Introduction
The aim of this study is to develop a methodology to achieve energy efficient homes by applying a developed method in a selected study case . To clarify the presented methodology this paper presents resumed diagrams where the methodology stages are explained on detail . Then , a Latin American social house project is described and considered as a demonstration model .
Background
Low Energy housing could be seen as a practical solution to tackle the environmental issues ( Williams 2012 ). Low Energy Homes are contemplated to be more expensive . In Latin America , most of the housing developers opt for mass production systems and even though they achieve low constructive prices , but the mid and long-term affordability is questioned . This study instead aims to develop a methodology that social housing designers could use to select design techniques and construction systems that help them to approach a more energy efficient home design and lower construction and maintenance costs . A methodology is a system used in a particular area of study or activity ( Oxford English Dictionary , 2013 ). So , methodologies comprise principles , guidelines , best practices and methods relating to a particular discipline such as interaction design or user research ( Gabriel-Petit , 2010 ). However , it is general agreed that design is a process rather than a method , while a process is holistic in nature and is devised with a specific goal in mind ( Pressman , 2012 ). Therefore , this study aims to create a methodology that supports the design process based on the Latin American climatic , cultural and economic context ; therefore , its applicability in other regions could be questioned .
Proposed methodology definition
This methodology should be used during the decision-making process , which is consider to be an explorative phase where a significant modifications can be done ( Xu , et al ., 2006 ). Not only energy aspects are considered to be enhanced with this methodology . The proposed methodology is divided in the following 5 consecutive stages : custom design approach , standardisation , energy efficiency upgrading , selecting the accurate choice and post-occupancy customisation , which respond to a specific objective . Each stage is characterised for a different interaction between users , designers and ESTs . The methodology procedure is summarised in the following diagram and each stage is further explained in following sections of this study ( Fig . 1 ).
448 ZEMCH 2015 | International Conference | Bari - Lecce , Italy