Towards human-centred intelligent envelopes: A framework for capturing the holistic effect of smart façades on occupant comfort and satisfaction

Intelligent buildings have the potential to simultaneously revolutionise the way humans live and reduce energy demand in buildings. In particular, the so-called, smart / dynamic / adaptive building envelope can selectively modulate the energy transfer between the building and its environment in response to transient outdoor conditions and indoor requirements, thereby providing a low-carbon means of achieving occupant satisfaction and well-being. However, the effect of smart facades on holistic occupant comfort and satisfaction with the environment is yet to be fully captured and quantified. This information is essential for evidence-based design and control of smart building envelopes. In this paper, the smart façade characteristics that underpin satisfactory environmental conditions are identified and metrics for their transient and holistic assessment are discussed. A methodology to capture the effect of smart façades on the holistic occupant comfort and satisfaction is then proposed together with its implementation into an early stage design tool. Finally, a ranking system is suggested to assess and compare alternative smart façade technologies according to their overall effect on user satisfaction and productivity for a UK climate.