This guide summarizes the work of Subtask B of IEA-ECBCS Annex 44 “Integrating Environmentally Responsive Elements in Buildings” and is based on the contributions from the participating countries.

The publication is an official Annex report. With a focus on innovative building concepts that dynamically respond to changes in climate and user demands, the report describes building concepts, design methods and tools that have been tested in theory and practice in buildings around the world.

This guide is aimed at designers and consultants and describes the principles of responsive building concepts, their benefits and limitations, economical feasibility and impact on energy savings, company image, comfort, productivity, building functionality and flexibility and gives guidance on design of these concepts, including integration of responsive building elements and HVAC-systems and build examples, and for rough evaluation of building
performance.

It is hoped, that this guide will be helpful in the search for new solutions in the built environment and to the problem of designing and constructing sustainable buildings.