Energy design is an approach of integrating architecture with building performance to optimize efficiency and durability.

Our projects strive toward building envelope optimization: the design of high-performance exterior walls with efficient insulation, air sealing, and glazing to minimize heat gain and loss.

Specific energy design consulting services include:

Our energy design team uses software tools to simulate the energy consumption of a building or project, identifying opportunities for improvement. Supported by WUFI Passive and other technology, we evaluate options for assemblies and systems to reduce heating and cooling demand, minimize loads, and decreased site and source energy consumption. Hygrothermal analyses assess the risk of trapped moisture within the wall assembly.

Passive design strategies incorporate solar, natural ventilation, and daylighting to reduce the need for mechanical heating, cooling, and artificial lighting. The Passive House Institute U.S. (PHIUS) has defined cost-optimized and climate-specific carbon reduction standards that have been adopted by municipalities and institutions. West Work’s Certified Passive House Consultants (CPHC) are qualified to bring a project to PHIUS Certification, managing compliance with PHIUS requirements and facilitating communication among the design team, raters and verifiers, and PHIUS. Whether embedded in a West Work team or collaborating with other designers, our CPHCs provide guidance and interpretation throughout design and construction.

Services include:

• Feasibility Studies to assess the viability of certification
• Consulting for significant energy reduction towards Passive House targets
• Management of the full Passive House Certification process.

As it is recognized that most of our 2050 building stock has already been built, building owners seek to improve performance, comfort, and durability through deep energy retrofits. Systems are generally electrified, or a plan is put in place to move away from fossil fuel consumption. Generally, we strive toward a minimum of 50% energy savings, and increasingly we are gathering data on embodied carbon. We assist clients in identifying funding sources, incentives, and rebates including guiding them through Mass Save Passive House Incentives application.