Environment II: Design Integration of Active Building Systems

This course addresses the urgent need for sustainable building design in an era of climate change. Students explore the integration of passive design strategies with active systems — including HVAC, lighting and renewables — to create high-performance commercial buildings.

Guided by key U.S. standards (ASHRAE, ICC) and a global perspective, the course covers energy efficiency, healthy indoor environments, and critical performance metrics like Energy Use Intensity (EUI) and carbon emissions.

Students analyze how climate, policy, and resources shape design and develop the critical thinking skills needed to contribute to a resilient built environment. The course empowers students to play a key role in shaping a sustainable future that aligns with the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals.