One of my design goals was to make an ultra low energy building that would be functional without mechanical HVAC systems. This is possible as a Climate Analysis reveals that my site has only cooling needs, and is mostly comfortable in the shade.
I have designed what I expect to be a low energy and comfortable building by having a narrow building with lots of openings and brise soleil to promote natural ventilation. The second floor has only one wall which is also made of brise soleil. These architectural features are designed in a low cost way that simply involving stacking bricks in an open pattern.
In the hot and humid tropics, where my site is located, air movement is key. Therefore, I have additionally, I used a “shed roof” which allows for acceleration of air entering at the base of the second floor, through right underneath the roof.
I have assigned spaces around doors to ensure that each space has plenty of opportunities for ventilation. The lack of glass windows is also intentionally done, to save money on expensive glass (a key goal was designing an inexpensive building), while almost requiring that doors be open. The doors are sliding doors, designed with a custom revit family. They are able to fully slide into the wall, enabling the walls to almost open completely.
In the largest space of the building, the Open Office, there are brise soleil on two sides. This enables even more airflow in an area where many people might be working.
I have also chosed a light color for all the walls in my building, which reflect sunlight, rather than absorb. This adds a further passive cooling effect.
This is my space schedule for the first part of the building.
I believe a few ceiling fans on the first and second floor could be beneficial as well, however, this has more to do with electricity and lighting than HVAC.