L.T.F. van Krugten, L.M.C. Hermans, L.C. Havinga, A.R. Pereira Roders and H.L. Schellen
Earlier studies assume that historical dwellings and post-war dwellings in particular, are less sustainable than modern dwellings, justifying its demolition. Over time, historical…
Abstract
Purpose
Earlier studies assume that historical dwellings and post-war dwellings in particular, are less sustainable than modern dwellings, justifying its demolition. Over time, historical buildings have been transformed and their energy performance improved. However, there is little known on the energy performance of historical dwellings. The purpose of this paper is to unveil the role of historical dwellings and its transformations in improving urban sustainability.
Design/methodology/approach
In this research, historical dwellings (built=1970) are distinguished in listed and unlisted dwellings. Three cities were selected as case study – Amsterdam, The Hague and Rotterdam – and three post-war neighborhoods – New-West, Mariahoeve and Ommoord. This research uses the difference in energy label (original vs current performance) to discuss the transformations of dwellings: comparing modern and historical; post-war and other historical; and listed and unlisted dwellings.
Findings
Findings reveal that historical and post-war dwellings have great potentials to raise the energy performance e.g. by applying after insulation and renewable energy sources. Furthermore, The Hague and its post-war neighborhood Mariahoeve have a considerably lower energy performance. Further research could relate the raising of energy performance to the cultural significance of such dwellings, to better discuss the role of attributes and their transformation to raising energy performance.
Originality/value
This paper addresses the knowledge gap of the current energy performance of historical dwellings, by presenting and discussing its role in improving urban sustainability.
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Chiara Bertolin and Elena Sesana
The overall objective of this study is envisaged to provide decision makers with actionable insights and access to multi-risk maps for the most in-danger stave churches (SCs…
Abstract
Purpose
The overall objective of this study is envisaged to provide decision makers with actionable insights and access to multi-risk maps for the most in-danger stave churches (SCs) among the existing 28 churches at high spatial resolution to better understand, reduce and mitigate single- and multi-risk. In addition, the present contribution aims to provide decision makers with some information to face the exacerbation of the risk caused by the expected climate change.
Design/methodology/approach
Material and data collection started with the consultation of the available literature related to: (1) SCs' conservation status, (2) available methodologies suitable in multi-hazard approach and (3) vulnerability leading indicators to consider when dealing with the impact of natural hazards specifically on immovable cultural heritage.
Findings
The paper contributes to a better understanding of place-based vulnerability with local mapping dimension also considering future threats posed by climate change. The results highlight the danger at which the SCs of Røldal, in case of floods, and of Ringebu, Torpo and Øye, in case of landslide, may face and stress the urgency of increasing awareness and preparedness on these potential hazards.
Originality/value
The contribution for the first time aims to homogeneously collect and report all together existing spread information on architectural features, conservation status and geographical attributes for the whole group of SCs by accompanying this information with as much as possible complete 2D sections collection from existing drawings and novel 3D drawn sketches created for this contribution. Then the paper contributes to a better understanding of place-based vulnerability with local mapping dimension also considering future threats posed by climate change. Then it highlights the danger of floods and landslides at which the 28 SCs are subjected. Finally it reports how these risks will change under the ongoing impact of climate change.
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Roy Botman and Jos van Schijndel
The purpose of this paper is to present a tool for simulating heat sharing opportunities between multiple buildings.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present a tool for simulating heat sharing opportunities between multiple buildings.
Design/methodology/approach
The approach is based on a building simulation model, HAMBase, in combination with an analytical programming code using MatLab.
Findings
The tool provides a quick insight in possibilities for district heat sharing. It is able to operate without using too many parameters. From the results, it can be derived that storage tanks provide a great advantage in performance over the direct heat demand and supply method.
Research limitations/implications
The main limitations are as follows: the used models are based on assumptions plus values derived from literature and a verification that is based on energy balance rules; and the MatLab code is verified by checking for possible errors, but is not completely validated.
Originality/value
The main value of the work is that the presented methodology behind the tool is generally applicable and implementable in other models.
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Oluwatobi Nurudeen Oyefusi, Victor Adetunji Arowoiya and Melissa Chan
The construction industry in developed countries is witnessing a paradigm shift towards modular construction methods, driven by the need for efficiency, sustainability, and…
Abstract
Purpose
The construction industry in developed countries is witnessing a paradigm shift towards modular construction methods, driven by the need for efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. However, the realization of these benefits in the context of developing countries is hindered by numerous barriers. Against this backdrop, this study seeks to contribute insights into the barriers hindering the adoption of modular construction in developing countries, specifically Nigeria, and further formulate effective strategies.
Design/methodology/approach
A thorough review of existing literature was conducted to identify the multifaceted barriers hindering the adoption of modular construction and the corresponding strategies. Subsequently, a panel of 13 experts were invited to utilize the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) approach to systematically evaluate these barriers based on their impact. Furthermore, the experts implored the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) approach to select and prioritize the most suitable strategies to mitigate these barriers.
Findings
The study revealed that the most critical barriers to modular construction are Client resistance to change and innovation, Limited experience in module installation, and Transportation constraints. Additionally, the study prioritizes 13 strategies, with the Development of effective guidelines, standards, and policies ranked highest. The insights from the ranking using the FAHP and TOPSIS approach were adopted to develop a framework for modular implementation in developing countries.
Research limitations/implications
This study is limited to Nigeria due to its status as the country with the highest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Africa, and it is considered a suitable representation of the region as most of the countries in Africa are categorized as developing nations.
Practical implications
By highlighting the most critical barriers and prioritizing effective strategies, the study provides actionable insights for overcoming obstacles to modular construction adoption. Decision-makers can use this information to develop targeted policies and training programs to promote the adoption of modular construction in developing countries.
Originality/value
The research provides valuable insights by not only identifying critical barriers but also presenting prioritized strategies, distinguishing itself from previous studies, and establishing itself as a novel resource for developing countries. This adopt a novel hybrid MCDM approach for modular construction in developing countries such as Nigeria which can serve as reference point to other developing countries seeking to adopt modular construction and leverage its numerous benefits.
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Fuad Baba, Jihad Awad, Yazan Elkahlout and Mohammed Sherzad
This paper aims to compare the impacts of adaptive daily and seasonal cooling setpoints on cooling energy consumption and overheating hours to determine which approach is more…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to compare the impacts of adaptive daily and seasonal cooling setpoints on cooling energy consumption and overheating hours to determine which approach is more effective in a desert climate, develop a methodology that effectively integrates passive strategies with adaptive daily and seasonal cooling setpoint strategies and assess how future climate conditions will impact these strategies in the medium and long term.
Design/methodology/approach
(1) Integrate adaptive thermal comfort principles into mechanical cooling systems to find the optimized cooling setpoint. (2) Evaluating the optimized cooling setpoints using a mixed-mode operation: In this step, the natural ventilation is activated by opening 40% of the window area when the indoor temperature is higher than 23°C and the outdoor temperature. Both the adaptive seasonal and daily setpoint strategies are evaluated. (3) If overheating hours exceed acceptable limits gradually add mitigation measures (e.g. exterior shading, cool roofs and green roofs). (4) If necessary, further reduce the cooling setpoint until acceptable limits are met. (5) Generate extreme future climate scenarios and evaluate the optimized model. (6) Implement additional measures and setpoint adjustments to maintain acceptable overheating hours in future conditions.
Findings
Although the building complies with the Dubai Green Code and uses external shading, its cooling energy consumption was 92 kWh/m² in 2021 with a 24°C setpoint. Using the adaptive seasonal setpoint combined with a cool roof, night cooling and cross-ventilation reduces cooling energy consumption by 52, 48 and 35% in 2020, 2050 and 2090, respectively, with overheating hours not exceeding 40 h annually. Using an adaptive daily setpoint strategy with the same mitigation measures is similarly effective; it achieved a 57, 42 and 34% reduction in cooling energy consumption in 2020, 2050 and 2090, respectively, while eliminating overheating hours.
Originality/value
The originality and value of this study lie in optimizing cooling setpoints without the effect of overheating hours in desert climates. Using the adaptive seasonal setpoint combined with a cool roof, night cooling and cross-ventilation reduces cooling energy consumption by 52, 48 and 35% in 2020, 2050 and 2090, respectively, with overheating hours not exceeding 40 h annually. Using an adaptive daily setpoint strategy with the same mitigation measures is similarly effective; it achieved a 57, 42 and 34% reduction in cooling energy consumption in 2020, 2050 and 2090, respectively, while eliminating overheating hours.
Highlights
- (1)
A methodology is developed to find the optimal cooling setpoints
- (2)
Adaptive thermal comfort concept is extended for integration with a cooling system
- (3)
Validation simulation model is used using certain building information
- (4)
Climate change effect is studied using current and future warmer typical years
- (5)
Effective passive summer mitigation measures are studied
A methodology is developed to find the optimal cooling setpoints
Adaptive thermal comfort concept is extended for integration with a cooling system
Validation simulation model is used using certain building information
Climate change effect is studied using current and future warmer typical years
Effective passive summer mitigation measures are studied
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Ali Hassan Ali, Ahmed Farouk Kineber, Ahmed Elyamany, Ahmed Hussein Ibrahim and Ahmed Osama Daoud
This study aims to identify the most significant barriers and the stationary barrier to modular construction (MC) implementation and promote MC widespread use. By doing so, the…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to identify the most significant barriers and the stationary barrier to modular construction (MC) implementation and promote MC widespread use. By doing so, the construction industry can leverage the benefits of MC, such as faster construction times, improved quality control, reduced waste and increased sustainability.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses a Gini’s mean analysis approach to identify the stationary barriers hindering the MC adoption in residential projects. The research focuses on the Egyptian context and uses a questionnaire survey to gather data from professionals in the construction industry.
Findings
According to the survey findings, the top five significant MC barriers are inability to modify the design; contractors asking for high bidding prices (higher initial cost); scepticism, conservation and resistance of clients to innovation and change; transportation restrictions; and lack of a one-size-fits-all tool for the design. In addition, Gini’s mean of dispersion demonstrated that the stationary barrier that faces MC adoption is the apprehension that architectural creativity will suffer because of MC.
Practical implications
The identified obstacles could be useful for decision makers in countries that have not yet adopted MC and may aid in the planning process to manage the risks associated with MC projects. The paper stresses the significance of devising techniques to overcome these barriers and proposes several methods to tackle these challenges.
Originality/value
This study fills the knowledge gap by identifying the stationary barrier and emphasising the potential risks associated with MC barriers. Furthermore, it suggests several strategies for overcoming and reducing these barriers in developing countries residential projects.
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Nurul Hayati Yong, Qi Jie Kwong, Kok Seng Ong and Dejan Mumovic
As suggested in many previous studies, good thermal comfort and indoor air quality (IAQ) played a significant role in ensuring human comfort, health and productivity in buildings…
Abstract
Purpose
As suggested in many previous studies, good thermal comfort and indoor air quality (IAQ) played a significant role in ensuring human comfort, health and productivity in buildings. Hence, this study aims to evaluate the thermal comfort and IAQ conditions of open-plan office areas within a green-certified campus building through a post occupancy evaluation.
Design/methodology/approach
Using the field measurement method, environmental dataloggers were positioned at three office areas during office hours to measure the levels of thermal comfort parameters, CO2 concentrations and the supply air rates. At the same time, questionnaires were distributed to the available office staff to obtain their perception of the indoor environment. The findings were then compared with the recommended environmental comfort ranges and used to calculate the thermal comfort indices.
Findings
Results show that the physical parameters were generally within acceptable ranges of a local guideline. The neutral temperature based on the actual mean vote at these areas was 23.9°C, which is slightly lower than the predicted thermal neutrality of 25.2°C. From the surveyed findings, about 81% of the occupants found their thermal environment comfortable with high adaptation rates. A preference for cooler environments was found among the workers. Meanwhile, the air quality was perceived to be clean by a majority of the respondents, and the mean ventilation rate per person was identified to be sufficient.
Research limitations/implications
This study focussed on the thermal environment and air quality at selected office spaces only. More work should be carried out in other regularly occupied workplaces and study areas of the green educational building to allow a more thorough analysis of the indoor air conditions.
Practical implications
This paper highlights on the thermal comfort and air quality conditions of the air-conditioned office spaces in a green-certified campus building and is intended to assist the building services engineers in effective air conditioning control. The findings reported are useful for thermal comfort, IAQ and subsequently energy efficiency improvements in such building type where adjustments on the air temperature set-point can be considered according to the actual requirements. This study will be extended to other green campus spaces for a more exhaustive analysis of the indoor environment.
Originality/value
There is limited information pertaining to the environmental comfort levels in offices of green campus in the tropics. This study is, therefore, one of the earliest attempts to directly explore the thermal comfort and IAQ conditions in such workplace using both on-site physical measurement and questionnaire survey.
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Negar Hassanizadeh and Esmatullah Noorzai
The inappropriate lighting methods can have irreversible effects on artworks available in museums and exhibitions. Several factors affect the choice of the lighting system in the…
Abstract
Purpose
The inappropriate lighting methods can have irreversible effects on artworks available in museums and exhibitions. Several factors affect the choice of the lighting system in the museums. By surveying all possible elements, this paper aims to propose a sustainability-based solution, as it relates to the development of artwork conservation, visual perception and energy efficiency during operation and maintenance (O&M).
Design/methodology/approach
The paper elicits optimal solutions out of the method presented based on functions and expert opinion to improve lighting quality in existing museums. To study the optimization, the energy consumption and life cycle cost (LCC) in both the proposed lighting and the existing lighting system are compared using HoneyBee and LadyBug plugins in GrassHopper, as well as BLCC5 energy cost estimation software.
Findings
The results indicated a practical method to select the most suitable solution for museum lighting. By applying the proposed solutions obtained from the case study, a significant reduction in energy consumption and LCC were achieved. Besides, greenhouse gases were remarkably decreased.
Practical implications
Providing the proper lighting systems for each museum is the issue that is given special attention during the facilities management. The quality of the lighting, energy consumption and costs are analyzed by the simulation software. It is recommended that the validity considerations of the practice are examined.
Originality/value
The present study tried to present an optimal method to choose the best lighting system by the simultaneous utilization of theoretical and practical aspects. The functional model is also introduced for performing the most effective method to enhance the lighting techniques in the art museums.
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Negar Hassanizadeh, Esmatullah Noorzai and AbdolReza Mohseni
The purpose of this study is to identify effective lighting criteria in the museum from two theoretical and practical points of view.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to identify effective lighting criteria in the museum from two theoretical and practical points of view.
Design/methodology/approach
Assessment of theoretical and practical weight of criteria was taken with the aim of concurrent attention in scientific and executive. Finally, ten effective criteria were identified by the Pareto chart.
Findings
The findings of this study represents a centralized reference source of the most important criteria and also effective guidance to improve the lighting quality and effective guideline to improve the lighting quality and operational fluency.
Practical implications
The paper can help the lighting experts, contemporary designers and future researchers to enhance the lighting function in art museums and design based on needs as well as up-to-date techniques.
Originality/value
Lighting as a fundamental element in the existing art museum has a significant impact on the better understanding of the artworks by the viewers. On the other hand, according to the importance of protecting valuable museum artefacts, lighting can have an effective or destructive impact on them directly. But with consideration of different museum lighting, there is a large range of effective lighting criteria that can choose the right methods harder.
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Chiara Bertolin and Filippo Berto
This article introduces the Special Issue on Sustainable Management of Heritage Buildings in long-term perspective.
Abstract
Purpose
This article introduces the Special Issue on Sustainable Management of Heritage Buildings in long-term perspective.
Design/methodology/approach
It starts by reviewing the gaps in knowledge and practice which led to the creation and implementation of the research project SyMBoL—Sustainable Management of Heritage Buildings in long-term perspective funded by the Norwegian Research Council over the 2018–2022 period. The SyMBoL project is the motivation at the base of this special issue.
Findings
The editorial paper briefly presents the main outcomes of SyMBoL. It then reviews the contributions to the Special Issue, focussing on the connection or differentiation with SyMBoL and on multidisciplinary findings that address some of the initial referred gaps.
Originality/value
The article shortly summarizes topics related to sustainable preservation of heritage buildings in time of reduced resources, energy crisis and impacts of natural hazards and global warming. Finally, it highlights future research directions targeted to overcome, or partially mitigate, the above-mentioned challenges, for example, taking advantage of no sestructive techniques interoperability, heritage building information modelling and digital twin models, and machine learning and risk assessment algorithms.