Intelligent design strategies for university buildings: Implementing green architectural innovations
Intelligent design strategies for university buildings: Implementing green architectural innovations

Author(s): Marwah Al-Helli
Subject(s): Architecture
Published by: INCD URBAN-INCERC
Keywords: green buildings; systems thinking; university buildings
Summary/Abstract: This study explores the application of systems thinking in green architecture across two leading universities in arid climates: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and the American University in Cairo (AUC). Employing a comparative case study methodology, this research delves into the integration of sustainability strategies at multiple levels: individual components, building systems, and broader community and ecosystem interactions. Both universities exhibit robust approaches to material selection, employing advanced, reflective, and locally sourced materials to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Innovations in building design demonstrate significant energy savings through strategic use of natural lighting and state-of-the-art HVAC systems, tailored to the unique desert conditions of each location. Water management and waste reduction strategies reflect a deep commitment to sustainability, featuring advanced recycling systems and designs that support easy material recovery and reuse. The comparative analysis highlights how each university’s adoption of local practices and technologies not only minimizes their environmental footprint but also embeds sustainability into the educational culture, influencing faculty and student practices. This research underscores the potential for scalable and adaptable green architecture strategies in similar environmental conditions, offering valuable insights for global applications in sustainable campus design.

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