Research

research

comprehensive post-occupancy evaluation and renovation study of the community arts partnership building

background

building history

Originally constructed in the mid-20th century, the CAP building has undergone significant transformations to meet modern sustainability and occupant comfort standards. The recent renovation incorporated advanced HVAC systems, improved insulation, and energy-efficient lighting while preserving the building’s historic character.

CAP – renovation and POE

The Community Arts Partnership (CAP) building serves as our primary case study for post-occupancy evaluation following comprehensive renovation efforts. This historic structure provides an ideal laboratory for understanding the complex relationships between building performance and occupant satisfaction.

scope of work

Our comprehensive evaluation encompasses thermal comfort analysis, indoor air quality monitoring, lighting performance assessment, and detailed occupant behavior studies. The research spans multiple seasons and usage scenarios to capture the full spectrum of building performance under varying conditions.

research intent

Our research aims to establish evidence-based guidelines for sustainable building design and renovation practices. By systematically evaluating the relationship between environmental conditions and occupant satisfaction, we seek to inform future architectural decisions and contribute to the development of healthier, more efficient built environments. This work bridges the critical gap between design intent and actual performance, providing valuable insights for architects, engineers, and building owners.

research methods & tools

environmental monitoring

advanced sensor networks for temperature, humidity, and CO2 measurement

occupant survey

comprehensive comfort and satisfaction assessment protocols

behavioral observation

time-lapse photography and occupancy pattern analysis

numerical analysis

advanced computational simulations (CFD) for IEQ performance

research phases

phase I

2024-2025

Initial data collection and baseline establishment

Key Objectives:

  • Install comprehensive sensor networks.
  • Conduct initial occupant surveys.
  • Establish baseline performance metrics.
  • Develop data collection protocols.

phase II

2025-2028

Longitudinal study and intervention analysis.

Key Objectives:

  • Long-term performance monitoring.
  • Intervention effectiveness studies.
  • Seasonal variation analysis.
  • Occupant behavior pattern identification.

phase III

2028 onwards

Validation and dissemination of findings.

Key Objectives:

  • Model validation and refinement.
  • Best practice development.
  • Industry guideline creation.
  • Knowledge transfer initiatives.

findings

Our research aims to establish evidence-based guidelines for sustainable building design and renovation practices. By systematically evaluating the relationship between environmental conditions and occupant satisfaction, we seek to inform future architectural decisions and contribute to the development of healthier, more efficient built environments. This work bridges the critical gap between design intent and actual performance, providing valuable insights for architects, engineers, and building owners.