Design support tool for low-energy dwellings: identifying early design default values through a parametric study

Abstract

Architects are increasingly challenged to design low-energy buildings. Considering the importance of early decisions for the final building performance, early design support for architects is necessary. A research project has been established to develop a design tool, supporting architects in the decision-making process of low-energy single-family dwellings. This paper focuses on adapting the required data-input for the tool to the limited available input of early design phases, while providing valuable feedback. A parametric study is conducted, examining the impact of design parameters on the energy performance of dwellings and defining adequate default values. The validity of the default values is demonstrated in case studies.