Smart Sustainable Office Design - Effective Technological Solutions, Based on Typology and Case Studies

Abstract

In order to achieve global sustainability, by a factor of 20 environmental improvement is necessary. Assessments indicate a marginal improvement of office buildings. A more effective approach is therefore required. In the year 2002, we assessed 12 Dutch 'normal' government office buildings on environmental criteria, e.g. energy and water consumption, the use of building materials, and commuter travel. This case study clarified the most important parameters and building elements contributing to sustainability. In order to compare the environmental impact of different design alternatives, determine the improvement potential, and find effective solutions, over the last three years, typology studies were conducted, e.g. of the building geometry, bearing structure, and building facade. These studies presented provide directions for smart sustainable technological design solutions, effectively contributing to the factor 20. In the paper, we also discuss limitations of technological solutions for sustainability.