The DSS journey was sparked by a simple yet profound question:
How can we harness the beauty and benefits of daylight while minimizing its challenges?
This question led to the creation of DSS, a collaborative community, focused on balancing light for greater comfort, sustainability, and innovation in building design.
In this second article of the series, we delve deeper into overheating—what causes it, why it matters, and how holistic solutions can future-proof commercial buildings for long-term success.
2003 saw record breaking temperatures in France as extreme heat caused emergencies at hospitals and the closure of hundreds of schools. Regarded as unprecedented at the time, the country was hit again in subsequent years. A special project has now been launched to mitigate overheating in school buildings. Alexis Damia, Public Affairs Manager for Somfy, delves into this retrofit programme that futureproofs buildings and protects children and teachers from overheating during the next heatwave.
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Germany’s housing sector is facing mounting pressure to deliver climate-resilient homes at a time when rising construction costs and economic challenges are adding to a deepening affordability crisis. The German Representative Office of the Transparent Building Envelope (Repräsentanz Transparente Gebäudehülle/RTG) has commissioned a study on this topic, conducted by specialist construction engineering firm and consultant to the German government Ingenieurbüro Hauser (IBH). Key findings: Both new and existing buildings in Germany are dangerously under prepared for the intensifying heat stress that lies ahead. Thomas Drinkuth, Head of the industry representation RTG, explores the key findings and the practical solutions that could help mitigate the impact.
PRISM transforms real-world data into actionable insights, bridging the gap between design and performance.
A data-driven solution that evaluates energy, carbon, and wellbeing metrics, turning abstract benefits into measurable insights. PRISM isn’t just a tool; it’s a mission to empower the industry to create environments that work better for people and the planet.
