FXFOWLE’s KAFD buildings are some of the first LEED certified projects in Saudi Arabia and the first built projects in the King Abdullah Financial District development. KAFD parcels 4.07, 4.08 and 2.09 were filed under LEED v2.2 which refers to ASHRAE 90.1-2004 Standard. EA Credit 1: “Optimize Energy Performance”. The compliance option adopted requires baseline energy model to be compared against a proposed energy model. To meet LEED qualification for New Buildings, a 14% energy cost savings is required from the proposed energy model.
Background
Parcels 4.07 and 4.08 are two towers connected by a bridging retail podium across a shared landscaped plaza that overlooks the Wadi. Environmental modeling software was used to develop the building forms in response to sun and shadow patterns, permitting natural lighting and views while mitigating solar gain. Integrated into the façade are energy-reducing sun shades.
Set within the King Abdullah Financial District is Parcel 4.05. This 209-room hotel designed by Gensler aims to provide a five-star hospitality experience for guests thru high-class amenities and youthful vibe.
Solution
nCLO3URE’s Jules Jim Obcena was Chief Engineer of Permasteelisa -Gartner Middle East, Dubai Office, who spearheaded the structural, thermal engineering, and performance compliance efforts for all the façade systems.
Parcel 4.07/4.08
Major tower enclosure systems vertical and sloped unitized curtain wall panels have externally attached 500mm wide extrusion fins that are hook-on into the mullion gaps. Sloped panels at maximum 6m long are inclined from 15 to 30 degrees from the vertical. To meet LEED qualifications of 14% energy cost savings, the external facades are required to meet an overall U-value of 1.1 W/m2K. Innovative solutions to improve the thermal performance of the façade were employed which include changes to the insulation thickness and material, increased thermal break widths and gasket cavities, use of hybrid warm-edge spacers, and revised detailing of the spandrel backpan.
Parcel 2.09
To meet LEED qualifications of 14% energy cost savings, all fixed and operable punch windows, sliding doors, stick curtain wall systems & honeycomb panels are required to meet an overall U-value of 1.1 W/m2K.
Parcel 4.05
Major enclosure systems include 20,000m2 of unitized curtain wall with horizontal ACP features, stick curtain wall, point-fix limestone cladding, ACP cladding, external balustrades, AESS podium façade and steel canopy at entrance.
