JAUE2022-009: Improve Building Performance Based on POE Result: A Dormitory Case in Xi'an

Abstract

With the rapid growth of carbon emissions in China, building retrofit needs to be taken into deep consideration. To improve the building performance and energy efficiency, as well as meet users’ needs in the university student dormitories in Xi’an, this research investigated two case studies: a state-of-the-art UK retrofit project of a 1960’s block of apartments and a typical Xi’an student dormitory block in China. The Xi’an case is deeply surveyed and evaluated to learn the strengths and problems of the building and students’ satisfaction through the site, environment, and POE surveys. By comparing the problems of Xi’an and the UK case, a retrofit strategy framework is established in terms of what Xi’an could learn from the UK about improving the living condition of typical Xi’an university student accommodations. The framework recommends using a step-by-step retrofit process, improving the building thermal envelope, extending the utility space to meet minimum space standard, installing solar shading and localized MVHR units, adding personal control and more cupboards in individual bedrooms, and using solar energy to provide hot water in the student dormitories.