This portfolio document provides a summary of Gopal N.P.'s academic and professional qualifications and works. It includes projects from his Bachelor of Architecture degree focusing on vernacular architecture in South India and urban design studies. It also lists internship experience with architecture firms in New Delhi and Gandhinagar. The portfolio highlights a regional information center design project in Rajkot respecting the local building traditions and a hypothetical city design exploring urban planning strategies.

1. PORTFOLIO | GOPAL N.P.
PROFESSIONAL WORKS

2. PORTFOLIO | CONTENTS
VSA°
INDUBHAI PAREKH SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE, RAJKOT
WELSH SCHOOL OF ARCH, CARDIFF UNIVERSITY
AT ASHOK B. LALL ARCHITECTS, NEW DELHI
VERNACULAR ARCHITECTURE, SOUTH INDIA INDIAN INSTITTUE OF PUBLIC
HEALTH, GANDHINAGAR
COURSE : B. ARCH COURSE : ENVIRONMENTAL
STUDY OF BRAHMIN IYERS, DESIGN OF BUILDINGS
LIVING CITY DESIGN
REGIONAL INFORMATION KERALA
COMPETITION
CENTER,RAJKOT
AIM : To study the way of life of OFFICE BUILDING, AHMEDABAD
INSTITUTE OF RURAL RESEARCH
MAKING OF A CITY Brahmins in Nurani Village. To
AND DEVELOPMENT, GURGAON
understand the relation between RESEARCH & DESIGN PROJECT
RELATED STUDY PROGRAMME the houses with the ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN
EXPOSURE TO CONCEPTS IN
- AT DWARKA, GUJARAT PROFESSIONAL WORKS environment and to study the
generators of the house form.
OTHER PROJECTS APPLICATION- INTEGRATION OF
- AT JUNAGADH, GUJARAT SHADING DEVICE AND PV
PROFESSIONAL WORKS
ACADEMICS UNDERGRADUATE THESIS PROFESSIONAL WORKS ACADEMICS - MASTERS

3. REGIONAL INFORMATION CENTER
REGIONAL INFORMATION CENTRE| RAJKOT
DESIGN STUDIO – 5TH SEMESTER
RAJKOT
INDIA
MODEL – THE ANCIENT BRITISH STRUCUTRE IN THE BACKDROP
THE SITE MODEL
ABOUT THE PROJECT :
To upgrade the tourism potential & general awareness of Rajkot City in particular and the
region in general.
Respecting the old museum building & the parks & acknowledging the building tradition of
the region, it is desired that the new building create a changed identity for Rajkot, as an
economically and cultural hub of the region.
RESPONSE TO CONTEXT
RESPECT TO BRITISH
MUSEUM
USE OF LOCAL MATERIALS
USE OF WOODEN FRAMES
IN WINDOWS
REFLECT THE BUILDING
DESIGN INTENT : To capture the existing movement of the people in an informal manner. To MATERIAL OF THE BRITISH
BUILDING
respect the British Museum which is a force in the existing site.
PROFESSIONAL WORKS PROCESSS MODELS AND FINAL DESIGN MODEL
1
ACADEMICS

4. MAKING OF A CITY, URBAN DESIGN
MAKING OF A CITY – URBAN DESIGN| HYPOTHETICAL CITY DESIGN
DESIGN STUDIO – 9TH SEMESTER ( GROUP PROJECT)
ABOUT THE PROJECT :
To DESIGN a hypothetical city with the help of 7 cities (Rome, Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad,
Paris, Venice and London). To explain strategies behind the city layout and develop spaces
in the city, to develop road sections and design one of the spaces within a specified area.
THE CITY PLAN & ZONING
THE ONLY REMAINING PART OF THE FORT
USED AS A BACKDROP FOR THE BUILDING
THE HERITAGE PARK
To design a heritage park on the riverbank. The concept
was to use the fort wall as the back drop for display of
various historical events which can be shown
dramatically with the texture and height of the fort wall.
SPACES WITHIN THE PROPOSED CITY
2
ACADEMICS

5. RELATED STUDY PROGRAMME
RESEARCH, DOCUMENTATION & DESIGN DURING RELATED STUDY PROGRAM AT
DWARKA,GUJARAT (SEM -4) AND AT JUNAGADH, GUJARAT (SEM-5)
PROFESSIONAL WORKS
3
ACADEMICS

6. STUDY OF HOUSEFORMS OF BRAHMIN IYERS, KERALA
STUDY OF BRAHMIN IYERS, NURANI | KERALA, INDIA
STRUCTURE OF STUDY
AIM : To study the way of life of Brahmins in Nurani Village. To ABOUT NURANI
RELATIONSHIPS
understand the relation between the houses with the
-Building & context
environment and to study the generators of the house form. -Plan and Section
GENERIC PATTERNS
-Functional Areas
-Spatial Organisation
-Public, Semi-Public & Private Areas
INDIA -Usage Patterns
FRONT ELEVATION -Later additions if any
NURANI is one of the 18 villages in ELEMENTS
Palakkad. The village or the -Climatic Considerations
agraharam has a total of 565 houses -Circulation
VILLAGE
in all. All the houses in the villages ENTRANCE -Structure
NURANI MAP SHOWING SETTLEMENTS OF
BRAHMINS IN PALAKKAD are around 300 years old. ISSUES
-Privacy
-Security
HOUSE RELATIONSHIPS
STREET PATTERN
The form of these agraharams could be
understood as a derivative of a grid
SOME PECULIAR ELEMENTS SHIVA
GANESH pattern, with the temple forming the
TEMPLE main focus. There are narrow row houses
TEMPLE
on both the sides of the streets each
sharing a common wall.
CAR STREET VILLAGE TEMPLES
SECRET STORE
COURTYARD
PASSAGE FOR LIGHT &
RESTING SPACE
VENTILATION
ENTRANCE SACRED SPACE STORAGE YARD
KITCHEN
STREET THINNAI NADAI STAIRCASE MITTHAM SERVICES
PROFESSIONAL WORKS
TULSI MARAM WELL RENDAM KETTU BACKYARD SERVICE
4
UNDERGRADUATE THESIS

7. STUDY OF HOUSEFORMS OF BRAHMIN IYERS, KERALA
SPACES AND SPATIAL ELEMENTS SPECIAL LOCKING SYSTEM Partitions placed at an inclined angle cuts
NO METAL IS USED off the harsh sunlight entering the
Koodam which is the main sacred space
in the house.
The Puja space resembles
Although the internal structure is the entrance to the temple.
SACRED SPACE
complex, the external load bearing walls
respond to the context and they share a
common wall with the adjacent house. THE ENTRANCE DOOR & PUJA SPACE
SLOPING ROOFS RESPOND STORAGE SPACE SECTION THROUGH THE COURT THE CENTRAL COURT
TIMBER LOAD
TO CLIMATE (PRTOECTION AGAINST
BEARING STRUCTURE WINDOW CUM MOSITURE)
BED
INTERACTIVE ROOM
ROOM SPACE
TRANSITION SECURITY PUJA SPACE
PASSAGE LIVING SPACE SERVICE AREAS
COURT
FUNCTIONAL AREAS
FIRST PART SECOND PART
19
4 5 9 10 12 15
14 17
2 16
6 18
11
1 8 13
3 7
20
1. VASHAL 5. NILAVARA 9. PUJA SPACE 13. SERVICE 17. RENDAM KETTU A TYPICAL VILLAGE HOUSE
2. THINNAI 6. ARAI 10. KOODAM 14. TULASI MARAM 18. BACKYARD
3. PADDI 7. NADAI 11. MITTHAM 15. SERVICE 19. DRY LATRINE
LEGEND 4. PATHAYAM 8. STAIRCASE 12. ADUKULAI 16. WELL 20. SERVICE LANE
5
UNDERGRADUATE THESIS

8. STUDY OF HOUSEFORMS OF BRAHMIN IYERS, KERALA
THE STRUCTURAL SYSTEM
LOAD IS TRANSFERRED IN
A very complex structural system 5 TIERS ONTO THE LOAD
BEARING WALLS
with external load bearing walls USE OF LOCALLY
with timber as the main spanning AVAILABLE CLAY TILE
material between the walls.
TRADITIONAL SYSTEM OF
COLUMN CAPITAL WOODEN BATTERNS
JOISTS AND WOOD
PANELS
INTRICATELY CARVED CIRCULATION
FASCIA
The houses of Brahmins perfectly fits the law of linear
CONSTRUCTION DETAIL organization with a clear demarcation of spaces as
public, semi-public and private areas.
CLIMATIC RESPONSE & SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES RAIN WATER FLOW
RAIN WATER FLOW
Use of charcoal & red
oxide with cow dung to
demarcate various
spaces within the house.
HOUSE 1 ROOF SYSTEM & THE BACKYARD FOR GROWING VEGETABLES
FLOORING HOUSE 2
PASSAGE AS BUFFER The roof system was planned in such a way that, there were no gutters formed
FOR PROTECTION anywhere in the house. The water collected in the central courtyard used to be diverted
AGAINST HARSH SUN
to the backyard for watering the vegetables and also for ground water recharge.
WATER FLOWS TO THE
BACKYARD AND IS USED
FOR WATERING
VEGETABLE BEDS
6
UNDERGRADUATE THESIS

9. STUDY OF HOUSEFORMS OF BRAHMIN IYERS, KERALA
THE CHANGING PARADIGM
CHANGING ATTITUDES – Openness to other cultures, new
developments in technology, outward shift of the people.
CULTURAL & SOCIAL – Joint families have turned nuclear families.
Most of the villages are locked throughout the year.
PRESENT DAY COURT
TECHNOLOGICAL – The new technological developments have
decreased the importance of elements such as tanks/wells, the
central court.
People have started renovating their houses with R.C.C. hence
destroying the traditional look of the village. Major problems like
seepage, improper ventilation are faced due to the changes in the
construction system.
ORIGINAL AREA OF THE COURT
FRONT ELEVATION
3D VIEW SHOWING THE ALTERATION IN THE
TRADITIONAL SPACES
A MODIFIED HOUSE - The all
important ‘thinnai’ (transitional &
an active interactive space is
compromised for security and
privacy reasons.. Parking vehicles REMOVAL OF COURT
is a common site in the village.
VIEW OF THE ENCLOSED FRONT FACADE
PRESENT DAY COURT
REMOVAL OF CENTRAL COURT TO CONVERT THE SPACE INTO A
LIVING ROOM. EFFECT – NO LIGHT & NO VENTILATION
ADDITION OF TOILETS &
BEDROOM BATHROOM CROSS SECTION
KITCHEN
SPACE COMPOROMISED
FOR SECURITY
VIEW OF THE LIVING SPACE
LONGITUDINAL SECTION THROUGH A MODIFIED HOUSE
7
UNDERGRADUATE THESIS

10. MEMBER OF THE DESIGN TEAM UNDER ASHOK B. LALL
IIPH - INSTITUTE
THE SITE
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC HEALTH| GANDHINAGAR, INDIA
TOTAL SITE AREA – 49 ACRES. BUILT UP AREA – 20,000 SQUARE METERS
GANDHINAGAR
INDIA
3D VIEWS – INDIAN INSTITUTE OF PUBLIC HEALTH, GANDHINAGAR
ABOUT THE PROJECT :
The design for the campus of the Indian Institute of Public Health, Gandhinagar seeks to promote an
institutional culture of sharing and exchange of knowledge and experience and of systematic research
and enquiry.
ENERGY MANAGEMENT THE PLAN TAKES ADVANTAGE OF THE UNIQUE NATURAL CHARACTER OF THE SITE, ITS TOPOGRAPHY, ITS
RELATIONSHIP WITH THE SABARMATI RIVER, AND ITS POTENTIAL OF A RICH AND DIVERSE ECOLOGY OF FLORA
AND FAUNA, AND ITEGRATES THE INSTITTUES FACILITIES WITH THE LANDSCAPE.
- Energy Efficient Design
- Passive Cooling
Minimizing the CO2 emissions in Minimizing embodied energy in
- Daylighting
construction and building operation. building materials and construction
- Insulated Building Skin
- Use of local/low Protecting and regenerating the
embodied Energy ecology of the site
Materials Minimizing operational energy for
- Use of Local Protecting air, water and ground lighting , water heating , ventilation
pollution and ecological damage of and thermal comfort.
Technology
site and beyond
Thermal comfort
ANALYSIS - Minimize air conditioning demand
FOR IDENTIFICATION OF BUILDABLE AREAS ON SITE Lighting
- All work spaces day lit.
To reduce cut and fill & minimeze disturbance to - Fluorescent lights
the natural topography, areas with slopes > 15%
are to be avoided.
ECONOMIC SOLUTIONS FOR INTERNAL TEMPERATURE CONTROL
8
PROFESSIONAL WORKS

11. MEMBER OF THE DESIGN TEAM UNDER ASHOK B. LALL
IIPH - INSTITUTE
PASSIVE TEMPERATURE CONTROL MATERIALS
Low Cost, Energy
construction. HOLLOW CONCRETE BLOCKS
Limiting minimum
use of steel The hollow blocks are commonly used due to its cheaper cost, quick
processing of work etc. . Hollow blocks construction provides
facilities for concealing electrical conduit, water and soil pipes etc. It
Local Material use
saves cement in masonry work, bringing down cost of construction
Shading devices very considerably.
Local Techniques
integrated into employed
building elevation
.
FLOORING MATERIAL
design. RESOURCE EFFICIENT CONSTRUCTION
The use of locally
available Baroda
Tailored to site, MATERIALITY
Green and Kota
Buildings An enjoyed aesthetic based Stone for most of
integrated with on local low embodied energy the flooring
environment materials. .
BARODA GREEN KOTA STONE
HOLLOW BLOCKS
OPEN SPACE
Erosion Control As extension of the built LOAD BEARING STRUCTURE TO MINIMISE THE QUANTITY OF STEEL USED IN THE CONSTRUCTION PROCESS.
Strategy space – comfortable and
habitable. SHADING DEVICE WITH TRANSPARENCY IN SHADING DEVICES. PLACEMENT
BAMBOO CHICS ACCORING TO THE LOCATION OF WINDOWS
Water NATURAL ELEMENTS COVERED PATHWAY
Management A ritual recognition and SMALL WINDOWS IN THE
symbolic presence of Nature WEST IN LIBRARY
& Seasons.
COMFORT
Planting Strategy Accepting adjustment and
rehabilitating variation within limits as an
local habitat energising principle
TECHNOLOGIES
MINIMAL SITE DISTURBANCE Supporting local enterprise
and knowledge for social
development.
.
THE LAWN LOOKING TOWARDS THE RIVER
THE DINING/LIBRARY BUILDING One of the four buildings in the large IIPH Campus at Gandhingar, this building houses the Dining
Centre for the students on the lower floors and the Library on the top floor.
SURFACE FINISH .
9
PROFESSIONAL WORKS

12. AWARD WINNING ENTRY AT THE INTERNATIONAL LIVING CITY DESIGN COMPETITION
LIVING CITY DESIGN COMPETITION
CUL DE SAC SHARED
PARKING LOTS
ABOUT THE PROJECT :
It is a competition hosted by The International Living Building Institute℠, in partnership
with the National Trust for Historic Preservation, to create a new global vision: a breath-
taking, compelling model for the future of civilization. It also focuses on the best
Example of the city of the future that gracefully preserves and respects the historic
context of its community and the existing built fabric in 2010.
INTENTION :
To promote social and economic justice, restoring
BAOLI – DEMOCRATIC
Environmental health and a renewed engagement
SHARED OPEN SPACES
With nature.
MULTILEVEL PARKING LOT CUM RETAIL SPACE
PV Tree
Use of solar trees as integral part of the structure
DELHI
SOLAR FOOD COURT
SITE
BOWLI – RAIN WATER HARVESTING CHAMBER
LANDSCAPING ALONG WATER BODY
Community Gathering Spaces (Festivals)
Vegetated Open Space, Inviting Migratory
Birds (Nature) & source of water.
10
PROFESSIONAL WORKS

13. AWARD WINNING ENTRY AT THE INTERNATIONAL LIVING CITY DESIGN COMPETITION
LIVING CITY DESIGN COMPETITION
MARKET STREET REJUVINATING THE OPEN MARKET
Take away the cars and you have a market The trees shelter the open stalls and MALVIYA NAGAR TYPOLOGY HOUSING
vendors. The road goes back to the nature in the form of agricultural land.
Along the main edge streets mixed development
MALVIYA NAGAR, MARKET:
replaces low density housing. Street face gains
wide shaded sidewalks. Residences from garden
courts with terraces and balconies overlook
them. Roofs have PV and rain water collectors. 3D- VIEW
THE BUILDING YARD:
MALVIYA NAGAR, IMPROVED HOMES
Remove Cars
and restore the
playground. Find
space for
growing food.
Regeneration of buildings produces
Introduce courts
construction waste and debris,
with rain catcher
reconstruction uses with resource.
roofs.
NEW HOUSES FOR SLUM DWELLERS The center is state provided for
production workshops and waste
recycling incorporating residence
for workers.
LOW INCOME HOUSING
CLUSTER PLAN
KHIRKEE VILLAGE
EXISTING PROPOSED MODIFIED
11
PROFESSIONAL WORKS

14. TRAINEE IN PHASE 1. MEMBER OF DESIGN TEAM IN PHASE 2 UNDER ASHOK B. LALL
IRRAD - INSTITUTION
INSTITUTE OF RURAL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT | GURGAON, INDIA
RAMP
TOTAL SITE AREA – 5112 SQ. MTS.
PHASE 1 – COMPLETED & PHASE 2 – IN ADVANCED STAGE OF CONSTUCTION
RECEPTION
PHASE - 2
GURGAON
GARDEN ON
OFFICE SPACE
BASEMENT ROOF
INDIA
PHASE - 1
5
GUEST HOUSE
IRRAD – PH 1. AWARDED THE LEED PLATINUM RATING IN 2009
ABOUT THE PROJECT :
IRRAD is an initiative of Sehgal Foundation, to further the well being of rural communities
in India. IRRAD leads by example, putting the latest knowledge into use. Its a smart mix of
simplicity in design and environment friendly sustainable green features.
The appearance and the aesthetic quality of the building is derived from the principles of
sustainable design – the use of natural materials, minimal use of glass and shading devices. 5 SITE PLAN
SHADING FOR TERRACE SHADING
DEVICE
PROPOSED PERSPECTIVE VIEW - PHASE 2 LOW
FLOOR
INSULATION +
TO
STONE
FLOOR
CLADDING
GARDEN HEIGHT
One enters the building through an open to sky court(3), a feature
that is prevalent in most traditional building forms in India.
The entrance court houses a water body, and around it there are
spaces for interaction which is extended to the floor above(2)
PARKING
The covered walkway that leads from the office building to the
guest house flanks the cafeteria – becoming an extension of the
cafeteria while connecting the two buildings.(6) RAINWATER HARVESTING TANK
SECTION SHOWING SOME OF THE STRATEGIES USED FOR PHASE - 2
12
PROFESSIONAL WORKS

15. TRAINEE IN PHASE 1. MEMBER OF DESIGN TEAM IN PHASE 2 UNDER ASHOK B. LALL
IRRAD - INSTITUTION
PROPOSED PERSPECTIVE VIEW – PHASE 2
IRRAD WALL SECTION PHASE 2
- Insulated Building HIGHLIY REFLECTIVE CHINA
- Shading devices MOSAIC FINISH OVER BRICK BAT
RADIANT SLAB
AND 50 MM PUF INSULATION
- Emphasis on Daylighting COOLING
- Reflective roof finish
- Radiant Cooling Slab THERMAL BREAK IN
EXPOSED CONCRETE NIB
- Local Materials
- Re-used materials SHADING DEVICE
- Wood from certified forests
- Zero run off at site
- Water waste recycling
DE HUMIFIED FRESH AIR SUPPLY
& water harvesting
- Photovoltaic Panels
UPSTAND BEAM FOR PROVISION
OF GLASS BLCOKS IN LOWER
SPECIAL FEATURES FLOORS
BAMBOO BOARD
GLASS BLCOKS FOR DIFFUSED IN INTERIORS
PHASE 2 – SHADING DEVICE LIGHT IN OFFICE AREA
SHADING DEVICE:
The geometry was worked out
with the help of a solar chart and
simulation software (Ecotect) to
block the summer radiation,
without obstructing the view and
- EXTERNAL SHADING DEVICE DESIGNED TO BLOCK SUMMER GLARE
allowing the winter sun to - DOUBLE GLASS PANES USED IN THE BUILDING
penetrate into the rooms. - DRY STONE CLADDING ON WALLS TO MINIMESE USE OF WATER DURING
CONSTRUCTION
LOUVERES - EXTERNAL WALL IS LOW EMBODIED ENERGY AND USE OF HIGHLY INSULATED
The external shading device is designed as a separate USING 50 MM THK PUF AND CEB BLOCK EXCAVATED AND PRESSED AT SITE
framework, detached from the main structural system of the - BAMBOO PLY A RAPID RENEWABLE MATERIAL IS USED IN PARTITIONS TO REPLACE
building to reduce the conduction of heat from outside. GLASS HWEREVER LIGHT WAS NOT REQUIRED.
The shading device creates a dynamic façade by
enhancing the play of light & shadow on solid
stone backdrop
The building is punctured with courts at
junctions where air and light need to be
COURT introduced – providing relief from a
monotonous enclosed space, much like
TRADITIONAL INDIAN structures that
articulated open spaces in this way to work
with smaller structural spans and a greater
variety of spaces that were appropriate for a
THE CENTRAL COURT range of thermal and lighting conditions.. THE EXPOSED WALL WITH MUD BRICKS & THE SHADING SYSTEM FOR THE TERRACE GARDEN
13
PROFESSIONAL WORKS

16. TRAINEE IN PHASE 1. MEMBER OF DESIGN TEAM IN PHASE 2 UNDER ASHOK B. LALL
IRRAD - INSTITUTION
PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS
MATERIALS:
EXCAVATED EARTH USED FOR 35 KW SOLAR POWER –
The Steel structure is
COMPRESSED EARTH BLOCKS ALL ESSENTIAL ENERGY
LOADS MET designed with great
FOR ALL INTERNAL MASONRY consideration to aesthetics
SOLAR WATER HEATERS with slender steel tubes to
USE OF GLASS BLOCKS FOR carry photovoltaic panels
MORE LIGHT INTO THE OFFICE DIFFERENT VIEWS OF
EMPHASIS ON NATURAL above. PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS
SPACES LIGHT AND VENTILATION
WATER MANAGEMENT:
USE OF TRADITIONAL JALI
COLLECTION
Zero run off at site.
Roof Water Harvesting
40,000 litres.
Ground Water Recharge
CONSERVATION
Use of less water urinals
Low water consuming .
PASSIVE DESIGN FEATURES
WASTE WATER RECYCLING
Utilized for flushing &
All external glazing shaded from outside to irrigation
minimise the HEAT GAIN
NO LOAD TO THE MUNCIPAL SEWAGE
Stack ventilation in Phase 1 and TREATMENT PLANT
Displacement Ventilation in Phase 2 with
ROOF
the help of Radiant Cooling minimizes RADIANT COOLING SLAB PLACED RADIANT COOLING PHASE 2
FINISH FLOORING CLOSE TO THE BOTTOM SURFACE
energy use.
Ceiling fans provide low energy cooling 200 MM THICK SLAB TO INCORPORATE
RADIANT COOLING PIPES
COOLTH
COOLTH
Thermal mass of concrete slabs absorbs the coldness and keeps the
surface in contact and in turn the air in contact cool.
STONE CLADDING PATTERN – TO Displacement ventilation takes place and reduces the air change rate
MINIMISE STONE WASTAGE & PACKING required for hygienic reasons.
WODD
INSTALLATION OF RADIANT COOLING PIPES
14
PROFESSIONAL WORKS

17. EXPOSED TO CONCEPTS AND PRINCIPLES OF OTHER PROJECTS UNDER AHSOK B. LALL
OTHER PROJECTS
SUSTAINABLE RESIDENTIAL COLONY | BELLARY DEVELOPMENT ALTERNATIVES, WORLD HEADQUARTERS| NEW DELHI
Collecting ‘Coolth’ in
mass of the slab
PREDOMINANT WIND DIR. COOLTH RADIATES FROM
TUBES INTO HABITABLE AREAS
WET PADS
And also in Walls.
Ferro Cement Channels
THE STRUCTURE
Typical Construction of residential buildings showing
water filled cavity walls/ cooling tubes along with the
living spaces.
Large mass internal fabric insulated from outside
The figure shows the precast hollow blocks
flooring system interacts with conditioned air flow to act as thermal fly
wheel and store
15
PROFESSIONAL WORKS

18. EVALUATING & IMPROVING THERMAL, SOLAR AND DAYLIGHTING PERFORMANCE
BUILDING FABRIC
Comfort band according to ISHRAE: 20°C to 25°C
OFFICE BUILDING | AHMEDABAD, INDIA Moderate Overheating problem Main Fabric - Reflective Glass with U-value 6 W/sq. m.K
AIM : Evaluating and Improving the thermal, solar and daylighting performance Windows - Single glazed with U-value 5.1 W/sq. m.K
of an office building in Ahmedabad, India. Occupants & Schedule – 15 according to 9 per square
Most overheated zone meter area for open offices. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. typical
office hours.
Sensible Gains – 15 computers, 25 ceiling light fixtures,
Less Overheating problem 2 A4 printers’ and 1 Projector = 23.2 W/m2
AHMEDABAD The 2nd, 3rd and 4th floors were found to be most critical ones & simulation was done on the 4th floor
INDIA THE BASE CASE SCENARIO The following results were obtained and it was analysed.
Wh/ m2
GAINS BREAKDOWN - 4th Floor 1st March - 30th June %
9.8% 9.8% Fabric
2240
9.4%
9%
1680
26.1%
Sol-Air
1120
560
52.5%
Solar
0
26% Ventilation
VIEW OF THE OFFICE BUILDING IN AHMEDABAD 560 51% Internal
1120 86.0%
Overall Gains/ Losses
The building is an air conditioned building with split air conditioning units serving as the 1680
Inter-zonal
cooling units. Its area is around 120 square metres. The use of glass as a material is 2240
2800
14.0%
probably inappropriate as for this kind of climate where the heat gains are on the higher Mar
7th 14th 21st 28th
Apr
7th 14th 21st 28th
May
7th 14th 21st 28th
Jun
7th 14th 21st 28th
Conduction Sol-Air Direct Solar
GAINS GRAPH (Generated from Ecotect)
Ventilation Internal Inter-Zonal
GAINS PIE CHART – BASE CASE
side almost throughout the year. However, the main factor would be to identify the exact
problem related to the building. Once the problem is clear, the task would be to tackle it The preliminary analysis shows that most of the gains occur through fabric and solar gains is the 2nd highest
individually and then try to bring all the parameters together. contributor. These two contribute to the cooling loads significantly. Hence, first priority would be to change
the fabric and then to work on the solar gains by designing some shading devices. After combining these the
INSOLATION ANALYSIS To pick one critical floor of the building for simulation overall changes in the gains and the cooling loads will be analysed and compared with the base case.
STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3 STEP 4
•Changed the material •Still significant gains •Positive signs. Adding •Changing the
to brick plaster U- through conduction. an insulation might windows from single
value 2.62 W/sq. Insulation probably still bring down the glazed to double
m.K from reflected needed. Stone cooling loads. Try glazed will also help
glass cladding on brick wall adding an extra layer the cause.
U-value 1.860 W/sq. of insulation U value
WEST FACADE m.K 0.58 W/sq. m.K
NORTH FACADE
THERMAL PERFORMANCE CONCLUSION 9% Fabric
9.8%
4% Sol-Air
In this aspect, there has been a reduction of almost 40% gains
Solar
through the fabric. There has also been a significant decrease in
Ventilation
the cooling loads because of this .
48% Internal
The peak cooling load has come down to 11 KW from 26 KW Inter-zonal
during the hottest day of the month.
EAST FACADE SOUTH FACADE GAINS PIE CHART – AFTER CHANGES
16
CARDIFF UNIVERSITY (PG)
OTHER INTERESTS

19. EVALUATING & IMPROVING THERMAL, SOLAR AND DAYLIGHTING PERFORMANCE
BUILDING FABRIC
SOLAR PERFORMANCE DAYLIGHT PERFORMANCE
The requirement for daylight in an
After reducing the conduction through the fabric, the next step would be office space according to Indian
to minimise the direct solar gains through the windows as the fabric is Standards is between 300 to 500 lux.
taken care of in the above steps. The aim is to provide different options This was tested for the most sunny day
and minimise the solar gains which is 7%. All the different facades would and the most cloudy day and the
have to be treated differently since the azimuth and the altitude of the results were not satisfactory as shown
sun keeps changing throughout the day. Based on the sun path diagram in the figures below. Simulations were
and insolation analysis, it is clear that most of the shading is required in performed using RADIANCE. SUNNIEST DAY – 15TH MAY CLOUDIEST DAY – 14TH AUG
the south. However, in the West façade, between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00
p.m., there is direct solar radiation as shown in the figure below. Hence, A thin band of 250 mm height is provided which is covered with Glass Blocks/Bricks which has
all the three facades have to have different solutions. a property of transmitting light without the solar gains. Using the projection on top of the
SUNPATH - ECOTECT
window as a reflector, it may be possible to achieve daylight far into the room as shown. The
results in both the cases are as follows.
OPTION 1
DIFFERENT SHADING SCREENS FOR EAST, WEST AND SOUTH FAÇADE AS SHOWN IN ABOVE FIGURES SUNNIEST DAY – 15TH MAY CLOUDIEST DAY – 14TH AUG
9% 9.8% GAINS – BASE CASE AND FINAL PROPOSAL CONCLUSION
Option 2
LOADS – BASE CASE AND FINAL PROPOSAL
Option 1 2000
26% 51%
Base Case 0
OPTION 2
0 2 4 6 8 -2000
7%
KW
Solar Gains (%) 9.8% -4000
LOUVERES FOR ALL FACADES EXCEPT NORTH
4%
W
MONTHLY HEATING/ COOLING LOADS - 4th Floor AHMEDABAD, IND
-6000
7200000
Option 1 had different shading devices on all
47% -8000
COMPARISON OF LOADS FROM
5400000
3600000
facades except North while Option 2 had
BASE CASE AND OPTION 2
1800000
0
similar shading screens. The result shows that -10000
1800000
Option 2 performs better than the Option 1 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Fabric Sol-Air
3600000
in terms of solar gain.
5400000
Solar Ventilation
7200000
9000000
H - Before C - Before H - After C- After
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
W
MONTHLY HEATING/ COOLING LOADS - 4th Floor AHMEDABAD, IND
Internal Inter-zonal
7200000
However, there is hardly any difference in the
5400000
cooling loads as seen in the adjacent graphs.
3600000
1800000
The thermal performance has improved along with the reduction in direct solar gains; however
0
the daylighting aspect needs more re-thinking in a different way in order to achieve the
1800000
The next section addresses the daylighting
3600000
balance between all the three aspects, as in the current proposal daylighting levels are not up
5400000
aspect of this case.
7200000
to the standards.
9000000
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Heating Cooling
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20. RESEARCH & DESIGN PROJECT
SHADING DEVICES AND INTEGRATION OF PHOTOVOLTAICS | NEW DELHI, INDIA
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN APPLICATION
AIM : The aim is to find the optimum shading device for the overheated spaces in the UNIT 3 UNIT 4
UNIT 1 LAYOUT
residential apartments, which would reduce the cooling loads. It will then be integrated with Main Entrance
Photovoltaics to generate electricity. BEDROOM 3
Living + Dining
KITCHEN Bedroom 1
GHAZIABAD
Bedroom 2
NEW DELHI NEW DELHI Balconies
UNIT 2 UNIT 1
GURGAON
INDIA FARIDABAD
DWARKA SUB-URBS/ SATELLITE TOWNS NOIDA
With the rise in population during the last decade, the government
decided to decentralise Delhi by giving a go ahead to residential
apartments in all of these satellite/sub urban areas. These 10 storeyed
buildings had a typical plan with 4 units around the central service core.
BEDROOM 3 - SOLAR STRESS & SOLAR STRESS SOLAR STRESS
THE PROBLEM: 30% IDENTIFYING CRITICAL ZONES
The residential sector is responsible for the maximum consumption 19% The fact that Air conditioning was one of the major contributors to electricity
of electricity as shown in the pie chart. (Central Electricity Authority) 43% consumption was further strengthened by the analysis which showed the
These buildings have high solar gains which is responsible for the 2% solar stress on windows.
high electricity consumptions in residences. 6% The fact that Dwarka, one of the suburbs in Delhi alone had 425 housing
PER CAPITA consumption of electricity is around 1000 KWH PER Public Lighting Industrial societies which was spread across 22 sq. kms was a worrying sign as the
YEAR which is almost three times the national average. Commercial Residential govt. of Delhi found it difficult to cope with increasing demands of the city.
SUPPLY-DEMAND SCENARIO Cloud
High Temp + CLIMATE - ANALYSIS
Low Temp Solar Gains cover H. Tem. Low Temp
4% 1% Known Demands
5% Others From the graph it is
Projected Demands
50 100 clear that most of
9% Pumps Energy Produced 90 time the average
Television 40 80 temperature in New
Projected Energy
TEMPERATURE (C)
Refrigerator Production 70 Delhi is around 30 C.
28% 28% Lighting 30 60 Also the solar
Celing Fan 50 radiation is very high
during this period and
9% AC 20 40
15% mirrors the profile of
Coolers 30
the avg temperature.
10 20
The cloud cover is
10 only for two months
The Air conditioning market grew by 15% in 2009 and grew by 30% in 2010. The sales of Air 0 0 and there is potential
conditioning is also a worrying factor as it contributes the highest to the cooling requirements as
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Sep
Aug
Nov
Jun
Jul
Dec
Oct
for utilising the
shown in the pie chart. The graph also shows that there is a huge gap between the supply and irradiance as shown
demand which needs to be bridged as soon as possible. Avg Temp Cloud Cover Solar Radiation in the next section.
18
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21. RESEARCH & DESIGN PROJECT
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN APPLICATION
WHY INTEGRATE SHADING DEVICES AND PV As per government estimates, India receives OPTIONS FOR SHADING
5,000 trillion kWh per year, with Delhi
2500 kWh/m2
receiving 4-7 kWh per square metre per day. Six options were made out of which
(Delhi Transco Limited Report) the 3 best options are presented.
The power sector contributes nearly half of These options were selected after
the country's carbon emissions.(Delhi 1 running the following analysis:
Transco Limited Report) SOLAR STRESS
If combined with shading devices, it can be SHADOW MASK
beneficial for two things 1) LOWER INSOLATION ON THE WINDOW
ELECTRICITY DEMANDS 2) TO GENERATE
ELECTRICITY The type 3 is the most effective and
its effect can also be seen in the
2 cooling loads as shown in the chart
below.
Step 1 DETERMINE THE OVERHEATING PERIODS
By plotting the overheating periods on the sun 3000
path diagram, we can determine the cut off period.
The Vertical Shadow angle or the profile angle 2800
(VSA) is found out for the time and the months 2600
when shading is needed. It is observed that 3
February has the lowest profile angle and fixed 2400
shading device should be designed as per this. 2200
Base Type 1 Type 2 Type 3
Sun path diagram - Stereographic Case
North Facing Window
SHADE June
MONTHS VSA° Looking at the sun path diagram, it is visible that in the early and late hours of
REQ. February
June /May, there are chances of solar gains on the window facing north. The
FEB 2 to 4 PM 50
shadow mask of all the three months during the critical period will tell if the
MAR/SEP ALL DAY 62
ADMIT SUN SHADE REQUIRED IN ONE MONTH sun’s rays are coming from the North during the late morning and late
APR/AUG ALL DAY 79 SHADE REQUIRED ON BOTH DATES evenings.
MAY/JUL ALL DAY 83
JUNE ALL DAY 121 121° From the above sun path diagram, the Vertical
50° Shadow angle can be determined which is used
OCT ALL DAY 51
to design the shading device based on the times
NOV 12 to 4 PM 41 WINDOW SECTION when the shading is required.
Step 2 DESIGN SHADING DEVICES
21st OCTOBER 21st JUNE 21st MARCH SOLAR STRESS
This step involves the analysis of performance of various shading devices varying in depth and
distance based on the Vertical Shadow Angle.
The solar stress shows that there is
negligible amount of solar gain. The shading
South Facing Window device as shown in the figure was tested
If the shading device is designed for profile and it covered the overheating zone as
angle(VSA) of 50°, it will block the sun PROJECTION shown in the shading mask. When the loads
from February to October, including June, were compared, there was no reduction in
which is the hottest month. Simulations them. This proves there is no need of Vertical surfaces
have been made for June 2nd shading on the Northern side. OPTION SHADOW MASK
ORIGINAL SCENARIO SOLAR STRESS
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22. RESEARCH & DESIGN PROJECT
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN APPLICATION
West Facing Window Step 3
Slanted vertical fins are more effective at shading than fins
perpendicular to an east or west-facing window. The figure HOW TO CALCULATE ELECTRICITY FROM PV ?
on the right from Solar Control and Shading Devices by
Olgyay and Olgyay shows the strategy for East-West facing 1)Find our the type of PV to be integrated into shading devices.
windows. 2) Calculate area and find out the orientation of the photovoltaic i.e. surface.
WINDOW : PLAN 3)Find out the monthly figures showing the average KWh per square meter per day for energy at
specific location.
SHADE AZIMUTH WINDOW PLAN
By using azimuth west from the south for MONTHS 4)This irradiance figure is to be multiplied by the area will give the average irradiance per day for
REQ. ANGLES °
afternoon shade and east from south for that particular location.
FEB 12 to 2 PM 40 5) Find out the efficiency and calculate the total solar power which is converted to electricity.
morning shade, the combination of fin
spacing, fin length and the fin slant angle can MAR/SEP ALL DAY 76
8
be determined as shown in figure. The APR/AUG ALL DAY 100 June
azimuth angles are found out from the south MAY/JUL ALL DAY 114 THIN FILM will be integrated into the 6
and noted in the table . shading devices due to its advantages over
JUNE ALL DAY 121
kWh/m2/day
Crystalline film. The efficiency of a thin film 4
ALL DAY 42 Jan
OCT is around 8% and the total electricity
65°
If the shading device is designed for 121° NOV 12 to 4 PM 55 Dec calculated as per the above method is 2
azimuth measured from south towards the west, around 220 KWh per floor.
it will also block the sun in the evenings during SHADOW MASK SOLAR STRESS 0
the months of January, February, November and
Apr
Aug
Feb
Mar
May
Sep
Jan
Jun
Jul
Nov
Dec
Oct
2000
December. Thus, the shading device will have to
be FLEXIBLE during these months. 1000 South East
KWh
West Horizontal
0 The graph above shows the solar irradiance in
OPTIONS FOR SHADING SCREENS Delhi's Avg National Electricity New Delhi collected on different surfaces. These
Avg Generated figures are used as per the orientation of the
TYPES AVG. INSOLATION – ON GLAZED SURFACES
shading screens to calculate elec. generated.
CONCLUSION TABLE
SOUTH EAST WEST
1 2600
SUGGESTED 3000 3800
SHADING DEVICE
141 KWh & 2500 2400 3000
REDUCTION IN 2200
2000 2200
COOLING LOADS PLAN
SECTION PLAN
2 The elec. Generated is around Elec. Generated
ELECTRICITY
GENERATED BY 220 KWh per floor but this Delhi's Avg.…
PV result is for the topmost floor.
134 KWh 0 500 1000 1500
Five options were made out of which the 2 DAYLIGHTING should also be analysed as the shading devices does affect the
best options are presented. It was already quality of light. Also, the OVERSHADOWING of buildings has to be studied
June FURTHER STUDY/
established that there needs to be a flexible LIMITATIONS
before calculating the exact amount of electricity generated. Also, the effect of
system to allow the winter sun, the working of WIND passing through shading devices should be considered during winter
the device is shown in the adjacent figure. months if it aids thermal comfort.
Jan/Dec/Feb Jan/Dec/Feb
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23. WORKSHOPS/ ELECTIVES
SKETCHES
MODEL MAKING
4 X 4 – GLASS HOUSE
TADAO ANDO
PHOTOGRAPHY
WOODEN WORKSHOP DINING CHAIR & DUST BIN LEATHER & TENSILE WORKSHOP
21