Toward NZEB Office Buildings

The European Directive 2010/31/EU affirms the need for actions in the building sector, which accounts for 40% of total energy consumption in the Union. In particular, one of the goals is the construction of nearly zero-energy buildings starting from the 31st December 2020 and bringing the date to the 31st December 2018 for the public constructions. Therefore it appears important focusing on administration buildings that will be the first building type to face with the European Directive because many constructions, owned and occupied by public authorities, enclose offices. Moreover, office blocks are complex for typological aspects and also their energy-needs are relevants. For these reasons, it is necessary a study in order to support a world of design which needs a multidisciplinary and holistic approach. This paper presents some results of a research in progress which investigates the design criteria for the construction of new office buildings located in Italy. In particular the research will analyse some passive design strategies, the integration between building and plant systems, different façade solutions, the use of innovative materials and the integration with renewable sources. The research has started from the analysis of some existing constructions located in Europe which they represent good examples of sustainable design aimed at reducing energy consumptions. The present paper will identify requirements for low-rise offices with a wide floor plan in relation to the spatial layout, the internal distribution, the technology and the envelope’s composition. This analysis will be realized following criteria partly consolidated for sustainable residential buildings and reaching an energy-efficient behaviour (optimization of daylighting, exploitation of winds, reduction of mechanical systems, etc.).