Design procedures for an average saudi villa using integrated green building techniques

Abstract

Sustainable design or building "green" is an opportunity to use our resources efficiently while creating healthier buildings. This paper discuss general and initial design procedures and measures for designing a moderate sized residential Saudi villa using integrated green building concepts and strategies. Design factors such as orientation, house form, windows shape, as well as utilization of passive solar features, high levels of efficient insulation and taking advantage of natural cooling/heating and ventilation will be considered. Technological features will include applying alternative energy sources such as solar power, reducing water use, and using high-efficiency lighting and appliances to minimize electricity use. This work targets to integrate all design aspects (electrical - mechanical - architectural) in such a way that achieves at least a 50% reduction of common single family Saudi villa energy consumption working under Saudi environmental and climatic conditions. © 2012 WIT Press.