Harnessing the Power of One Click LCA & IES VE for Commercial Building Sustainability in India
The quest for sustainable commercial architecture in India has taken an exciting turn with the fusion of One Click LCA and IES VE tools. Leveraging the strengths of both, Indian architects and designers are now primed to create commercial spaces that are not just aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible. This case study sheds light on the integration process of these tools for a landmark commercial building in New Delhi.
Crafting the IES VE Blueprint
The first step involved creating a comprehensive model of the commercial building within IES VE. Detailed attention was given to elements like facades, internal partitions, glazing, and the innovative rooftop garden. Accuracy was paramount, considering the unique architectural nuances of Indian commercial buildings.
Data Transition from IES VE
Upon finalizing the blueprint, a data file suitable for One Click LCA – preferably in CSV or XML format – was generated using IES VE’s export feature. This file encompassed details of regional building materials, their quantities, and distinct specifications relevant to the Indian context.
Ingressing Data into One Click LCA
Launching One Click LCA, the “Import” feature was utilized to ingest the file obtained from IES VE. The software effortlessly processed the intricate data, aligning it with fields pertinent for LCA.
Authenticating Transferred Data
Before diving into the LCA, it was pivotal to cross-verify the imported data. Minor variations often stem from modeling nuances, especially when adapting global tools for local contexts. A representative table illustrating this is as follows:
Comparative Analysis of Automated Building Element Areas from IES VE to One Click LCA and Real-world Measurements.
| Building element | Automated value | Actual Area (m2) | Difference (%) | Reason for % difference | Adjust in One Click LCA? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| External Facade | 450 | 444 | +1.3% | Minor variations while modeling intricate jali work in IES VE. | No |
| Green Rooftop | 140 | 142 | −1.4% | No | |
| Atrium | 60 | 60 | 0% | No | |
| Partition Walls | 205 | 205 | 0% | No | |
| Elevated Plazas | 210 | 275 | −23.6% | Discrepancy noted with IES VE; One Click LCA’s team consulted for resolution. | Yes |
| Glazed Sections | 105 | 108 | −2.7% | Minute discrepancies while modeling large fenestrations in IES VE. | No |
| Ground Level Arcade | 180 | 180 | 0% | No |
Refining Data within One Click LCA
In instances where stark discrepancies were observed, like with the elevated plazas, rectifications were executed directly within One Click LCA. This ensured that the impending LCA was grounded in authenticity.
Embarking on the LCA Analysis
With data validated, the LCA was initiated. The holistic assessment divulged insights into the embodied carbon, water efficiency, and other environmental impacts of the commercial building, giving stakeholders actionable pointers for refinement.
Conclusion
The amalgamation of One Click LCA and IES VE is revolutionizing sustainable commercial architecture in India. By merging global best practices with indigenous architectural richness, India’s commercial hubs can emerge as beacons of sustainability. This case study underscores the transformative potential of such integrations, beckoning a greener architectural future for the subcontinen