a b s t r a c tA complete review on scale model testing for buildings, considering a wide range of methodologies and new manufacturing techniques, in areas such as statics and dynamics, acoustics, lighting, aerodynamics and thermodynamics for energy efficiency is presented. On the one hand, scale model testing for buildings require different considerations and techniques and are usually focused on one specific physical field contributing to the information scattering. On the other hand, they are sometimes too general, theoretical or unpractical. Although commercial computer simulations are first option among professionals, they necessarily simplify complex phenomena and ignore, among other aspects, size effects and latest findings in fractals. The potential of complementary experiments using new manufactured scale models for buildings is raising, however, it is still missing a practical overview through different physical fields specifically for buildings with these considerations. This review gives a wide perspective and unified scope on uses and possibilities of scale model testing for buildings, from the traditional configurations of Leon Battiste Alberti to new possibilities applying complex physics and new techniques of 3D-modelling.

Abstract. Free-form architecture is one of the major challenges for architects, engineers, and the building industry. This is due to the inherent difficulty of manufacturing double curvature facades at reasonable prices and quality. This paper discusses the possibilities of manufacturing free-form facade panels for architectural envelopes supported by recent advances in CAD/CAM systems and digital processes. These methods allow for no-mould processes, thus reducing the final price. Examples of actual constructions will be presented to prove the viability of computer numerically controlled (CNC) fabrication technologies. Scientific literature will be reviewed. Promising fabrication methods (additive, subtractive, forming) to accomplish this proposal will be discussed. This research will provide valuable information regarding the feasibility of manufacturing freeform panels for architectural envelopes at lower prices.

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The construction of Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) is one of the objectives in the road to the low-carbon economy by 2050. NZEB design includes a reduction of current energy demands and the balance between consumption and on-site energy generation without compromising indoor comfort conditions. Building designers are using building information modeling (BIM) and building energy simulation (BES) tools to validate design decisions and to evaluate energy balance in buildings. However, the flow of information between BIM software and BES tools has not been solved yet. This work proposes a method to address the decision-making process at three different stages of the building design. Initially, the use of BIM over the architectural design process helps architects to make meaningful decisions related to the passive solar heat gains and envelop materials. Secondly, a more advanced BES is used to analyze the strategies of ventilation and the influence of heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Finally, a new method to integrate water flow glazing (WFG) is implemented to increase the comfort in those areas of the building with a large area of glass. Applying the right strategy for natural ventilation can reduce the thermal loads by 45% in Summer. Using WFG minimizes the gap between indoor air temperature and operative temperature according to the results.

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