B. Conceptual Design
The objective of this stage is to produce an optimal massing of the site through analysing of site orientation and maximise site utilisation and to create an efficient passive design using BIM tools. The potential achievements includes optimal design with considerations of the environmental conditions - minimal solar heat gain, optimal natural ventilation and efficient utilization of the site.
1. Initial Concept Massing
Software used: Revit 2014
A conceptual massing model is to be produced in this phase. It consists of building massing studies or other forms of data representation
with indicative dimensions, area, volume, location and orientation. Site location information along with the longitude and latitude,
true north orientation, and level and height information is required. Hence, floor plans and possibly site investigation may be required.
2. Conceptual Analysis
Software used: Vasari, Ecotect
With a few conceptual designs in mind (eg. O-shape VS T-shape), these building designs are used to run through the Sun Path Analysis, Wind Rose/Tunnel study and Environment/Climate study to decide which design is better (eg. less sun exposure and hence less heat absorption by the building) than the others and hence should be selected as the design to be used for the project.
3. Final Conceptual Design (Plan A, B, C)
Software used: Revit 2014, Vasari
From the previous steps and studies, the final design can be selected based on the results and anaylsis produced. The best orientation that the building should be facing to reduce heat entry and heat absorption from the sun can also be established based on these studies. Thus, a design that is potentially more energy friendly with less heat entry can be established.