learnt about super low energy savings

• 60% energy savings

• Zero Energy

• Positive Energy

During this week, I encountered Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and discovered it to be both demanding and fun. I am excited about collaborating with others to investigate subjects such as ultra-low energy, where we will discover ways to develop environmentally friendly solutions through the use of sustainable resources, ensuring lasting advantages for the future.

Working alongside peers in project-based learning will enable us to address genuine global issues, like sustainability, and create a meaningful impact.

Furthermore, I became familiar with the FILA (Fact, Idea, Learning, Action) model, which has improved my ability to tackle problems by assisting in the arrangement of information, the creation of concepts, and the contemplation of insights gained.

SWOT Analysis

I gained insight into SWOT analysis, which serves to analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats pertinent to a specific project or environment. Our assignment is to conduct a SWOT analysis of the Temasek campus in preparation for the upcoming presentation on SWOT.

Conducted a SWOT analysis presentation focused on the TP campus, where I explored various strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with the institution.

Strengths:

• Low Window-to-Wall Ratio

• Strategic Window Placement

• Tinted Windows

Weakness

• Traffic Congestion

• Limited expansion space

Opportunities

• Development of More Amenities

• Sustainable Initiatives

Threats

• Environmental Threats

• Drainage Issues

• Risk of Flooding

This week, our focus was on conducting a site assessment for the TP campus project, where we examined environmental factors, accessibility options, and how effectively the space can be utilized. By performing a SWOT analysis, we were able to highlight our strengths, which include collaborative environments and environmentally conscious attributes, while also recognizing challenges like congestion and limited shade. We collaborated as a team to categorize our project, making certain that each member understood their specific role in contributing effectively.

This conversation helped me comprehend the impact of these shortcomings on both the efficiency of buildings and the comfort of their occupants. This understanding will be beneficial for suggesting enhancements to the design in later phases of the project.

I explored Glulam (Glued Laminated Timber) and examined how it compares to Cross Laminated Timber (CLT). Although both are types of engineered wood, they have distinct structural characteristics and uses. In contrast to CLT, which consists of several layers of wood glued together at right angles, Glulam is mainly utilized for structural elements like beams and columns, while CLT is better suited for constructing walls and floors.

Image reference Source : https://www.dpa.com.sg/projects/dulwich-college/

The building's roof is covered in a white finish, which reflects sunlight and brightens the solar panels installed on both sides below, improving their capacity to capture solar energy. This approach overcomes the limitation of space that is often a concern in numerous facilities when it comes to solar panel installation.

In addition, I explored solar heat gain assessments and daylighting simulations to fine-tune the facade design and maximize the effectiveness of natural illumination. I explored the specifications of materials, focusing on Mass Engineered Timber (MET) and advanced glazing solutions, to improve sustainability efforts. As I progress, I will improve the intricate design proposal, weaving in knowledge gained from these studies for the final presentation.

Through an analysis of various case studies, I investigated different approaches to green walls, rainwater collection, solar energy systems, and natural lighting methods, confirming their compatibility with sustainability objectives. In the future, I plan to enhance the visuals and notes in my presentation, integrating feedback to improve my design proposal.

I investigated the choice of eco-friendly materials to improve energy performance and the comfort of those using the space. Furthermore, I polished my initial design sketches and analyzed various case studies to bolster my design justification. In the future, I plan to incorporate simulations and additional assessments to confirm the effectiveness of my approaches.

The main suggestion I got was to include triangular-shaped gardens in the design of the landscape. By implementing this plan, we can increase plant coverage, facilitate passive temperature regulation, and improve the overall look, contributing to a more comfortable outdoor environment. Going forward, I will adjust my landscaping strategies to better align with eco-friendly objectives.

Primary duties consist of optimizing layout planning, creating facade aesthetics, executing analyses for sunlight and airflow patterns, and selecting green materials to improve ecological performance.

Moreover, I will work on refining the landscape architecture and making required adjustments to the facade to elevate its environmental effectiveness. Another crucial focus will be on generating elevation illustrations for skylights to better convey daylighting techniques. As I progress, I will incorporate these changes and elevate the quality of the design report.

Furthermore, I examined and processed the ETTV calculations to verify their precision and adherence to standards for the comprehensive design submission.

This week, a major responsibility of mine involved addressing uncertainties related to the intricate design phase. I gathered input and improved my strategies for spatial arrangement, exterior design, and the choice of eco-friendly materials. In addition, I dedicated my efforts to crafting interior space designs that comply with universal design standards, employing Revit to generate 3D representations and detailed schematics of my proposed layouts.

In order to back up my design rationale, I advanced in compiling the ESD analysis report. This involved executing calculations for the lighting power budget, analyzing the life cycle of materials, and determining the Envelope Thermal Transfer Value (ETTV). The evaluations yielded insights based on data that improved the design's sustainability as a whole. As the due date for submissions draws closer, I am dedicating my efforts to wrapping up my digital A1 storyboard panel, which depicts the evolution of the design from the initial site analysis to the comprehensive design phase. This presentation will thoroughly explain the reasoning behind my design decisions and eco-friendly approaches. As I progress, I intend to make certain that my work fulfills the project criteria and successfully expresses my design objectives.

By dealing with these uncertainties, I optimized my approach to applying environmentally sustainable design (ESD) concepts in my in-depth design proposal. The results of this analysis allowed me to make well-informed choices regarding facade design, spatial configuration, and the use of sustainable materials.

Going ahead, I plan to incorporate these revelations to wrap up my intricate sketches, spatial arrangements, and necessary documentation for submission.