ASHRAE 2015 Integrated Sustainable Building Design (ISBD

Lawrence Technological University

ASHRAE 2015

Integrated Sustainable Building Design (ISBD)

Student Design Competition

Lawrence

Technological

University

Architectural Engineering

Department

HADIEL MOHILLDEAN


Graduation: Spring 2016

Phone: (313) 605-4440

E-mail: [email protected]

ZECHARIAH VINSON



Phone: (586) 623-1615


FARAH ANONI



Phone: (248) 773-2013


DANIEL FAORO

RA – ASHRAE Associate

Faculty Advisor

Phone: (248) 204-2856


MARK DRIEDGER

Faculty Advisor

Phone: (905) 580-4820



Executive Summary

The main objective of this proposal is to design a new three story junior college classroom building

in Doha, Qatar which showcases modern sustainable design by accounting for energy efficiency, health and

safety, occupant comfort, functionality, longevity, flexibility, and serviceability. This project is introduced

and sponsored by ASHRAE Annual Student Design Project Competition. Therefore, to meet the

requirements of high energy performance buildings, ASHRAE standards have been used as a guideline

throughout the entire design development phases of the project for example, ASHRAE 189.1-2014. The

Education City in Qatar has been selected as the potential location for the project since it is considered a

sustainable developing educational district that embraces international universities, K-12 schools, and

research centers. The project design process started with collecting information about the general climatic

conditions of Doha, Qatar using Climate Consultant 6.0 software, using Abu Dhabi as the closest proxy

site. Based on charts and annual collected data, Doha, Qatar is categorized under Zone 1 based on ASHRAE

criteria of hot and humid climates. The sustainable site has been developed considering, environmental

challenges, traffic flow, safety, cultural background, and economy. Also, a sustainable integrated parking

lot area has been developed for students, faculty members, and visitors for long term parking. Sustainable

features have been integrated to the parking area such as, solar PV panels, LED lights, rain water collection

system, and eco-pavement system to promote the usage of renewable energy resources on site.

In addition, the design of the proposed building has been developed using bio-climatic strategies

such as shading, passive cooling, passive ventilation, minimum solar heat gain, and maximum controlled

daylighting which collectively helped to achieve an energy efficient design that best responds to the climatic

conditions and the natural environment of Doha, Qatar. Also, materials have been selected to be

prefabricated, recyclable, durable, and functional to allow for a better construction waste management,

minimum maintenance, and less impact on the environment. The majority of the materials are locally

supplied to support local businesses while reducing the cost associated with shipping. The building interior

has been designed to meet the main function of the building to enhance students’ educational experience.

The building includes classrooms, administration offices, media center, workshops and meeting areas. The

spatial organization has been designed to reflect some of the valuable design strategies that have been

expressed in the work of the great architect Louis Kahn to create a unique and transformative learning

environment.

Taking into consideration the requirements for high energy performance buildings, building

systems- structural, mechanical, lighting, plumbing, and fire detection systems -have been designed

carefully to increase energy efficiency, reduce heat loads and water consumption, improve indoor air quality

and safety, eliminate maintenance, and use renewable energy resources. For instance, the PV solar system

on the roof of the third floor accommodates 16% of the total power load required by the building with an

annual saving of $25,937. In addition, the mechanical system achieves annual savings of $91,554.15. Using

low flow plumbing fixtures also allowed for a 33.1% overall reduction in the total number of gallons used

by the building annually. Both prescriptive and performance paths have been considered along with the

mandatory provisions when designing each of the proposed building system to comply with ASHRAE

standards.

Calculations have been conducted using excel spread sheets, Revit Autodesk 3D software, PVWatts

calculator to calculate building loads and energy savings as well as sizing systems to accommodate for the

building energy demands. Moreover, cost analysis have been produced to assure that the proposed design

meets the per-specified budget of $200.00/sf. The total project cost is 169.24 $/sf. Moreover, LEED

standards were projected to rate the building at platinum level.


ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The proposed project required a good quality of work, research, and dedication. However, the

outcomes would not have been at this level of quality if we have not had the support and

guidance of many faculty members and advisors. Therefore, we would like to extend our sincere

gratitude to all of them. First of all, we would like to thank our faculty advisors professor Daniel

Faoro and Mark Driedger for sharing their superior knowledge and experience to accomplish this

project. Also, we are thankful for the continuous support provided by professor Filza Walters,

Ralph Nelson, Robert Roop, Robert Stevenson, Janice Means, and Faris Habba in the completion

of this project.

SUSTAINABLE AND RENEWABLE ENERGY METHODS


CONTENTS

Integrated Susteinable Design Building ASHRAE – 2015

Student Design Competiton

SECTION PAGE

1 Introduction……………………………………………………………………………..…(1)

2 Climate Analysis……………………………………………………………......................(2)

3 Site Analysis………………………………………………………....................................(3)

4 Site Design………………………………………………………………………………...(5)

5 Building Design Strategies…………………………………………………………….….(10)

6 Building Program & Spatial Organization………………………………………….…….(12)

7 Structural System Design…………………………………………………........................(14)

8 Envelope Design………………………………………………………………………….(15)

9 Lighting System Design……………………………………………………………….….(19)

10 Photovoltaic System Design ………………………………………………………….…..(22)

11 Plumbing and Fixtures Selection………………………………………….........................(23)

12 Mechanical System Design…………………………………………………………….....(25)

13 Energy Model Comparison ……………………………………………............................(31)

14 Fire Detection, Protection, and Supression System……………………............................(34)

15 Cost Analysis…………………………………………………………………………......(35)

16 Appendices


Sustainable Sites Max

Points

Score

0-10 Page

Reference

Mandatory-Site Selection: The building is situated on an allowable site

and the team has justified the selection.

25 4

Mandatory-Mitigation of Heat Island Effect: Site hardscape is

addressed IAW the Standard.

25 8, 11

Mandatory-Mitigation of Heat Island Effect: Above grade walls are

shaded IAW the Standard

25 10, 11

Mandatory-Mitigation of Heat Island Effect: Roof systems comply with

the Standard

25 17

Mandatory-Reduction of Light Pollution: Exterior lighting systems

comply with the standard.

25 8, 9

PrescriptiveOp ti on Path: All prescriptive items explained and justified

in the write-up. 50

Performance Option Path: Calculations are provided and justified in the

write-up.

50

ASHRAE-2015 ISBD JUDGING CRITERIA

NOTE: Judging criteria are provided here to indicate how the building and site designs have satisfied the

requirements by ASHRAE Student Design Competition specifically for the Integrated Sustainable Building

Design Competition. Page numbers have been indicated to help navigate through the report and check the

pages covering the given requirements.

College: Lawrence Technological University Total

Points:

Project Category: Integrated Sustainable Building Design (ISBD)

Summary of results Max

Points

Actual

Points

Understanding of Compliance Paths 100

Sustainable Sites 225

Water Use Efficiency 175

Energy Efficiency 150

Indoor Environmental Quality 190

The Buildings Impact on the Atmosphere, Materials, and Resources 150

Construction and Plans For Operation 50

Communication of Results 200

TOTAL 1040

Understanding of Compliance Paths Max

Points

Score

0-10

Page

Reference

Team effectively demonstrates knowledge of the Standard and justifies

their method of achieving compliance. 50

Overall success in achieving compliance with one of the two compliance paths:

a. ALL Mandatory options + prescriptive options explained and

justified.

b. Mandatory + Performance Option explained and justified.Calculations are required for this option.

50

TOTAL 100


Water Use Efficiency Max

Points

Score

0-10 Page

Reference

Mandatory-Site Water Use Reduction: the team has addressed and

justified the section.

25

8

Mandatory-Building Water Use Reduction: the team has addressed and


25

8, 16

Mandatory-Water Consumption Management: the team has addressed

and justified the section.

25

8

Prescriptive Option Path: All prescriptive items explained and justified

in the write-up.

50

16

16 Performance Option Path: Calculations are provided and justified in the

write-up.

50

16

TOTAL 175

Energy Efficiency Max

Points

Score

0-10

Page

Reference

Mandatory-General: Building complies with Sections 5.4, 6.4, 7.4, 8.4,

9.4, and 10.4 of ASHRAE 90.1.

25 10, 11, 14

Mandatory - On-Site Renewable Energy Systems: Team has addressed

and justified the section.

25

7, 8, 19,

22

Prescriptive Option Path: All prescriptive items explained and justified

in the write-up.

50

14, 22


write-up.

50

22

TOTAL 150

Indoor Environmental Quality Max

Points

Score

0-10 Page

Reference

Mandatory-Indoor Air Quality: Building Complies with ASHRAE 62.1.

Ventilation Calculations shall be provided to receive full credit for this item.

10 14

Mandatory - Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring: Team has addressed and


10 30

Mandatory - Filtration and Air Cleaner Requirements: Team has addressed and justified the section.

10 30

Mandatory - Environmental Tobacco Smoke: Team has addressed and justified the section.

10 30

Mandatory - Building Entrances: Team has addressed and justified the section. 10 30 Mandatory-Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy: Building

Complies with ASHRAE 55. Calculations shall be provided to

receive full credit for this item.

10 14, 33

Mandatory - Acoustical Control: Team has addressed and justified the section. 10 12, 30 Mandatory - Daylighting by Top lighting: Team has addressed and justified the section.

10 20

Mandatory - Isolation of the Building from Pollutants in the Soil: Team has addressed and justified the section.

10

Prescriptive Option Path: All prescriptive items explained and justified in the

write-up.

50 25, 26, 27,

28, 29 Performance Option Path: Calculations are provided and justified in the

write-up.

50 27, 30, 31,

32


The Buildings Impact on the Atmosphere, Materials, and Resources Max Points

Score 0-10

Page

Reference

Mandatory - Construction Waste Management: Team has addressed and


25 15, 16,

23 Mandatory - Storage and Collection of Recyclables and Discarded

Goods: Team has addressed and justified the section.

25 15, 16,

23 Prescriptive Option Path: All prescriptive items explained and justified

in the write-up.

50 15, 16


write-up.

50 15, 16

TOTAL 150

Construction and Plans For Operation Max

Points

Score

0-10 Page

Reference

Mandatory - Construction: Team has addressed and justified the section.

25

Mandatory - Plans for Operation: Team has addressed and justified the

section. 25

TOTAL 50

Communication of Results Max

Points

Score 0-

10

Page

Reference

Narrative – Clarity and Organization 50 Cover sheet 5 Listing of team members and advisors 5 Table of contents 5 References 5 Appendices 5 Clarity 15 Organization 10 Effective Use of Graphics 25 Effective use of technical drawings 25 Professionalism of presentation 20 Creativity of presentation 20 Effectiveness of conclusions and recommendations - were you sold 60 Penalty - (Project exceeds limits): -50 -50

TOTAL 200

GUIDES AND CODES

ASHRAE Standard 189.1-2014



ASHRAE Standard 55

IES Lighting Handbook

IBC “International Building Code” 2012


1 Integrated Sustainable Building Design – ASHRAE 2015

INTRODUCTION

Sustainability has been considered the lead approach in every design and construction

process to achieve buildings that have the least environmental impacts, energy consumption, and

carbon foot-print. Therefore, ASHRAE design standards have been utilized extensively as a

guideline throughout the design process to improve the overall building performance. The Training

Technology Center has been designed and developed to set an example of a sustainable and high

energy performance building. The educational building consumes as minimum energy as possible

during a whole year of heating, cooling, ventilation, and lighting and it responds well to the climatic

conditions -hot and humid- of Doha, Qatar where it is assumed to be located. The Education City

has been selected as a potential site for the educational building. This particular district has been

developed to seek Qatar’s vision to use sustainable technology and material, leading to an

environmentally responsive and contemporary architecture while preserving Qatar’s culture and

Arab identity. Sustainable approaches have been utilized to design both the site and building. The

site has been studied to promote the connectivity of the educational building to the other existing

buildings on site. Also, a parking area was introduced to the site integrated with systems that increase

the use of renewable energy resources and energy production which in return optimizes the energy

performance at community level.



CLIMATE ANALYSIS

To appropriately design the selected site for the educational facility, complying with ASHRAE Standard 189.1-

2014, section 5, the site will mitigate the heat island effect through the use of site hardscape. It will also provide

adequate exterior lighting without contributing to light pollution. In addition, the exterior walls will be adequately

shaded. Furthermore, safety, traffic, site accessibility and public services were studied.

Climate of Doha, Qatar:

Location Coordinates: 25.29o N, 51.53o E

Doha is the capital of Qatar and is located on the coast of the Peninsula Golf

in the Middle East. It is covered by 91% of oceans and seas and 5% lakes

and rivers

Hot and Humid Climate: The location is assumed to be similar to

ASHRAE climate zone 1 since Qatar is 25o north of the equator.

Typically hot and humid climates have a lack of seasonal variations

and with intense solar radiation and high humidity levels for most

of the year.

Temperature: Over a study of 35 years, the annual temperature

varies between 57oF to 106oF. The warm seasons are from May 10

to September 26 and the cold seasons begin December 5 and end

March 6. See Figure (1).

Relative Humidity: Typically ranges from 18% (dry) to 94% (very

humid). The air is driest around May 28, dropping to 21%. See

Figure (2).

Dew Point: the dew point typically varies from 44oF to 82oF. See

Figure (3).

Daylight: Throughout the year the length of the day varies. Dec. 21

gives off 10:34 hours, being the shortest, and June 20 giving 13:43

hours of daylight.

Precipitation: Total annual rainfall is 2.51 in. It is most likely to

rain on colder days and is least likely to rain in the summer days.

However, when it does rain, it usually floods. See Figure (4).

Wind: Is usually blowing in the north-west direction 21% of the

time and north direction 19% of the time varying from 1 mph to 18

mph. The remaining wind directions are less than 10%.

Cloud Cover: The median cloud cover can range from 0% (clear)

to 20% (mostly clear). It is 10% cloudy from Nov. 15 to May 1,

whereas the rest of the months it is below 10% clear.

Figure (1) – Temperature of Doha, Qatar - Doha

International Airport

Figure (2) – Humidity of Doha, Qatar - Doha

International Airport

Figure (3) – Dew Point of Doha, Qatar. Daily

average low (blue) and high (red)

Figure (4) – Total rainfall (blue) and

average rainfall (yellow) each month



SITE ANALYSIS

Sustainable Sites

Education City – Doha, Qatar

Education City was opened in 2001 and was founded by Qatar

Foundation for Education, Science and Community

Development and covers 14 square kilometers. See figure (5).

It is continuously developing and “aims to be the center of

educational excellence within the region,” while

incorporating sustainable approaches to their agenda. It

thrives on concentrating educational institutions in one

location so they can interact and form relationships. The type

of facilities located there are:

Universities

Schools and Education Centers

Research and Science Centers

Other Facilities

Public Transportation: Education city aims to be a car-free

location where everyone relies on tram system, train stations,

to reach their locations. The company that is designing this is

called Siemens Avenio. Refer to figure (6). They are

arranging to transport up to 3,300 passengers per hour. There

will be 11.5 kilometers of track and 25 stations connected to

university buildings, car parks, administration buildings and

student accommodation, one of these locations is Qatar

National Convention Center. It will be going under

construction in 2016.

Electric-Bike Sharing System: This project has been

launched in Education City at a small scale and will increase

the bike stops as time progresses. It is designed to be an eco-

friendly transport service, similar to the the tram system, and

covers 8 kiometer distance with 19 stations. It uses a battery

to help the user increase the speed of the bike. See figure (7).

Figure (5) – Map of Education City

Figure (6) – Public transportation - Siemens Avenio

Figure (7) – Electric-bike sharing system

N



Sustainable Features and Surrounding Land Use:

Based on observation from figure (8), the north-east side of the Education City provides an opportunity

for building construction development due to the availability of vacant lands and gaining LEED points

for location and transportation. This is found in the area surrounded by the intersection of Al Luqta and

Al Gharrafa streets. The selected site area embraces few pre-existing sustainable research facilities that

set an ideal example of high energy performance buildings. These research facilities are:

The Qatar Science and Technology Park

The Qatar National Convention Center

The Sidra Medical and Research Center

The design of these facilities demonstrates the sustainable approaches for what the city is promoting. The

proposed building is categorized as an educational training facility; therefore, the selected site area has a

potential to provide students with a unique learning experience from the surroundings. The site is

employed as a teaching tool for students to learn and advance their education. To select a suitable location

for the educational building that connects back to the existing buildings, location A was chosen.

Figure (8) – Proposed Site Study and Building Locations

N



Location A has distinctive characteristics compared to other vacant lands in the area:

1. Adjacent to a developing green-belt located south that can have a great impact on the

environmental air quality. It can also invite people to walk, exercise, and experience the site.

2. Easy accessibility from main roads which makes the location convenient for people coming

from different directions.

3. Near the roundabout which forces drivers to slow down and yield while driving in this area.

This in return reduces collisions while improving traffic flow.

Traffic: The main entrance is on the secondary existing greenbelt road. Therefore, transportation vehicle

entering and leaving the building will not be exposed to mild 8 am. and 5 pm. traffic. Also, the educational

facility is connected to the parking lot on a tertiary road. This is possible since the road is least travelled

on, therefore, allowing pedestrians a safe and easy passage.

SITE DESIGN

Figure (9) – Proposed Site Design



Landscape:

It is important to use native plants of Qatar to eliminate the

maintenance and irrigation since they will be accustomed to

the dryness of the land while preserving the existing

ecosystem. Therefore four types of plants will be purchased

locally from a local company and they are:

Nerium Olender: This is an evergreen tree where

its height can range from 6.6-19.7 ft tall and

produces white fragrant flowers – figure (10).

Cyrtostachys Renda: This is a slender, slow-

growing palm tree and reaches up to 52 ft tall. It has

a unique bright red colored crown-shaft and its

leaves are 5.9 inches long. In addition, it can bear seasonal

fruit – figure (11).

Atriplex Halimus: it is an evergreen shrub that grows 6

by 9 ft at a medium rate. It does not grow well under shade

and it flowers in July – figure (12).

Grapevines: it can grow to 35 yards with a flaky bark.

They usually spiral around objects when growing. They

are also seasonally bear fruit – figure (13).

Design Layout:

There are four design layouts described from figure (9).

1. Located at the main entrance of the building the guest parking

lot will have the palm trees and shrubs along the sidewalk to

protect the cars from direct sunlight – figure (14).

2. The evergreen trees will be surrounding the building to shade

the building. In addition, the combination of shrubs and the

trees will follow the sidewalks trail to provide shading for the

pedestrians – figure (15).

3. On the second floor of the building, there is a percentage of

the roof covered with the canopy and vines. Under it will have

a green roof system covering 100% of the roof. This canopy

allows to connect and shade the two wings so students can

comfortably cross to the other side of the building – figure

(16).

4. The parking lot is has a shading canopy already provided.

Therefore the trees and shrubs are planted alongside the

sidewalk that is on the outskirts of the parking lot – figure (17).

Figure (10) – Nerium

Olender Figure (11) – Cyrtostachys

Renda Halimus

Figure (12) – Atriplex

Halimus Figure (13) – Grapevines

Figure (15) – Evergreen and shrub design along

sidewalks

Figure (14) – Palm trees and shrub design along

guest parking lot

Figure (16) – Canopy on second floor covered with

vines

Figure (17) – Sidewalk on the outskirts of the

parking lot shaded with evergreen and shrubs



Design Approach: for a hot and humid climate, the landscape must be strategically designed to mitigate

the heat island effect for a low rise building. This will help to control:

1. Radiation

2. Heat

3. Wind

Radiation: The landscape elements that are selected will help to deflect and diffuse the light since the

leaves will be blocking the direct sunlight and increase the area of shading. This will help mitigate the

heat island effect, therefore cooling loads for the mechanical equipment in the educational facility will

be reduced.

Heat: Shading a large percentage of the surface from direct sunlight will help to cool the shaded surface

and air temperature by 20 - 45oF compared to unshaded surfaces. This will help to reduce the urban heat

island. This also contributes to minimizing glare reflecting from surfaces that are not shaded.

Wind: The wind is dominant on the north and north-west direction. Because this is a hot climate,

staggering the trees on the north side of the building will help the wind be “funneled” to create a cool

breeze for the outdoor spaces of the building. The wind can also pick up the dust particles creating a dust

storm, however, the density of leaves on the evergreens will able to collect the dust and minimizes it as

it reaches the building.

Parking Lot System:

Figure (18) – Integrated sustainable parking lot structure proposed design



Parking lot Design: The integrated and sustainable parking lot is

located west of the educational facility. It provides renewable energy,

security and a natural resource management system. The structure is

made of concrete and is constructed using three pieces. Two pieces are

the column and half of the roof canopy and the third piece is the

inverted V shape center piece that connects the other two pieces using

a key connection, seen in figure (19)

Energy Efficient:

Motion Sensor LED Lighting: is distributed under the canopy. It helps

lower energy use and cost, improves security and does not contribute

to night pollution. Figure (21 – A)

Eco – Pavement: recycled concrete can help reduce the heat island effect, it allows

water to be absorbed through the paves to reach the soil without being eroded.

Figure (21 – B)

PV for Future Expansion: 3,626 PV’s modules can be installed directly over the

roof. Half will be facing north and the other half will face the south sunlight at a

20o angle and can generate up to 1,674,367 kWh. This will help the building

exceeds net zero. Figure (21 – C)

Transportation:

Electric Vehicle Charger: There are 84 electric car chargers and the

energy can be used from the PV canopy system. Figure (21 – D)

Electric Bicycle Parking: This can be used for the newly developed

electric bicycle currently in use in Qatar. Figure (21 – E)

Water Management:

Rain Water Collection System – Future Expansion: The rain water is

collected from the roof canopy and is drained through the concrete beam

drains. It is then collected underground through piping towards the main

storage tank. This tank can collect 120,187 gallons per year that will

provide an annual saving of 62.3% of the building water cost which is

provided in table (1-6)B, page 24.

Outdoor Events:

Special events and holidays can take place since the canopy protects

people from direct sunlight. Figure (21 – F)

In addition, the canopy extents across the parking lot on the west side. It

provides a shaded path to help connect the Qatar Science and Technology

Park with the students. Figure (21 – G)

Security: The site is secured with a security video monitor mounted at

multiple locations.

B

F

C

G

D E

A

Figure (21) – Sustainable Parking Lot

Figure (19) – Section cut through the parking lot



Exterior Lighting System: Exterior lighting is very important to design since it provides a clear path

for pedestrians and cars to travel at night, while feeling safe. However, due to the increase in light

pollution, the lighting system was designed to comply with ASHRAE 189.1 and IES recommended

foot-candles. The design conditions are:

Backlight: light directing in the back of the mounting pole

Uplight: light being directed above the horizontal plane of the luminaire

Glare: amount of light emitted from the luminaire at angles known to cause glare

Design Layout: The main locations chosen to design the exterior lighting are as listed:

o Sustainable parking lot

o Sidewalks

o Building main entrance

The fixtures, layout and calculations were executed by using GE Lighting© and the outdoor lighting

layout program provided by GE Lighting©. On the following page, a schematic layout of how the light

will be distributed (figure 22 A, B, C) and table – 1 will help summarize the design layout and the

calculations that were done.

Lighting Controls – based on ASHRAE 90.1, the following

lighting controls have been satisfied.

1. During the day all exterior lighting is turned off.

2. The building façade and landscape lighting is shut off

between midnight and opens at 6 a.m.

3. All other lighting, including the parking lot, is reduced by

30% of full power usage by using occupancy sensors that

turn light off after 15 minutes of no movement.

Special cases where lighting controls can be manually

turned on is in the large parking lot where events are taking

place.

Figure (22- B) –

Sidewalk plan for

light distribution –

3 fc is red - 1 fc is

rouge

Figure (22-A) – Parking lot

Site Plan– 5 fc is red - 4 fc is

blue – 3 fc is green

Figure (22- C) - Building

entrance w/ canopy floor

plan – 5 fc is red - 3 fc is

green – 1 fc is rouge



BUILDING BIO-CLIMATIC DESIGN STRATEGIES

To achieve a design that best responds to the climatic conditions in Doha, Qatar as well as enhances the primary

function of the educational building, multiple recommended design strategies by Climate Consultant 0.6 software

were considered throughout the phases of the building design development. In addition, some design strategies

that were employed by the great architect Louis Kahn were also applied in the design of this project. These

strategies aid in attaining a more energy efficient building design with the optimum comfort and energy savings

to meet ASHRAE Standard 189.1-2014, section 7, energy efficiency.

Shading Strategies: Hallways are designed to warp around

the second and third floor levels to maximize the indoor-

outdoor relationship while creating shaded, screened, and

rain protected areas for students to circulate and interact

outside the classroom environment. The shaded and semi-

conditioned hallways reduce the amount of solar heat gain

and act as buffer spaces to provide natural ventilation from

the exterior to the interior spaces. See figure (23). Also, to

utilize the light and shading effect seen on the interior while

creating a unique appearance to the building exterior,

traditionally rooted shading panels were designed to create

interesting visual effect of light and shadow as the sun

changes positions throughout the day.

Passive Ventilation: A central courtyard was included as a

building design strategy to optimize the natural ventilation

while minimizing indoor overheating conditions. The

courtyard functions as an air funnel discharging indoor air into

the outdoors since it is ventilated by automatic operable

windows on the exterior walls of the building. It also increases

the shading area and makes for a cooler micro-climate. See

figure (24). In addition, incorporating the multistory, central

courtyard into the building design reflects Qatar’s culture and

building design traditions. Courtyards have always been

considered as part of the vernacular architecture of Doha,

Qatar. It creates a natural harmony between climate,

architecture and building occupants.

Minimizing The Solar Effect on East/West Glazing: The east and west glazing have been screened to

reduce solar heat gain and direct sunlight penetrating through the building due to the low angles of the

sun in these directions throughout the day and year. This strategy has improved the daylight quality

entering the building. Some of the curtain walls are covered with perforated panels and others with

expanded metal mesh panels to reduce direct sunlight through

Figure (23) – 2nd and 3rd Level Hallways

Figure (24) – Multistory Central Courtyard



Covered Areas: Due to the hot climate in Doha, Qatar, the

green roof covering the first floor level has been protected

by a shading canopy covered with plants to create a shaded

area for students’ activities and gatherings. This strategy is

commonly applied in this part of the world to tolerate the

climatic conditions throughout the year for outdoor areas.

See figure (25). This strategy also reduces the excessive

thermal heat loads on the building by partially blocking the

direct sunlight that would instead strike the roofing area and

increase the heat loads in the interior areas underneath.

In addition, covered seating areas - located along the east and

west sides of the building’s first floor level - are designed to

provide shading effect for the adjacent classrooms to reduce

the amount of solar heat gain and unwanted glare into these

spaces. Also, these seating areas increase the interaction of

students with the developed surrounding site features. Refer

to figure (26). Moreover, they create spaces for students to

meet, socialize, and learn which in return enhance students’

personal and educational experiences.

Passive Cooling: To utilize natural air and wind patterns

while reducing energy consumption in the building, multi-

directional wind towers are incorporated into the building

design. The wind towers have been considered as part of the

traditional architecture of Doha, Qatar. These towers are

designed high enough to catch cooler breeze that prevail at a

higher level above ground then they act as a funnel to direct

the cool air into the interior of the building. These wind

towers create an enclosure for the two main stairs in the

building to provide passive cooling for people circulating.

See figure (27). Moreover, they are used to discharge the

heat stored in the building thermal mass “Precast Concrete”

during the day by night flushing cooling strategy. This

strategy is effective only when night temperatures and

humidity are appropriate, approximately 3 to 4 months of the

year.

Reflective Surfaces: Light color surface material with high

SRI is Integrated to the exterior surfaces of the building to

maximize emissivity while minimizing the heat absorbed by

the envelope which will contribute to mitigating the heat

island effect. Refer to figure (28).

Figure (28) – Light Color Reflected Facade

Figure (25) – Roof Canopy

Figure (26) – Seating Covered Area

Figure (27) – Passive Cooling Towers



Building Program & Spatial Organization

The design and organization of the interior spaces of the educational building is as important as the design of the

exterior facades. Taking that into consideration, studies have been conducted to understand the unique strategies

that were used by the great architect, Louis Kahn. A specific building of his work – The Indian Institute of

Management Building- was studied to learn about the path Louis Kahn took when he designed this educational

building in a climate that is similar to Doha, Qatar in some sense.

First Floor Plan: The first floor of the building has a total square footage of 33,779 sf. It includes spaces

such as: small and large classrooms, library and media center, administration offices, welding and

carpentry shops, and service spaces. In addition, a prayer room is included to the spatial program to

respond to local cultural influences. The building’s entrance is facing south. Also, the building has more

than one egress door to comply with IBC requirements. The spaces are organized based on function, size,

and priority to meet building codes requirements. Reflecting back to Kahn’s attributes to spatial

organization, central space organization is used by incorporating the multistory, central courtyard as a

focal point in middle of the building for gathering while the secondary spaces are organized around it in

a symmetrical fashion. The spaces are mostly designed to form basic geometric shapes: rectangles or

squares. Two main egress stairs are located on each side of the building to provide easy circulation for

students/staff. In addition, an elevator is located near the entrance that provides access to the second and

third floors. To reduce noise and provide a quite environment for students to study without any

distraction, the welding and carpentry shops are located in the back of the building facing north and

parametrized with hallways to create a buffer space. Refer to figure (29).

Figure (29) – First Floor Plan



Second and Third Floor Plans: The second and third floor plans of the building have a total square

footage of 29,912 sf each. The spatial program is almost identical for these two levels. They include

spaces such as small and large classrooms, conference room, break room, and service spaces. The floor

plan shape looks different from the first floor. The U-shape allows for two east and west wings to house

the large classrooms on these levels. The conditioned spaces are surrounded by hallways to provide easy

circulation for students/staff and a buffer space to control heat transfer and noise from the outdoor

environment. The back side of these levels is occupied with classrooms and meeting areas. The overall

spatial organization of the second and third levels reflects Kahn’s adaptation to symmetry in organizing

building programs. Figure (30).

Figure (30) – Second and Third Floor Plans

N

N

Second level

Third level



Figure (33) – Precast Concrete Structural System Figure (32) – PC Beam on Column

Corbels

STRUCTURAL SYSTEM DESIGN

The structural system type has been selected to mainly improve the construction waste management, building

energy performance, durability of the design, and the indoor air quality to meet ASHRAE 189.1-2014 standard

sections 5,8, and 9, site sustainability, indoor environmental quality, and building’s impact on the atmosphere,

materials and resources respectively.

Precast Concrete System: This system compose the entire building structural system. The structural

components are: column, inverted T-beam, L-beam, and hollow core planks. See figures (31), (32), and

(33) for more structural detail information of the components and how they are connected structurally.

Precast concrete was specifically selected due to many advantages:

1. Cost Efficiency and Waste Management: the precast

concrete structural components can be erected year-round

without any delays which reduces cost associated with

schedule’s overruns. In addition, since it is prefabricated,

the waste resulted in the construction process is highly

managed. The precast concrete can be recycled and reused

in other applications in the future.

2. Design flexibility: The system is capable of providing open

interiors due to its long-span capabilities. With the system,

long spans up to 40 ft were able to be achieved.

3. Thermal Mass: The precast concrete system improves the

thermal performance of the building due to its ability to

store heat energy, delay peak loads, and reduce total load

which in return increases energy savings.

4. High IAQ: The material has no out gassing that plague

many buildings with “Sick Building Syndrome”. It also

prevents mold growth.

5. Low maintenance: Precast concrete façade requires

maintenance every 20 years to maintain its reliability.

6. Speed of construction: The modularity of the precast

structural system maximizes repetition which makes it easier

for builders to quickly construct the building.

Figure (31) – Precast Concrete Structural

Components



BIO-CLIMATIC ENVELOPE DESIGN PROPERTIES

In order to increase the energy efficiency performance of the building while reducing the building loads,

energy consumptions, and materials’ environmental impact, the development of the building exterior

envelope was prioritized. Therefore, locally supplied and recycled content materials were selected for the

design to meet the requirements of ASHRAE standard 189.1-2014, section 9. In addition, table E-2 with the

recommended U-values for buildings’ envelope was used per zone 1. In addition, construction waste

management along with storage and collection of recyclable and discarded goods are also considered. The

following is a list of all the materials specified for the exterior envelope of the educational building:

Exterior Walls

CarbonCast Precast Concrete Sandwich Wall:

This system uses advanced technology to improve the

thermal performance of the precast concrete wall

system through integrating ultra-strong, light weight,

and non-corrosive C-GRID into the insulated sandwich

wall system. The wall panel is composed of two

concrete wythes separated by a continuous insulation

and connected by the C-GRID system. See figure (34).

With the CarbonCast concrete wall system, ASHRAE

standard 189.1-2014 recommended maximum U-value

of 0.580 is met as the system achieves U-values of 0.1-

0.03 with continuous insulation. The use of

CarbonCast wall system has many advantages in addition

to more than 10 percent reduction to the U-value recommended:

1. Light weight system with less concrete and steel result in reducing the building’s carbon

footprint and the embodied energy.

2. High thermal performance due to integrating the low thermal conductive C-GRID reinforcement

into the wall system.

3. Thermal mass is an inherent characteristics of concrete to absorb and store heat energy from

both the sun and the internal ambient heat which reduces heat transfer in the building.

4. The use of recycled material in the concrete mix with a very limited on-site waste make it a

potential green building material.

5. Mold-free and non-combustible material which increases its durability.

Glass Fiber Perforated Panels:

The system is composed of layers of glass fiber extruded

into a concrete matrix. The system consists of three

layers, the top and bottom layers are composed of

scattered fibers; however, in the medium layer, the fibers

are bundled which results in high flexural strength and

thin concrete panels of 2 inch thickness. This system has

been incorporated into the design to cover the building

like a skin made of concrete to create a shading element.

Figure (34) – CarbonCast Wall System

Figure (35) – Glass Fiber Perforated Panel with Arabic

Kufi Script stating, “Seek knowledge as far as China”



These panels are costumed design, incorporating one of the oldest calligraphic Arabic script styles to

reflect the Arabic deep-rooted culture in Doha, Qatar. The script promotes a popular traditional statement

in the Middle East about education, “Seek knowledge as far as China”. See figure (35). The flexibility of

the selected material helps to achieve the artistic Arabic patterns which in return play a major role in

creating a unique building exterior as well as guaranteeing a cathartic experience for people indoor.

The glass fiber panels are considered a green building material due to the following:

1. The product is mainly made of mineral components. 95% of its components are sand, cement,

and glass fibers.

2. Problem-free waste disposal.

3. Environmentally friendly, no contribution to increasing the greenhouse gasses.

4. Cost effective, and fully recyclable.

5. Shading device to reduce solar heat gain.

Expanded Metal Mesh: Along with the perforated panels to

cover the exterior of the building, diamond patterned expanded

metal mesh is incorporated to complete the outer skin of the

building. It is used as a solar screening device to reduce solar

heat gain and glare which makes it contribute to the energy

efficiency of the building. It also helps on improving the indoor

environmental quality by creating a connection between the

indoor spaces and outdoors through the introduction of daylight

and views. In addition, metal mesh is primarily produced from

steel and recyclable materials, therefore, the construction waste

generated can be included in the waste management plan.

Figure (36).

Curtain Walls: This system is used to invite daylight into the

building as well as improve the interaction between the indoors

and outdoors environments. To improve the thermal performance

of curtain walls, double pane glazed panels are used with

stainless steel framing. The steel curtain wall system has superior

thermal performance, U-value of 0.19, which is less than the

maximum U-value recommended by ASHRAE standard 189.1-

2014 per zone 1. Low maintenance is associated with the system

which reduces cost in the long term. The system is 100%

recyclable to help in material waste management and reduction.

Figure (37).

Low-E Windows: Double glazed windows are used in the

building envelope to improve the thermal performance of

the glazing system. The double glazed panes are separated by almost 0.6 in of air gab and argon gas layer.

The system has low emissivity properties to minimize the amount of ultraviolet and infrared light that

can pass through the glass while maintaining an acceptable amount of visible light transmitted. The low-

E window system has a U-value of 0.25. They system achieves a better thermal performance than the

recommended values by ASHRAE 189.1-2014 standard which recommends a maximum U-value of 0.59.

Figure (37) – Steel Curtain Wall system

Figure (36) – Expanded Metal Mesh



Accessible Extensive Green Roof:

This system is selected to cover the roof of the first

floor level of the building to create a highly

personalized environment that drives students to

interact with one another. The plants that are

integrated into the system keep the air fresh and reduce

dust pollution, traffic noise, and heat load in the floor

beneath. The extensive green roof integrates ground-

cover plants that require minimum irrigation while

reducing the water load on the urban sewer systems.

See figure (38). It meets the mandatory requirements

by ASHRAE 189.1-2014, section 5.3.5.3.

To achieve a high thermal insulation system, a foam glass layer is introduced to the system to reduce heat

transfer. The system is considered environmentally responsive and green due to its ecological contribution:

1. The insulation is manufactured from more than 66% of recycled glass and non-limited natural

raw materials.

2. It is environmentally neutral and has no propellants harmful to the ozone layer.

3. Foam glass can be recycled or reused in road construction or acoustics protection walls at the end

of service life.

4. The service life of the insulation matches that of the building.

Insulated Flat Roof: The inverted roof system with

Foam glass insulation has been selected to cover the

third level roof area. Foam glass insulation material is

the same one integrated with the green roof system. It

is specifically applied in hot climate areas without the

risk of freezing. See figure (39). The system achieves

U-values of 0.02-0.05 where the low end exceeds

ASHRAE standard 189.1-2014 recommended

maximum U-value of 0.048 per zone 1.

Wall section details of the west wall were developed to explicitly describe how the selected materials

along with the precast concrete structural system come together to create the skeleton and skin of the

educational center. Refer to page 18. Also, a two-dimensional building heat transfer modeling program

“THERM” was used to analyze and calculate heat transfer in the proposed wall system. Based on THERM

simulation, heat transfer has been majorly controlled to reduce heat load inside the building. Refer to

figure (40). Also, a full wall section detail of the west wall can be found in the appendices.

Figure (38) – Extensive Green Roof

Figure (39) – Insulated Roof



ROOF AND PERFORATED PANELS DETAIL

Figure (40) - THERM – Wall Simulation Carbon Cast Sandwich Wall Detail

0.03



LIGHTING SYSTEM DESIGN

Both daylighting and electrical lighting have been considered to provide adequate illumination in the spaces

based on their types and functions. The lighting system has been designed to maximize the use of daylighting

while minimizing the dependence on electrical lighting to reduce electrical energy consumption. The

proposed design meets the requirements recommended by ASHRAE standard 189.1-2014 and ASHRAE

standard 90.1 – 2013 to achieve a more energy efficient lighting design.

Daylighting

The orientation of the building played a major role in determining the amount and quality of daylight

coming into the educational building throughout the day and year. The north façade of the building

receives diffused light which in return reduces solar heat gain. The south façade is shaded with the

perforated panels to allow the admission of low-angle winter sunlight for day lighting and avoid the

higher angle solar radiation in the summer time. Both the east and west facades are shaded with deep

hallways covered with perforated panels to minimize solar heat gain and glare due to sun low-angle.

Due to the use of perforated and metal mesh panels as shading

devices along with 8-10 ft deep covered hallways, maximizing

the amount of daylighting entering the building was of concern.

Therefore, using light shelf’s in the covered hallways was

considered to reflect daylight into the classrooms along these

corridors.The light will be reflected and indirect to provide

general, ambient light into the classrooms. Daylight simulation

using Revit Autodesk software has been done to demonstrate the

effectiveness of the light shelf’s technique used in the hallways.

Refer to figure (41) and (42). the two figures show the amount

of footcandles entering the classroom area -facing east in June

21st, at 12:00 p.m.- when including and excluding the light

shelf’s. The simulations show the importance of the light shelf

method to direct the lighting into the classroom while maintaining

cool hallways for students to circulate comfortably throughout the

day. Figure (43) shows a rendering of the inside of the classroom

and the effect of the diffused daylight coming in.

A 50% minimum day-lit area of the total floor area was achieved

to comply with ASHRAE 189.1-2014, section 8.4. the sidelight

technique was used to introduce general, diffused light into the

building. The library area for example, invites daylight through

the windows as it looks over the central courtyard. The

rendering in figure (44)

shows the effectiveness of the sidelight technique

employed in the library.

Figure (44) – Library – 1ST Floor Figure (43) – Classroom – 2nd floor

Figure (42) – Daylight Simulation W/O Light shelf’s

Figure (41) – Daylight Simulation With Light shelf’s



FiberOptics Daylighting Technology: Due to the building form

which makes it an internal load dominated structure as well as the

high degree of solar shading required, daylighting was mainly

considered to reach the interior spaces; therefore, fiber optics

technology was introduced to the project in order to increase the

amount of daylight being received. The solar receivers are mounted

on the roof. These receivers are capable of tracking sunlight

throughout the day to capture sunlight. Optical fibers then transfer

the sunlight through thin and flexible cables with optimized light

transmission. These cables can run up to 200 ft See figure (45).

The use of this technology has some advantages:

1. Heat energy in the solar radiation is primary blocked by the

system which reduces heat gain and heat loads on the

HVAC system in return.

2. No need to create openings in the roof to bring daylight

into the interior space. The openings can affect the

thermal performance of the building. However, fiber

optic cables can run through walls and structure without

any negative impact on the building overall thermal

performance.

3. The system allows for a great integration between

electric lighting and daylighting.

FiberOptics Daylight and Electric Light Integration:

To accomplish a good integration between electric light and

daylighting, the hybrid luminaries are used. These luminaries

combine sunlight with energy efficient LED lighting. When sun

does not provide enough light, the electric LED lights activate to

provide the required light levels in the interior spaces, meaning the

system has embedded photo sensor to control light. Refer to figure

(46).

According to ASHRAE 90.1-2013 , table 9.5.1, the lighting

power density that is recommended for an educational facility is

0.87 W/ft2, using the building area method. Based on the

modifications by ASHRAE 189.1-2014, LPD factor of 0.90 is used to improve the energy performance

of the building. As a result, an adjusted LPD of 0.78 W/ft2 is met by the proposed lighting design.

Additional LED light fixtures are also incorporated into the lighting design to provide electrical light to

meet the lighting level recommended per space. Table (1-1) shows the adjusted LPD recommended

values per space type.

TABLE (1-1): Recommended and Adjusted LPD PER Space Type

Figure (45) – Fiber Optics Technology

Figure (46) – Hybrid Luminaries



Different LED luminaries were selected and used in spaces to meet their types and functions see figure

(47) and (48). LED fixtures are used due to the following:

1. Energy savings with LED lighting up to 50-70%.

2. Up to 50,000 hours which significantly reduces maintenance cost.

3. Reduce carbon footprint when coupled with controls.

4. LED’s are considered low heat producing lights which help in reducing cooling loads.

Figure (47) – Conference & Library Fixture Figure (48) – All Other Spaces Fixture

Refer to table (1-2) for typical spaces and the number of fixtures required to meet the LPD’s

recommended by ASHRAE standard 189.1-2014.

TABLE (1-2): Typical Spaces and Recommended LPD’s

LED Lighting Controls: In order to reduce energy consumption and increase power cost savings,

lighting controls are accompanied with the electrical lighting design. According to ASHRAE 90.1-2013,

all spaces require one or more manual lighting controls to control all of the lighting indoors. All local

controls are placed to be easily accessed by occupants. Scheduled shutoff controls, specifically a time-

of-day operated control devices are used to automatically shut off lighting during periods when spaces

are scheduled to be unoccupied based on the occupancy schedule provided. In addition, a manual override

is provided to override the control system during the unoccupied periods. Refer to table (1-3) for the

automatic shutoff control system schedule. In addition, the system will also be programmed to account

for breaks and holidays. Lights in circulation areas is scheduled to automatically turn on at 6:45 am;

however, the rest of lights are manually turned on.

TABLE (1-3): Automatic Shutoff Schedule



PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM DESIGN

In the interest of introducing an on-site renewable energy system to increase the energy efficiency of the building,

photovoltaic system has been designed to convert the renewable and clean solar energy into electricity. To comply with

ASHRAE 189.1-2014, section 5, more than 75% of the roof surface was utilized to house the PV system.

Photovoltaic System: A local donor will provide funding for the installation of a photovoltaic array that

supports 5% of the total building energy needs. However, the PV array was designed to support an additional

11% of the building power demand. The PV panels are provided and distributed by a local manufacturer to

reduce cost associated with shipping. The PV module are multi-crystalline panels with maximum power of 300

watts. These modules are designed with a high transparency anti soiling surfaces to overcome issues with power

loss and decrease in system’s efficiency due to dirt and dust in Doha, Qatar. Also, 80% of minimum power

output is guaranteed after 25 years of operation. Moreover, the PV panels have a potential to reduce buildings

loads by shading the roof area from direct sunlight.

Design and Calculations of The PV System:

PVWatts Calculator was used to perform PV

calculations to determine the optimum angle for the PV

system and its annual power output. As a result, a tilt

angle of 25º is used to achieve a better system

performance. The PV modules are mounted on the roof

facing south. The layout and spacing of the PV Modules

on the roof were determined to reduce shading effect.

Based on the estimated building demand power loads, a

total of 784.32 kW is consumed by the building. See

Table (1-4). The designed system supports 15% of the

building demand load. Refer to figure (49) for PVWatts

calculations. A total of 160.705 kWh is generated by the

PV system at a total of 313 modules covering most of the

third floor roof area. Figure (49) – PV Results from PVWatts

TABLE (1-4): Building Power Load Estimation



Annual Power Consumption: Calculations

have been conducted to calculate the annual

power consumption based on the given On-

Peak electrical cost that is $0.1614/kWh.

Refer table (1-5) for more detailed

calculations.

TABLE (1-5): Annual Power Consumption

PLUMBING AND FIXTURE SELECTION

Water use efficiency is highly considered in the proposed design as part of the sustainability approaches applied

to ensure reliable supplies today and for future generations. To comply with ASHRAE 189.1-2014 standard,

section 6.3.2, plumbing fixtures were selected to assure water conservation especially in a climate like Doha’s.

LEED standard recommended flow rate values are also satisfied with the selected fixtures.

To comply with table 6.3.2.1, ASHRAE 189.1-2014 standard, low flow, efficient plumbing fixtures were

selected from a local manufacturer and distributor to design the plumbing system for the educational

building.

1. High efficiency toilet with low flow at 1.0 gpm that is less than the

recommended value, 1.28 gpm. These fixtures assure potable water

reduction of approximately 40% because the system uses pressure

instead of gravity, so it creates a strong flushing action for both

liquid and solid waste. Figure (50).

2. Waterless urinals are selected to be incorporated into the plumbing

system to reduce water and sewer bills. It also helps reduces

installation, building operating and maintenance cost since no inlet

piping is required as well as there is no overflows issues. Figure

(51). To assure a safe sanitary and odor free environment, a sealant

should be used.

3. Sensor faucets are selected with flow values as low as 1.0 gpm.

The fixtures are equipped with infrared sensor occupant

detection to control water usage. The sensor is powered by a 10-

year battery to save energy.

4. Low flow metering kitchen faucet were selected with a flow rate

value of 1.5 gpm which is less than the Recommended value by

ASHRAE 189.1-2014 Standard, 2.2 gpm.

Figure (50) – High Efficiency Toilet

Figure (51) – Average Urinal Water Consumption



Calculations have been conducted to determine the percent reduction resulted from using high efficient

plumbing fixtures. Refer to table (1-6).

TABLE (1-6-A): Annual Water Consumption

Water consumption measurement devices with remote communication capability will be provided to

gather water consumption data for the building. The water being supplied to the building is monitored.

Based on table 6.3.3A in ASHRAE 189.1-2014 standard, the water supply source measurement

thresholds will not be exceeded according to the average building daily water consumption of 650 gallons.

TABLE (1-6-B) – Annual Water Collection



MECHANICAL SYSTEM DESIGN

When designing the HVAC system, the main objectives were to design a system that meets and exceeds the owner’s

goals of low utility and maintenance costs, easy maintenance, and excellent indoor air quality with a high quality

HVAC system performance. The HVAC system needs to have a very good life cycle cost and provide a high level

of occupant comfort. In addition to this, it must comply with ASHRAE 90.1, ASHRAE 62.1, and ASHRAE 55

standards.

Mechanical System: A number of

systems were considered as an

option for use in this building as the

primary source of cooling. Among

the first analyzed and dismissed

was Geothermal cooling. Due to

the high earth temperatures in the

area there would be little benefit

from this natural energy source.

See Figure (52) for the earth

temperatures at various depths in

Qatar.

District cooling is available on the site but will not be used as a primary source of cooling because based

on owners directives, the system should be a sustainable design, and although this would offer the lowest

installation cost of the optional systems, it will not provide the owner with the ability to provide green

energy technology for cooling. The two remaining systems that we were considering was either a VRV

system powered from a solar array, or a VAV system powered by a solar thermal chiller. Benefits and

drawbacks of each system were investigated and shown below.

VRV: These systems offer a large amount of occupant control in the spaces which ensures comfort for

the majority of those in the building. If powered by a solar array on the building this also has low operating

costs because of alternative energy. A drawback of this system is that it is more expensive to install then

traditional HVAC systems, and is more difficult to identify and repair system problems. Refrigerant leaks

can go on for quite some time before being noticed and then to identify where the leak is special

equipment to detect refrigerant is needed. This system is also not as economically friendly at the end of

its lifecycle. Both refrigerant and solar panels require special considerations during disposal because of

their negative affect on the environment. There are currently movements to begin special recycling

programs for solar panels once they are retired; however these are not in place and until then they are still

classified as hazardous waste.

VAV: This system allows occupants a more precise temperature control then other traditional HVAC

systems. The ability to control airflow at each space also allows for energy savings in fan usage, while

still offering a less expensive initial cost then VRV systems. Contrary to the solar power needed by the

VRV system, this system uses solar thermal power which is hot water gathered from the sun. This power

source offers a much higher module efficiency then solar power while also using panels that are 99%

recyclable material. The only part of the product that is not recyclable is the caulk that binds the glass

Figure (52) - Ground temperatures at various levels below grade in Doha, Qatar.



tube element in the collector to the metal frame. This system was chosen for use in our project because

of the practicality, energy efficiency, and economical benefits that showed in our initial analysis.

Solar Thermal Collection: The location of the site in Qatar is ideal for solar energy collection. This is

primarily due to its proximity to the equator and its average cloud cover. Figure (53) is a global map that

shows what areas are able to benefit most from solar collection. Figure (54) is data collected from Green

Building Studio which shows how much cloud cover can be expected on the site and shows that over

70% of the day there will be no cloud cover. As the most prominent source of natural energy, the sun’s

energy will be harvested with solar thermal collectors and used to power not only a solar thermal chiller,

but also the building heat, as well as the domestic hot water.

Fresnel Collectors are high output solar collectors that utilize mirrors to focus the sunlight onto an absorber at the

reflection focal point. This technology increases the intensity of the suns energy and can multiply it up to 30 times

stronger. Figure (56-A) shows a single module of Fresnel Collectors, while figure (56-B) is an illustration of how

tracking mirrors are used to ensure the solar energy is focused properly on the absorber tube.

This system provides hot water ranging from 300 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit that is contained in a pressurized

loop, which will transfer its energy to a buffer storage tank. This buffer storage ensures that the cooling system

will be able to continue operating hours that the heat collection system is generating lower energy due to weather

or maintenance.

Figure (53) – Solar Collection Global Map Figure (54) – Total Sky Cover in Doha, Qatar

Figure (56-B) – Solar Thermal Collector Figure (56-A)– Solar Thermal Collector



Solar Hot Water Uses: There are a number of uses in a building for hot water, and if sized properly, the

solar hot water collectors can provide the hot water for all of these uses. The solar hot water system in

this building is used to provide hot water to the following systems: domestic hot water, HVAC heating

hot water, and absorption chiller thermal power.

Solar Thermal Absorption Chiller: In conventional systems, a chiller would use gas or electric power

to power the chiller. With this system the hot water is used as the source of power instead of a gas burner.

This eliminates a huge amount of power needed to provide building cooling. An energy usage comparison

was done between two Trane models of absorption chillers, one powered by hot water and one powered

by electricity and the results of that comparison are shown below in table (1-7). The KW required for the

solar thermal chiller is a combination of both the power required for the chiller (2.5 KW) as well as the

additional pump required to circulate the hot water (5.6 KW). We also used this information to find out

how long it would take benefits of the solar thermal array to outweigh the costs and that data is shown in

able (1-8). A diagram of how this absorption chiller is powered is shown below in figure (57).

TABLE (1-7): Electric and Solar Thermal Absorption Chiller comparison

TABLE (1-8)

Figure (57): Solar Thermal Absorption Chiller Operation Diagram



Cooling Tower: Due to the dusty nature of the climate we have chosen to go with a closed loop cooling

tower to reject condenser heat from the absorption chiller. A closed loop cooling tower never allows any

of the water that will circulate through the chiller to be exposed to the atmosphere. This is important for

Doha, Qatar because in the event of dust storms the chiller is protected. Although this does come at a

higher cost, it increases the life of the absorption chiller, as well as decreasing the required maintenance

on the chiller which results in cost savings. Figure (58) below shows the operation of this type of cooling

tower.

Air Distribution System: The building is divided into four separate main air handler zone, as shown in

Figure (59) above. One for the woodshop, one for the welding lab, one for the east wing of the building

and one for the west. Both the woodshop and the welding lab will have their own air handling unit due

to the fact that they require a higher percentage of outside air than the other spaces in the building

according to ASHRAE 62.1. The other two zones are cooled by two air handing units located in the

basement with air intakes in the center courtyard. The air intakes were placed in this location in order to

take advantage of the slightly cooler air that is in this open courtyard due to the protection from the sun.

Another benefit of this location is more protection for the air intakes from dust storms which will help to

increase the life of the air filters and reduce the maintenance load. Exhausts for the air handlers are located

on the lower level roof which ensures that they are more the 10 feet away from the intakes and eliminates

the possibility of recirculation of exhaust air. All four of the air handlers are equipped with energy

recovery wheels as required by ASHRAE 90.1. The two main air handlers located in the basement provide

air to all three stories through two risers, one each. Each room is equipped with a terminal box that is tied

to a thermostat and occupancy sensor in that space. In the spaces that only require a single diffuser to

supply the required CFM, a VAV diffuser is used in place of a terminal box with a diffuser. This

eliminates the cost of the additional box while still offering space temperature controls. When any space

is unoccupied the unit maintains an unoccupied temperature of 82 degrees. This building uses a plenum

return which offers an effective return while saving the cost of additional ductwork instillation. See Figure

(60) for a full system schematic diagram of the mechanical system.

Figure (58) – Active Cooling Tower Figure (59) – Building Zone



Figure (60) – System Schematic

Figure (61) – HVAC Duct Layout

Basement Level First Level

Second Level Third Level



Indoor Environmental Quality

IAQ: Excellent IAQ is not only a goal set to us by the owner, but also a requirement by ASHRAE 62.1.

This was achieved by ensuring that each space received its required amount of outdoor air at all times, as

well as ensuring that all outdoor air was properly filtered upon entering the building. Building air handlers

will be equipped with MERV 12 filters which go above and beyond that required by ASHRAE and ensure

very clean air to meet the owner’s requirements. No special considerations were needed for tobacco

smoke in this building because smoking inside of the building is prohibited. Any tobacco smoke outdoors

will be far enough from the air intake that there is no need for a higher level MERV filter. In addition,

building entrances have airlock vestibules in order to reduce air infiltration when doors are open.

Calculations to determine the minimum amount of ventilation air for each air handler as specified by

ASHRAE 62.1 is shown below in table (1-9). Outside air intakes are controlled by motorized dampers

that are programed to go no lower than this minimum level while the building is occupied. Each room

has its own VAV terminal unit that is also programmed to always allow in the appropriate airflow to

maintain these minimum OA values.

Sound Performance: Another important element of controlling indoor environmental quality is

assuring that the HVAC system does not create noise in the space. Owner requirements set for

acoustical properties of the spaces match those required by ASHRAE for the classroom spaces and

library at NC 30 rated, and the office spaces at NC 35. In order to achieve these values all ducts located

over any office or classroom spaces have a design airflow of no more than 1000 FPM, and all diffusers

are sized to not exceed the NC rating. Additional precautions have been taken to ensure there are

smooth duct transitions, elbows, and takeoffs to reduce airflow noise. All terminal units are located in

corridors outside of the space served to also reduce noise in classrooms and offices.

Shop Space IAQ: The workshops that are on the first floor require special considerations for air quality

due to the nature of the space usage. The welding shop requires local exhaust vents for each of the six

owner required partitions, each equipped with heat recovery. In the carpentry space there are a number

of woodworking tools that are directly ducted to a cyclone dust collector system. This system will be

locate outdoors to eliminate the need for a special explosion rated enclosure. Air then will be returned

to the air handler to pass through the energy recovery wheel before being exhausted.

TABLE (1-9) – Minimum Amount of Ventilation Air for AHU



ENERGY MODEL COMPARISON

By law a building must adhere to the energy requirements of ASHRAE 90.1, but in this case, the owner

set energy goals of meeting the minimum requirements set by ASHRAE 189.1, the standard for high

performance buildings. Another goal of the owner was to use at least 15% more energy than ASHRAE

90.1 allowed.

In order to see what these energy requirements entailed, Revit’s ability to analyze heating and cooling

loads of a building was used and tested with a few different types of construction. For the initial run, the

minimum R-values specified in ASHRAE 90.1-2013 per zone 1 were used. See table (1-10)

As shown in this initial analysis, in cooling season the building load is internally dominated, with the

next major load due to fenestrations. With this load completed as a base run we changed the material

values to meet those required by ASHRAE 189.1-2014 which was the required minimum values to

follow. As shown below in table (1-11), there is a good deal of improvement in the cooling and heating

load in the building.

TABLE (1-10) – Basic Run for Heating and Cooling Loads

TABLE (1-11) – Basic Run for Heating and Cooling Loads



The high performance building code values eliminated a very large energy loss through both glazing as

well as walls, but had a minimal effect on energy lost through the roof. Although the overall benefit of

this change was good, in cooling season the AHSRAE 189.1-2014 requirements only saved 10.9% on the

energy requirements, which did not meet the owner’s request of 15%. In order to meet this need, the

thermal values of the building elements were increased and the values that were shown earlier were used

in the building envelope. An energy load analysis were performed with these new properties and those

results are shown below in table (1-12)

With these new thermal properties the design was able to achieve savings of 15.5% over the required

minimum values which satisfies the owner’s requirements, as well as exceeds all ASHRAE requirements.

Because this building is constructed primarily of precast concrete elements, there are many less joints in

the building which makes it easier to seal and build of tight construction. All the previous energy runs

were done with the assumption that the building was standard construction, but because of the limited

amount of joints it would not take much time or costs to construct this building with tight construction.

Another analysis was conducted of materials of our choice with tight construction type. The results are

shown below in table (1-13).

TABLE (1-12) – New Run for Heating and Cooling Loads

TABLE (1-13) – New Run for Heating and Cooling Loads



The outcome of this analysis showed that the loads due to infiltration were cut in half and the overall load

decreased slightly. With this change we were able to save an additional few on the cooling load which

brings our final energy savings up to 17.9% over the minimum ASHRAE values.

An important part of choosing thermal values in a building is knowing where your weakest link is and

strengthening that area, in this case by improving thermal properties of that area. A very useful part of

Revit’s ability to calculate loads in a building is because it takes your building exactly as it is modeled

and shows you where you’re worst loads are generated from. In our case people were the largest cooling

load, but this is not something we could change. The amount of heat they generate is consistent at 250

Btu/h Sensible load and 200 Btu/h Latent load. The next highest load we could address though, it was

fenestrations. As you can see, moving from a U-value of over 4, required by 90.1 to a U-value of 0.25

had a massive change and cut the load in half. It was this method that we chose R-values of our building

elements to meet the requirements.

Trusting the values that are given by your analysis software is important when making design decisions

so it is good to know how your software calculates the building load. The analysis in Revit calculates the

loads just as you would if it was done on paper, where it takes the areas of different building elements in

each space and determines the heat transfer through that element based on the design conditions of Doha

Qatar. The design conditions are from a local weather station and are shown below in Figure (62).

Indoor design conditions used when running these different load checks are based on the owner

requirements of 73.4 degrees DB at 50% RH while occupied and an unoccupied temperature of 82 degrees

DB at 50% RH.

Code Compliance:

It is expected and required that construction of this building meets requirements set by ASHRAE 90.1

Section 5.4 with regards to proper insulation, fenestrations and building elements being properly sealed.

Figure (62) – Doha, Qatar Design Conditions



FIRE DETECTION, PROTECTION, AND SUPRESSION SYSTEM

To prevent passage and spread of smoke and fire within the building to allow for a safe escape for building

occupants and reduce damage to the building in case of fire, automatic sprinkler system, smoke detectors, and

fire alarms are utilized to meet IBC requirements.

Automatic Sprinkler System: Using precast concrete structural

system in the building design makes it classified as type 1

construction which assists in reducing damage to the building

structure and prevents collapse of the building. Based on the

height, area, and use, automatic sprinkler system is only applied on

the moderate and low-hazardous spaces in the first floor, the

welding and carpentry shop spaces.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm: To provide

safety in case of fire, a detection system that integrates smoke, heat

and carbon monoxide sensors is used to meet the minimum

building safety requirements. The system is compact in one unit to

eliminate the need for separate detectors which results in a

significant cost and maintenance savings. All building levels will

be supplied with this alarm system. Fire alarm system will be

connected to the automatic sprinkler system to be activated in case

of fire. See figure (63).

Figure (63) – Smoke, Fire, and CO Detector



TABLE (1-14) – Cost Analysis Summary

COST ANALYSIS

To calculate the cost of the material and the installation, an excel sheet was created to write down the

list of materials that were used and how much they will cost – this is provided on the following page,

table (1-14). The cost value was used from the RSMeans Assemblies Cost Data textbook of 2008. A 3%

was added to the final value as the escalation rate from 2008 to 2015. A typical sixth form college

building type located in Qatar would usually cost 184.95 $/sf to construct. However, the high

performance educational building costs 169.24 $/sf, which is lower than the budget of 200 $/sf the

owner provided.

By adding the annual savings from the PV systems on the roof with the HVAC system, the estimated

payback for the alternative energy systems cost is 15.9 years.



APPENDICES

LEED CHECKLIST


Integrated Sustainable Building Design – ASHRAE 2015

SITE RENDERINGS



BUILDING RENDERINGS



WEST WALL SECTION



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Documents

ASHRAE 2015 Integrated Sustainable Building Design (ISBD