Human Factors Of High Performance Multifamily Housing

Buildings are complex systems, yet architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals often perform their work without considering the human factors that affect the operational performance of the building system. The AEC industry currently employ a linear design and delivery approach, lacking verified performance standards and real-time data feedback once a certificate of occupancy is issued. We rely on static monthly utility bills that lag and mask occupant behavior. We rely on lawsuits and anecdotal business development trends as our feedback mechanisms for the evaluation of a complex, system-based product. The omission of human factors in the design and delivery of high performance building systems creates risk for the AEC industry and has contributed to projects missing their performance targets. Neglecting an iterative, human-centered design and delivery approach inhibits our ability to close the industg's performance gap and relinquish its position as the top energy consuming sector. To close this gap, a multi-methods research design is employed to answer applied research questions that will serve as a vehicle to identify and jointly optimize human-building relationships. Specifically, this study reports findings from a multi-year study of the construction, and operations of 15 high performance multifamily housing projects in Virginia. Data include 1) originally simulated versus measured energy use data, 2) construction technologies and delivery methods, 3) commissioning procedures, and 4) occupant reported factors including thermostat set points, thermal comfort, appliance use, and user satisfaction with high performance housing. Preliminary findings suggest the use of Human Factors methods can improve our understanding of the construction, operations, and maintenance outcomes of high performance multifamily housing. Results from this work can be shared with AEC professionals to close thepost-occupang performance gap in high performance systems.