Introduction
The aim of this study is to develop a methodology to achieve energy efficient homes by applying a developed method in a selected study case. To clarify the presented methodology this paper presents resumed diagrams where the methodology stages are explained on detail. Then, a Latin American social house project is described and considered as a demonstration model.
Background
Low Energy housing could be seen as a practical solution to tackle the environmental issues( Williams 2012). Low Energy Homes are contemplated to be more expensive. In Latin America, most of the housing developers opt for mass production systems and even though they achieve low constructive prices, but the mid and long-term affordability is questioned. This study instead aims to develop a methodology that social housing designers could use to select design techniques and construction systems that help them to approach a more energy efficient home design and lower construction and maintenance costs. A methodology is a system used in a particular area of study or activity( Oxford English Dictionary, 2013). So, methodologies comprise principles, guidelines, best practices and methods relating to a particular discipline such as interaction design or user research( Gabriel-Petit, 2010). However, it is general agreed that design is a process rather than a method, while a process is holistic in nature and is devised with a specific goal in mind( Pressman, 2012). Therefore, this study aims to create a methodology that supports the design process based on the Latin American climatic, cultural and economic context; therefore, its applicability in other regions could be questioned.
Proposed methodology definition
This methodology should be used during the decision-making process, which is consider to be an explorative phase where a significant modifications can be done( Xu, et al., 2006). Not only energy aspects are considered to be enhanced with this methodology. The proposed methodology is divided in the following 5 consecutive stages: custom design approach, standardisation, energy efficiency upgrading, selecting the accurate choice and post-occupancy customisation, which respond to a specific objective. Each stage is characterised for a different interaction between users, designers and ESTs. The methodology procedure is summarised in the following diagram and each stage is further explained in following sections of this study( Fig. 1).
448 ZEMCH 2015 | International Conference | Bari- Lecce, Italy