VENTILATED GREEN FACADES AS A PASSIVE DESIGN STRATEGY

Abstract

Before air conditioning systems, the facade was crucial in providing a well-ventilated and thermally regulated indoor environment. After the integration of air conditioning systems in buildings, this protective enclosure has ceased to provide such services. Our reliance on the mechanized environment has led us to passive strategies that are used to reduce the needs for heating and cooling, as well as for ventilation and interior lighting. Therefore, this paper will present an analysis of natural materials used as insulation in the facade. The influence of ventilated green facades on the energy efficiency of the building will be considered along with the basic classifications and elements. As tenants and designers of these buildings, we now realize that strict reliance on mechanical equipment comes with “a high price”- more energy to operate and maintain all these mechanisms, as well as poorer health due to inadequately ventilated interiors and unchangeable temperatures. As a result, some guidelines and good practices will be presented. With the envelopes of buildings that become the main focus in reducing the energy load of objects, we begin to understand the role of intelligent facades in transforming the way we design buildings. Due to aesthetic and performance reasons, this innovative facade technology should be considered an opportunity for energy efficiency strategy of the building. Green ventilated facades can improve living conditions and help to alleviate climate change.