Comparative of Two Building Envelopes for Energy Efficiency and Environmental Sustainability

This study investigates two distinct building shells (envelope) types in a resort located in Matheran, a hill station renowned for its environmental significance, for their thermal performance. Given that no new construction is allowed in Matheran, enhancing energy performance in older structures is critically important, to reduce environmental impact while maintaining sustainability. Buildings are predominantly skin dominated, with the building shell contributing significantly to heat gain and loss, which can account for up to 73% of the total thermal load. This study primarily aims to conduct a comparison between two distinct building envelopes: a modern RCC- framed clay brick structure and a traditional load-bearing Laterite stone construction structure. Both envelopes are analyzed for their thermal performance and energy efficiency using simulation models in ECOTECT and eQUEST software. The results reveal that the traditional Laterite stone envelope outperforms the RCC-framed clay brick structure in terms of thermal performance, offering better insulation and lower heat gain, thus resulting in improved energy efficiency. To improve the modern RCC envelope's energy efficiency, modifications were proposed in the areas of roof, wall, and fenestration properties. Simulations of these modifications demonstrated a significant improvement in thermal performance, with a reduction in cooling loads by 15% and overall energy consumption by 10%. The study highlights the research gap in the thermal performance analysis of building envelopes in Matheran, a region that requires sustainable solutions due to its eco-sensitive status. By providing quantifiable results, this paper contributes valuable insights for the design and renovation of energy-efficient resort envelopes in such regions. The findings underscore the importance of retrofitting existing structures for sustainability and the reduction of fossil fuel dependency, offering a viable path for green development in protected areas like Matheran. The study’s impact extends to both the architectural community and policymakers, advocating for environmentally conscious development in sensitive tourist locations.