Development and Validation of an Evaluation Model for Smart Materials in Atrium Design: Advancing Environmental Sustainability in Public Buildings

This study examines the integration of smart materials in atrium design for public buildings to enhance environmental sustainability. Atriums play a crucial role in creating sustainable architectural spaces while fostering social interaction. The primary objective is to develop an evaluation model that quantifies the impact of smart materials on sustainability performance. A mixed-method approach combining case study analysis and modeling techniques is employed to assess key sustainability factors, including energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and resource utilization. Three internationally certified sustainable projects were selected to apply the proposed model. The evaluation results show an average sustainability score of 77.8%, demonstrating the significant contribution of smart materials to sustainable atrium design. Key findings include a 96% efficiency in natural ventilation and site sustainability, an 82% improvement in energy and material efficiency, and a 58% enhancement in natural lighting and acoustic comfort. These results validate the applicability of the evaluation model in both new and existing public buildings, offering a framework for advancing sustainable design practices. Despite these benefits, the widespread adoption of smart materials faces challenges, including high initial costs and integration complexities with conventional systems such as HVAC. Additionally, a lack of long-term data on their durability and performance under varying environmental conditions limits their broader implementation. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to evaluate the real-world effectiveness of smart materials over time. Further investigations are needed to optimize their design and application in different climates and building types. Specifically, assessing their functionality across diverse geographical regions with varying temperature and humidity levels will enhance their adaptability and efficiency. Addressing these challenges will facilitate the broader adoption of smart materials, promoting more sustainable public building designs.