An Integrated Performance Analysis Platform for Sustainable Architecture and Urban Infrastructure Systems

Abstract

This applied research brings together the performance analysis of a building's micro-scale and urban-infrastructure's macro-scale. A New York City lot, is serving as the background of experimentation with parametric design, performance simulation, data analysis and visualization. The paper describes the process of integrating design intentions, location parameters, climate data, material properties, and space quality and sustainability metrics into one platform. Although in-depth domain knowledge is irreplaceable, the paper argues that the exploration into contemporary, easily accessible and algorithmic simulation software, provides a unique educational opportunity for architects and students to integrate performance driven design in their every-day practice, and become aware of the consequences of their design on urban infrastructure systems. This allows them to reduce the time frame between design iterations and performance evaluation for the benefit ofbetter informed decisions.