On building performance simulation for conceptual design support

State of the art building performance simulation (BPS) tools are currently merely used for code compliance checks during the detailed design stage. A software review and 15 interviews with international design practitioners revealed that currently available tools lack capabilities to support practitioners during the conceptual building design stage. [Hopfe et al, 2005] It is hypothesized that by using building performance simulation earlier in the design process designers will be better equipped to make objective design decisions resulting in better performing buildings. The paper gives a summary of the research efforts undertaken within the first 1.5 years of the 4 years lasting research project and an outlook dedicated to research efforts planned for the future.