Post‐occupancy evaluation of the thermal environment in a green building

Abstract

Purpose

A green building should provide occupants with a comfortable and energy‐efficient environment. The aim of this paper is, following a post‐occupancy study, to find out whether the green intent is being delivered.

Design/methodology/approach

A post‐occupancy study was conducted in a high standard office building certified by China's Green Building Label. The study included an occupant survey and a physical measurement.

Findings

The building generally achieved its intended thermal environment of 25°C during cooling seasons and satisfied more than 80 per cent of occupants. Sources of discomfort, including low temperatures in both the summer and winter were identified. Objective measurements showed that the building's indoor temperature varied among floors in both the summer and winter. The variation was mainly a result of occupancy conditions. Variations in the thermal environment also revealed that the building's users have good energy conservation habits.

Research limitations/implications

Post‐occupancy evaluations should be included in the green building certification process to demonstrate a building's sustainability after construction and operation. Facilities management should take the responsibility to periodically examine the green intent being delivered.

Originality/value

The paper provides empirical data to expand the international post‐occupancy evaluation on green buildings. The building under study as a green design showcase represents current green building development in China.

Citation

Gou, Z. and Siu‐Yu Lau, S. (2013), "Post‐occupancy evaluation of the thermal environment in a green building", Facilities, Vol. 31 No. 7/8, pp. 357-371. https://doi.org/10.1108/02632771311317493