Title: Criteria for Design Resilience in University Buildings Guidelines for Parametric Eco-Retrofitting in (BWh) Climates
Authors: F. N. Mikhaelst, G. El Goharynd, and M. A. El Sayedrd
Volume: 9
Issue: 12
Pages: 87-98
Publication Date: 2025/12/28
Abstract:
This research presents a comprehensive, validated decision-support framework for the sustainable modernization and eco-retrofitting of existing university buildings in Egypt's hot-arid (BWh) climate. The study moves beyond theoretical discourse and offers an empirical framework for transforming legacy infrastructure. It addresses the critical intersection of rising energy costs, climate change, and the inefficiency of the national educational building stock. To address the necessity for net-zero energy transitions, the research adopts a rigorous mixed-methods approach. The Architecture Department at El Shorouk Academy in Cairo serves as a representative case study. The study diagnoses performance deficiencies and validates parametric intervention strategies. A "Virtual Physical Twin" energy model was created and calibrated using field monitoring, post-occupancy evaluation (POE), and dynamic building energy simulation (DBES) via DesignBuilder and EnergyPlus. The research systematically evaluates a range of retrofit measures, from low-cost passive interventions-such as shading and natural ventilation-to high-efficiency active systems, such as LEDs and VRF. Key findings identify internal loads as the most critical thermodynamic factor across educational typologies. Furthermore, the study finds an "insulation penalty," where improper envelope treatment in internally load-dominated structures exacerbates overheating. Results show that while basic efficiency measures, such as LED lighting and improved window films, provide moderate energy savings of 15-20%, significant reductions are achieved through envelope enhancements and solar photovoltaic integration. A comprehensive retrofitting strategy can reduce energy consumption by up to 86%, transforming thermally compromised structures into near Net-Zero energy assets. The research concludes with a Design Guideline Decision-Support Matrix. This matrix offers a validated roadmap for policymakers and campus managers to balance energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and capital costs to achieve long-term climate resilience.