Bending the Curve: Four case studies showcasing the adaptability of Passive House design

Learning Objectives 

1. Participants will learn varied methods and concepts of how to apply the Passive House Design standard to large, multi-story buildings.

2. Participants will learn the difference between prescriptive and performance-based design standards, and specifically how the Passive House performance-based standard allows the design team flexibility during the architectural process to respond to various program requirements, client expectations, and construction budgets.

3. The challenges and lessons learned from The House at Cornell Tech will be reviewed and participants will learn how these were applied to the design and construction for Sendero Verde, Winthrop Center, and University of Toronto Scarborough. The lessons will focus on the exterior envelope design, interior air quality and occupant comfort, HVAC systems, and how total energy demand is lowered in large buildings (>200,000 SF).

4. Attendees will learn some of the challenges presented by designing extremely energy-efficient buildings. They will then discover some innovative solutions that can be applied to all projects, even those without clear sustainability objectives.