Systemic Design for Decarbonizing Buildings and Cities

The lecture aims to explore the systemic design of buildings and cities to achieve low carbon emissions, high energy performance and liveability. In order to address the complex challenges, a systemic perspective is required, which integrates critical aspects such as energy demand and supply, human comfort, and their implications on architectural and urban design. This approach recognizes the interdependency of design on different scales ranging from the material and component level to the building and city level. Case studies from Zurich and Switzerland are used to illustrate the application of methods and the practical implementation of systemic design principles in living labs. One such example is the HiLo unit at NEST that exemplifies the integration of lightweight structures and innovative energy systems. By emphasizing the importance of systemic design, the lecture aims to inspire architects, urban planners, and policymakers to adopt holistic approaches and analytical methods for tackling the grand challenges the built environment faces.