Energy and Climatic Performances of Modern Architecture: A Complete Overview of Building Physics Implications

Abstract

The architecture of the 20th century stands as an imperative realm of experimentation. Inside it, the architecture of the Modern Movement emerged from 1900 to 1940, with shapes, features, and materials completely different from pre-industrial buildings, rejecting traditional construction practices, techniques, and materials. Its key design concepts include (i) the “Form Follows Function” principle establishing a strict relationship between building aesthetics and function, favoring minimalism, balanced composition, and visible materials; (ii) the creation of comfortable and healthy buildings with natural light and ventilation through windows, biophilia, and spacious rooms; and (iii) advancements in engineering enabling novel design possibilities (e.g., metal-framed curtain walls, complex windows) and mass-produced materials (e.g., glass, steel, reinforced concrete, plywood, Masonite, and cast iron). These criteria directly influence energy efficiency and human comfort. Otherwise, technical problems have emerged due to inadequate comprehension of the long-time performance of these experimentations, leading to deterioration and aging. This research provides a complete overview of the energy and climatic performances of Modern Architecture, discussing the building physics implications of the key design principles through several case studies.

Keywords

• energy performance
• energy audit
• energy simulation
• energy retrofit
• Modern Architecture
• building materials