Building Sustainability and Occupant Well-being: Data-Driven Design Optimization

In an era where the quest for sustainability intersects with the imperative of human well-being, the building sector stands at a critical juncture [1,2]. The project titled "Building Sustainability and Occupant Well-being: Data-Driven Design Optimization " embarks on an ambitious journey to unravel and synergize these two pivotal aspects of modern built environments. At its core, this project aims to explore the intricate relationship between human well-being and sustainability in built environments, leveraging the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and big data analytics [3].

The built environment has a profound impact on both the ecological footprint and the quality of life of its occupants [1,2]. Traditional approaches often prioritize one over the other, leading to solutions that might be sustainable but not conducive to well-being, or vice versa [4]. This project challenges this dichotomy by aiming to optimize building designs that harmonize both aspects.

The focus of this research lies in the nuanced interplay between building design, particularly the building envelope, and its dual impact on sustainability and occupant well-being. The project seeks to dissect how architectural elements like window design, material choice, and insulation not only affect a building's environmental performance but also influence the health and comfort of those inside. This exploration is critical in addressing the research gap where building design often overlooks the simultaneous consideration of ecological efficiency and human-centric needs.

The student will embark on a comprehensive journey, beginning with the investigation of the relationship between human well-being and sustainability in the built environment. This exploration will extend to data mining for human behaviour and building performance records, delving deeply into their interconnections and impacts. A significant portion of the research will be dedicated to utilizing AI techniques to analyze and model the interplay between these factors, with a particular focus on how building designs can influence both sustainability and occupant well-being.

To ensure the robustness and applicability of these models, the student will engage in real-world applications of AI-driven design strategies. This hands-on experience will be complemented by fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, merging insights from architecture, psychology, engineering, and data science. The culmination of this endeavour will be the optimization of design solutions that enhance both well-being and sustainability.

The student will then evaluate the effectiveness of these AI-driven strategies in real-world scenarios, assessing their practicality and impact. Throughout this academic journey, the student will spend time at various research facilities and engage with experts from multiple disciplines, gaining a holistic view of the challenges and opportunities in integrating well-being and sustainability in building design.

This project not only aims to contribute significantly to academic research but also seeks to influence practical applications in the building industry. By bridging the gap between sustainability and well-being, it aspires to set a new standard for future building designs, where the health of the planet and its inhabitants are in harmonious balance.