This issue of Perkins&Will Research Journal includes three articles that focus on different research topics, such as an analytical study of bedroom types in four different building typologies, impacts of thermal bridging effects in exterior walls on buildings’ energy performance, and analysis of design techniques for students’ residence halls, specifically designed for international students.
“The Overnight Bed: An Analytical Study on Bedroom Types” discusses characteristics of bedroom typologies in four different building sectors—students’ residence halls, private dwellings, hotels and healthcare facilitates. The article compares spatial requirements, design methods and synergies between strategies for bedroom design. Research methods included literature review, qualitative and quantitative assessments and design explorations. The article concludes that there are certain similarities between different design methods and offers new solutions for future bedroom design that supports wellness, relaxation and privacy.
“Additive vs. Area-Weighted Thermal Resistance in Building Facades: Assessment of Thermal Bridging Effects on Buildings’ Energy Performance” investigates the effects of thermal bridging in building envelopes. Research methods included data collection, energy modeling for a case study building (sports and recreation building), and comparative analysis of results. Energy modeling was used to determine energy consumption for the case study building, where the thermal resistance of exterior walls was varied to account for thermal bridging effects. Results show that modeled energy consumption was higher when area-weighted thermal resistance was used, which accounts for thermal bridging in facades. The results were also compared to actual energy consumption data collected over a period of one year and indicate that area-weighted approach provides more accurate results.
“I-House: A Study on Residence Halls Uniquely Designed for Housing International Students” explores architectural, spatial, cultural and residential life programs in students’ residence halls for international students. Research methods included literature review, case studies, observations and interviews, and aimed to discover how to support student success. The study concludes with recommendations that could be adopted by academic institutions to enhance the international student experience and improve social, academic success and sense of community.
