Energy Conscious Design

Abstract

Energy conscious design mainly refers to design approach which involves holistically addressing energy performance of a building throughout the design process, aiming to minimise energy demands and consequently provide sustainable structure with reduced carbon footprint. Energy retrofit of existing buildings is seen as one of key strategies in building sector that should contribute to carbon neutral goals (European and worldwide) in the forthcoming years, especially in the regions with accumulated architectural heritage where the pace of new construction is very low. While energy conscious design is still mainly focused on buildings’ operating energy, the embodied energy is perceived as an issue that should be further addressed since the share of embodied energy will rise as the operating energy is reduced. The same goes for the energy needed for disassembly of building components, reuse and recycling of materials and products. The awareness of the scope of issues relevant for energy conscious design, as well as adequate design strategies and tools are necessary in the formation of architects that should shape our built environment through 21st century.