Buildings for occupancy and environmental conditions

Architects are transforming design with Internet of Things (IoT) architecture. They can create buildings that respond to environmental and occupancy level changes. While this technology is still relatively new, it is gaining traction. Could it transform how people approach infrastructure?

What IoT in architecture can do

The IoT is a physical network of internet-connected devices. Standard sensors can track moisture, temperature, motion, brightness and smoke. Advanced models can monitor carbon dioxide levels, electric current and indoor air quality. They enable buildings to respond to environmental conditions, occupancy levels, energy usage patterns and weather events.

Despite enabling automatic, continuous adaptability, sensors are affordable. They cost just 4 cents¹ on average, regardless of type. Facility managers could deploy hundreds or even thousands for next to nothing. The larger their network, the more granular their insights.

While these devices get the most attention, other IoT technologies exist. For instance, a smart meter can generate real-time updates² on energy consumption, helping management identify opportunities for improvement. Unlike its traditional counterpart, it has two-way communication and can be accessed remotely.

Integrating IoT in architecture enables data visualization, predictive analytics and automatic analysis. It empowers facility managers to take control of operations. They can support all their decisions with data.

Designing responsive buildings

Designing structures that respond to their environment is surprisingly simple. Internet-connected devices can connect to a building management system. Alternatively, they can operate independently, sharing data at predetermined intervals. However, if facility managers connect them, they can automate building systems.

Say an architect links temperature and humidity sensors to an office’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. The continuous information feeds tell the unit how to respond. This way, it can anticipate shifts brought on by weather, lighting or occupancy changes. As a result, it will perform more efficiently.

Incorporating IoT into smart buildings makes them intelligent. Automated systems can react to data in real time. The better they perform, the less they impact the environment. Tailoring these changes to the occupancy level ensures tenants remain comfortable.

IoT contributes to a safer, healthier environment because it automates many aspects of building management. Automation technology will reduce 90% of greenhouse gas emissions³ by 2050. The more architects leverage these devices, the less urban environments impact local ecosystems. They are a stepping stone to a sustainable future.

Where has this been done before?

Smart building technology is catching on worldwide. Although it isn’t common yet, its popularity is increasing. There are numerous examples in some of the world’s most recognizable urban areas, drawing attention to the benefits of adoption.

Examples of IoT in architecture

Located in the center of Amsterdam’s Zuidas business district, The Edge is a 430,555 square foot structure. It has a 98.36% BREEAM-NL score⁴, making it one of the world’s most sustainable structures. Thanks to its 6,000 smart lights, deeply recessed windows and south-facing solar panels, it consumes 70% less electricity than a conventional office. Each LED is connected to infrared, daylight and motion sensors. They only activate as needed.

Motion sensors themselves aren’t cutting edge. What makes The Edge special is its implementation strategy. The movement-activated lights complement the natural lighting.

Nicknamed “Chicago’s Smartest Building,” 800 Fulton Market uses IoT, cloud computing and machine learning. These tools monitor everything from indoor air quality to occupancy level. As a result, its embodied carbon emissions are about 65% lower⁵ compared to the average office building. The facility management team receives real-time insights for further improvements.

This mixed-use, 19-story office building is a shining example of IoT in architecture. Despite being technologically advanced, it blends in with nearby infrastructure. Its unique design aligns with the district’s historic low-rise streetscape and high-density commercial district.

Who smart building technology benefits

IoT in architecture benefits building managers. Automation simplifies management. Also, data-driven insights streamline decision-making. They don’t have to worry as much about maintenance. System enhancements improve energy efficiency, lowering occupants’ utility bills. Tenants’ well-being may even improve since sensors help keep the environment healthy.

Real-estate owners, architects and construction workers can all benefit from implementing affordable, scalable IoT devices. These wireless, off-the-shelf solutions create a centralized data repository. Users can access these insights anywhere, anytime.

Even those in rural areas can take advantage. If the Wi-Fi signal is weak, professionals can use alternative networking protocols. For example, they could use a long-range, wide-area network to enable long-range device communication.

Ultimately, this technology informs space utilization, helping industry professionals design practical, beautiful buildings with minimal environmental impact. They can use IoT to redefine modern architecture. Whether they want to make spaces multifunctional or coexist with the surrounding ecosystem, they can.

Smart building technology’s potential Incorporating IoT into architecture is generally beneficial. However, these devices can only reach their full potential with strategic implementation. Professionals must decide on device type, volume and placement. They should also determine how to set up physical and network connections. These considerations can help them optimize their system.