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This paper sets out to highlight several aspects of a project, aimed at developing an advanced thermal comfort guideline, based on the adaptive thermal comfort theory.

The paper introduces the new Dutch adaptive guideline for thermal comfort. The initial method exceeding hours (TO) is discussed, as well as the more recent method of weighted temperature exceeding hours (GTO). An evaluation of the practical and theoretical shortcomings of the TO and GTO methods is discussed, as well as the rationale behind the adaptive ATG guideline. Furthermore, the results are presented of computer simulations in which the predictions of the different methods are compared. Productivity effects of the new guideline are also discussed, as well as the implications for cooling system sizing and energy efficiency.

The adaptive temperature limits (ATG) guidelines appears to be a more reliable method for the assessment of thermal comfort, in particular for passive, free‐running buildings, compared with the PMV‐based method of weighted temperature exceeding hours (GTO). Furthermore, the ATG method allows for a wider temperature range for Alpha type buildings and gives more opportunity for the development of sustainable, naturally ventilated buildings and limiting cooling energy.

Although the new ATG method shows promising results, more research is needed. The exact distinction between Alpha and Beta is still subject to further research, as well as the question whether a certain amount of exceeding hours of the ATG limits should be accepted.

The ATG method is being used in The Netherlands for the assessment of thermal comfort in the design stage as well as in the assessment of the performance of buildings in use.

This paper discusses the first application of the adaptive thermal comfort theory in a practical guideline.

Sustainable and resilient infrastructure projects aim to reduce flooding impacts and improve community adaptability. For instance, flood-resistant stilts elevate structures, mitigating flood damage. Comprehensive consideration is crucial when adding elements to housing projects, incurring costs for all involved parties. This study aims to assess the viability of concrete stilts for cost-effective flood mitigation in Malaysian terrace housing.

The study evaluates cost implications through a comparative 5D building information modeling (BIM) cost analysis of stilted and conventional (standard) housing models. This assesses the percentage increase in total cost. Furthermore, a survey of construction professionals was undertaken. The study used online convenience and stratified sampling techniques. Out of the 222 emails that were sent, 27 construction professionals located in Johor, Sabah and Selangor within Malaysia participated in the research survey. Their perspectives on stilt housing prospects and factors for costing such structures were analyzed through a descriptive analysis using SPSS.

The case study models revealed that the incorporation of stilts could lead to a 21.64% increase in the overall cost per unit. This cost increase was primarily attributed to the additional reinforcement required. However, the survey findings highlighted that a majority of construction professionals perceived the cost increment to fall within the range of 10%–20%. Consequently, it becomes imperative to meticulously consider cost factors such as foundational requirements, staircases, and the extended construction duration to effectively curtail expenditures. The prospect of heightened costs potentially posing a threat to profit margins and discouraging developers necessitates careful financial management. Notwithstanding these challenges, the survey's insights underscored that professionals in the construction industry indeed recognize the potential of stilt technology in the realm of flood mitigation and management, particularly within housing projects.

This research has significant practical implications. It provides a precise financial contrast between housing categories using 5D BIM and incorporates construction experts’ viewpoints on raised housing. Enhanced design considerations for raised housing can make it economically viable, offering a cost-effective, nature-based approach to flood mitigation. This approach can bring substantial benefits to residents by reducing flood-related damages and enhancing community resilience.

One of the notable aspects of this research is its originality. It uses a dual quantitative methodology involving modeling and survey techniques to address its objectives effectively. This approach contributes significantly to the relatively limited body of research focused on stilt housing and the application of 5D BIM. By combining these methodologies, the study explores a relatively uncharted area, making a valuable contribution to the field.