A dynamic way of living throughout the seasons, as an alternative design approach for current energy-efficient housing concepts: a conceptual framework

Abstract

In the past, energy efficiency has been the main focus of sustainable housing in Flanders. The applied object-centred design approach, where the resident is seen as a static actor, is mostly directed at optimization of the building envelop to lower the energy consumption. However, current energy-efficient housing concepts induce new problems: higher material consumption and investments costs. Moreover, the lack of user interaction and inefficient occupant behaviour generate an increase in energy demand when the building is in use. Therefore, the research explores an alternative solution by means of a user-centred design approach to promote efficient use of the indoor environment where the resident is seen as a dynamic actor. The aim is to create an overview of current design challenges and propose new design criteria by means of a conceptual framework. Through a literature study, the research explores: the complex user interaction between dynamic resident, static building and seasonal changes; lack of user interaction in relation to occupant behaviour and comfort studies; definition and objective of user-centred design methodology. The resulting conceptual framework presents that implementation of active systems and high quantities of insulation can lead to a static, controlling and constant built environment. Secondly, the framework aims for providing varying climatic conditions, an adaptable and flexible built environment and guidance of the resident by stimulating an intuitive, easy-to-use living environment. Therefore, a user-centred design approach, is suggested which aims for more effective user interaction and efficient occupant behaviour in the living environment. The dynamic way of living throughout the seasons takes into account the varying comfort needs and diversified spatial preferences of a dynamic resident. The framework was implemented as design input in the conceptual phase of an educational pilot-study and serves as an incentive for the further development of an alternative dwelling concept for energy-efficient housing concepts.