This issue of Perkins and Will Research Journal includes three articles that focus on different research topics, such as the potential gaps in energy simulations, methods for integrating parametric design methods with building performance analysis procedures, and exploring well-being, productivity and engagement of employees in different working environments.

“Energy-Related Occupant Behavior Schedule: Rethinking the Occupant Schedule in Energy Simulations” highlights on one of the potential gaps in energy simulations, and how static occupancy schedules bring uncertainties to energy models and impact the accuracy of energy modeling outputs. By proposing multiple and flexible approaches to cope with occupancy schedules and energy modeling requirements at different design stages, this article discusses methodologies for more accurate energy modeling.

“Integration of Parametric Design Methods and Building Performance Simulations for High-Performance Buildings: Methods and Tools ” discusses methods for integrating parametric design with building performance analysis procedures, suitable for whole building design. An ideal framework was developed and tested using existing software applications, including Building Information Modeling (BIM), non-BIM, parametric design and building performance analysis applications.

“Spatial and Motivational Programming in Office Environments: Comparison of Co-Working to Other Types of Commercial Spaces” explores different working environments by applying two research methods to measure space use – motivational and spatial programming. Five different case studies were used to explore the commonality and differences of spatial design and goals from different industries. It was determined that all investigated types of commercial spaces benefit from a diverse layout.