahrul Nizam Kamaruzzaman, Norhayati Mat Wajid and Abdul Murad Zainal Abidin

Commercial buildings, which include office buildings, are one of the three major energy-consuming sectors, alongside industrial and transportation sectors. The vast increase in…

Abstract

Purpose

Commercial buildings, which include office buildings, are one of the three major energy-consuming sectors, alongside industrial and transportation sectors. The vast increase in the number of buildings is a positive sign of the rapid development of Malaysia. However, most Malaysian government office buildings tend to consume energy inefficiently due to lack of energy optimization. Most of the previous studies focused on the performance of green buildings in fulfilling the green development guidelines. As such, it is essential to study the energy performance of existing government office buildings that were constructed before most energy-efficient standards were implemented to mitigate energy wastage due to the lack of energy optimization. This study aims to analyse the energy performance of existing non-green Malaysian government office buildings and the factors that influence building energy consumption, as well as to evaluate the efficacy of the existing energy conservation measures.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was conducted by a literature review and case study. The chosen buildings are six government office building blocks located in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. In this study, a literature review has been conducted on the common factors affecting energy consumption in office buildings. The energy consumption data of the buildings were collected to calculate the building energy intensity (BEI). The BEI was compared to the MS1525:2019 and GBI benchmarks to evaluate energy performance. SketchUp software was utilized to illustrate the solar radiation and sun path diagram of the case study buildings. Finally, recommendations were derived for retrofit strategies based on non-design factors and passive design factors.

Findings

In typical government office buildings, the air-conditioning system consumed the most energy at 65.5%, followed by lighting system at 22.6%, and the remaining 11.9% was contributed by office appliances. The energy performance of the case study buildings is considered as satisfactory as the BEI did not exceed the MS1525:2019 benchmark of 200 kWh/m2/year. The E Block recorded the highest BEI of 183.12 kWh/m2/year in 2020 due to its north-east orientation which is exposed to the most solar radiation. Besides, E Block consists of rooms that can accommodate large number of occupants. As such, non-design factors which include higher occupancy rate and higher cooling demand due to high outdoor temperature leads to higher energy consumption. By considering passive design features such as building orientation and building envelope thermal properties, energy consumption can be reduced significantly.

Originality/value

This study provided a comprehensive insight into the energy performance of Malaysian government office buildings, which were constructed before the energy-efficient standards being introduced. By calculating the BEI of six government office buildings, it is found that the energy performance of the case study buildings fulfils the MS1525 benchmark, and that all their BEIs are below 200 kWh/m2/year. Malaysia's hot and humid climate significantly affects a building's cooling load, and it is found the air-conditioning system is the major energy consumer of Malaysian government office buildings. This study discusses the efficacy of the energy-saving measures implemented in the case study buildings to optimize energy consumption. Recommendations were derived based on the non-design factors and passive design factors that affected the energy consumption of the case study building. It is envisioned that this study can provide practical strategies for retrofit interventions to reduce energy consumption in Malaysian office buildings as well as for office buildings that are in a similar climate.

Details

Open House International, vol. 49 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0168-2601

Keywords

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