Bio-climatic Design: Double Skin Facades Climate Implications on System Selection

Abstract

Double skin façade systems have gained popularity in recent years due to their aesthetic appeal as well as the potential for energy savings. The bio-climate design and technical solutions of a double skin facade are greatly influenced by climates, building locations, and building programs. The objective of the study was to assess energy saving potentials from a double skin façade compared to a single skin façade. Whole building energy simulation and computational fluid dynamic (CFD) analysis were carried out for summer and winter seasons for a building located in a cold climate. The analysis result indicates overall annual energy saving of 10% from a double skin façade compared to a single skin façade.