The Role of Retrofits in Architecture Education
- Mohsenin Mahsan (Florida A&M University)
Abstract
Although there is a wide range of retrofit technologies readily available, methods to identify the most cost-effective retrofit measures for particular projects is still a major technical challenge. The current study looks into the role of retrofits and repair in architecture education and aims at evaluating alternative retrofit solutions for a campus building to improve building performance. The pilot study is located in a hot and humid climate, including an atrium on a campus building, where the results are applicable to similar buildings. This research is novel in terms of testing retrofits in architecture education, using Building Energy Modeling on a campus building.
The methodology used in this research is mainly an experimental research approach, using Autodesk Revit and DOE-2 as its computer simulation engine. Retrofit actions studied include insulation, windows, renewable energy, and efficient lighting. Retrofits could be understood as a method of ethical use of resources and restoration of the cultural architecture of an area. However, there is not much discussion about retrofits in the architecture curriculum, except for hints in urban design lectures. This study made an attempt to provide a research opportunity for graduate students to fill this gap.
The results demonstrated simulation outcomes for adaptive reuse alternatives on a campus building, providing an open discussion on the value of adding retrofit in architecture education.
Keywords: Retrofits, Pedagogy, Building Performance
How to Cite:
Mahsan, M., (2018) “The Role of Retrofits in Architecture Education”, Building Technology Educators’ Society 2019(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.7275/btes.468
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