This core design studio transforms the theoretical knowledge acquired during the first semester of the MSc Net Zero Buildings programme into professional practice. Students are tasked with the low-carbon retrofit of complex, real-world buildings, mastering the transition from "business as usual" to zero-carbon design. You will develop integrated environmental strategies that address both embodied and operational carbon through a comprehensive Whole Life Carbon approach.
The module provides essential hands-on experience in site surveying and building performance monitoring, including the analysis of thermal comfort and humidity data to validate your models. Using industry-leading, AI-integrated tools such as DesignBuilder and OneClick LCA, you will conduct iterative simulations to optimise building fabric, thermal comfort, and energy systems. Emphasising a "fabric first" approach and technical optioneering, the studio prepares you to meet and benchmark against stringent international standards, including Passivhaus (EnerPHit) and AECB.
The module provides a technical and practical learning environment through a total of 77 scheduled hours, structured as follows:
•Lectures (20 hours): These sessions deliver the core theoretical and practical framework of the module. Content is illustrated through real case studies delivered by academic staff and industry partners to ensure students engage with cutting-edge evidence.
•Tutorials (36 hours): These are interactive sessions where students gain expertise by applying industry-standard and AI-supported simulation tools, such as DesignBuilder, ENVI-met, and OneClick LCA, to real-world design scenarios. Students receive direct feedback on their technical assessments during these sessions.
•Student Presentations (21 hours): Held over three weeks during the module, these formal sessions allow students to showcase their research findings and advanced analytical capabilities.