Abstract
Equipping building envelopes with an additional layer is an effective measure for improving the overall thermal and daylighting performance and reducing the energy consumption of buildings. This study investigated the user acceptance of energy-saving retrofitting measures in office buildings, reporting on the view perception and emotional response towards ETFE double-skin façades (DSF). Virtual Reality (VR) and physics-based imaging techniques were used to evaluate the user experience of a window view in an office space equipped with a pneumatic ETFE cushion as a second building skin. Three DSF scenarios with different ETFE cushions, including a clear, fritted and switchable sample, were evaluated and compared to the original single-skin façade with double-glazed windows. The physical and luminous conditions of the office space were replicated in a virtual environment with a validated physically-based imaging technique and presented to a group of volunteers (N = 22) using a virtual reality headset. While immersed in the virtual environment, participants responded to a questionnaire enquiring into their view perception and emotional states. The results revealed a preference for view clarity of clear ETFE in double-skin façades (Mdn = 5) and less satisfaction for fritted (Mdn = 4) and switchable foil cushions (Mdn = 1.75), yet double glazing was preferred in all measured parameters (Mdn = 6). Statistical significance was found for fritted in comparison to switchable ETFE in terms of spatial pleasure and control. The highest ratings were given to clear glazing across all investigated parameters of view perception and emotional response. The lowest ranking in all questions was given to the sample with the switchable ETFE cushion. The study concluded that view clarity is a major aspect for the user acceptance of ETFE double-skin façades. Overall, this study provides a better understanding of the visual and emotional implications of viewing through ETFE foil and contributes to forming criteria for the design of next-generation ETFE building envelopes.
Highlights
Introduction and backgroundBuildings currently consume over 40% of primary energy in developed countries and contribute significantly to the global greenhouse gas emissions responsible for climate change
The results revealed a preference for view clarity of clear ETFE in double-skin façades (Mdn = 5) and less satisfaction for fritted (Mdn = 4) and switchable foil cushions (Mdn = 1.75), yet double glazing was preferred in all measured parameters (Mdn = 6)
This study set out to investigate the viewing experience and emotional response to different ETFE materials in climateadaptive double-skin façades which may play an important role as an effective measure in energy retrofitting office buildings, making them more resilient in a changing global climate
Summary
Buildings currently consume over 40% of primary energy in developed countries and contribute significantly to the global greenhouse gas emissions responsible for climate change. While the goal of the Paris agreement is to limit global temperature rise below an average of 1.5–2 °C [2], the latest International Energy Outlook by the U.S Energy Information Administration shows that energy consumption in the building sector is. Building energy consumption in developing countries is projected to grow even faster, with 2% annual increase due to economic growth and changing lifestyles.
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