Building Simulation Modelling

Question: What is building simulation modelling?

Answer: Building simulation modelling uses computer software to predict how a building will perform before it is built. Models simulate energy use, internal temperatures, daylight, sunlight, airflow, moisture, lighting and microclimate, allowing designers to test options and optimise performance. Common tools include IES Virtual Environment, DesignBuilder, EnergyPlus, TAS, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software and specialist daylight and lighting packages.

Simulation is now an essential part of planning submissions, Building Regulations compliance, BREEAM assessment and low-carbon design.

Question: What types of building simulation are available?

Answer: Building simulation services typically include:

• Dynamic thermal modelling for energy, overheating (TM52, TM59, Part O) and comfort
• Daylight and sunlight modelling for planning and BREEAM
• Glint and glare assessment for solar PV and glazed façades
• Computational fluid dynamics for ventilation, wind and smoke
• Lighting design and lux plans
• Lighting impact and obtrusive light assessment
• Microclimate and pedestrian wind assessment
• Hygrothermal (moisture) modelling
• Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Question: Why is building simulation needed for planning?

Answer: Many planning submissions rely on simulation evidence, including Energy Strategy Reports, overheating assessments, daylight and sunlight assessments, glint and glare assessments, wind microclimate studies and lighting impact assessments. Local Planning Authorities expect these to be prepared using recognised methodologies and software so that results are robust and can be relied upon in determining the application.

Question: What is dynamic simulation modelling?

Answer: Dynamic simulation modelling (DSM) calculates building performance hour by hour over a full year using weather data, occupancy patterns, internal gains and system operation. It is required for Part L compliance of complex non-domestic buildings, for TM52 and TM59 overheating assessments and for accurate energy prediction. DSM software must be approved by the Government for Part L use, and CIBSE-accredited weather files, including future climate scenarios, are used for overheating.

Question: How does building simulation reduce the performance gap?

Answer: The performance gap is the difference between predicted and actual energy use. Simulation reduces this gap by modelling realistic operation rather than compliance assumptions, testing control strategies, identifying overheating and ventilation issues before construction and providing a benchmark against which the completed building can be measured. Methods such as CIBSE TM54 and NABERS Design for Performance use detailed simulation to predict real operational energy.

Question: When should building simulation be carried out?

Answer: Simulation is most valuable at concept and developed design stages, when the building form, orientation, glazing and fabric can still be changed. Early modelling identifies risks such as overheating, poor daylight or high energy demand and allows cost-effective solutions to be incorporated. Models are then refined through technical design and can be used for compliance submissions and post-occupancy evaluation.

Question: Why choose Syntegra Group for building simulation modelling?

Answer: Syntegra Group provides a full range of building simulation services across the UK, including dynamic thermal modelling, daylight and sunlight, glint and glare, CFD, lighting, microclimate, hygrothermal and BIM. Our modellers are building services engineers and sustainability consultants, so simulation results are translated into practical design advice rather than reported in isolation.

We use industry-standard, approved software and recognised methodologies so that our reports are accepted by planning authorities, building control bodies and BREEAM assessors.