Monk Spaces undertook passive design optimisation for the JSW Hospital proposed in Angul, Odisha, in collaboration with Space Matters. The goal of the project was to achieve high performance and sustainability. The project emphasised passive design optimisation to maximise sustainability, reduce energy consumption, and enhance comfort. The feasibility of getting the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Green Hospital certification was also evaluated.

The project commenced with a detailed climate analysis for the hospital. The aim was to understand local conditions and thoroughly inform subsequent design strategies. This analysis laid the groundwork for several critical tasks, including simulations using Ladybug and Honeybee tools. Thereby, two massing options developed by Space Matters were evaluated. These simulations were crucial in assessing hourly indoor temperatures and heat gain on each facade. They provided essential data necessary to guide design decisions effectively. Subsequently, further analyses concentrated on developing shading options, recommending window-to-wall ratios (WWR), and insulation strategies.

The recommendations involved mandatory horizontal and vertical shading. They aimed to reduce solar heat gain and enhance indoor comfort on the southern and western facades. Additionally, proper insulation was advised to maintain thermal comfort and reduce energy consumption. Double-glazed units were suggested to improve both thermal and acoustic insulation. The optimal WWR was recommended to balance natural lighting with thermal performance.

The design interventions were critical to achieving a high-performance, sustainable hospital facility that adhered to rigorous environmental standards. After implementing the interventions, an evaluation was conducted to assess the project’s feasibility for IGBC rating. In conclusion, the project ensured informed, sustainable design decisions, maximising hospital comfort and efficiency. The project emphasised passive design optimisation by prioritising high performance and sustainability. The thorough climate analysis and implementation of crucial design interventions could significantly enhance contemporary sustainability benchmarks. The IGBC certification possibilities were explored as a bonus study in the project. Thus, the project showcases the importance of passive design optimisation in the building sector.