energy modeling and integrated design | critical tools

Brach Design is passionate about energy efficiency and renewable energy, but we know that if something can't be measured, then it can't be meaningfully integrated into a design.

Cost effective energy efficient design and construction relies on the ability accurately predict energy performance during the early design stages—when it is still inexpensive to change design elements to optimize performance.

But predicting energy performance requires a detailed quantitative analysis of an enormously complex system of interconnected parts, which is why offer our clients computer energy modeling. This sophisticated, thorough, and accurate design tool allows us to integrate the architectural design with the energy design in a quantitative way, resulting in the highest levels of quality architectural design and performance, but the lowest possible energy demand.

HVAC Design

Traditional heating and cooling equipment is not required for a building that is designed to substantially utilize more passive ways to ensure comfort. In fact, utilizing conventional heating and cooling systems typically results in units that are much too large for the job at hand, which is analogous to driving a tractor-trailer to the corner bakery to pick up a loaf of bread. We have intimate knowledge of the latest available HVAC equipment and system design to assist our clients in making the most appropriate choices for super-efficient buildings.

The "V" in HVAC stands for Ventilation, and requires particular attention on the part of the designer. Superior indoor air quality is a hallmark of passive design, instead of relying on random leaks to bring fresh air into the building, we utilize Heat Recovery ventilation equipment with air filtration. This allows the occupants to continuously and precisely control the amount the quality of fresh air being brought in without the typical energy losses.