by Don Barker

Although computer-aided drafting software has indisputably changed the way architects and engineers draw, even more dramatic is the way high-end computer simulations have changed engineering design.

One firm that has taken advantage of new software systems is Genesys, a British consultancy specializing in sustainable-building simulation. The firm uses many forms of computer modeling, which is essential for low-energy, environmentally sensitive architectural design.

Genesys is part of the London engineering group Cundall Johnston and Partners. The parent firm recognized the growing need for an environmental approach to building design and created Genesys as a specialist design group to, as director Alan Fogarty says, "bridge the gap between the architect and the engineer."

They do this by providing answers about the complex interactions between architectural form and environmental elements such as solar penetration, shadow analysis, and temperature distribution.   >>>

Using Radiance, Genesys conducted an external shading analysis of the Vodafone Headquarters designed by architects Fletcher Priest. Image: Genesys Environmental A stereographic analysis using ECO 1 shows the path of the sun for Millharbour in London's Docklands by Michael Hopkins & Partners. Image: Genesys Environmental   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.