Reduction in building energy use as a result of food production within a double-skinned glazed facade

The function of an architectural facade ranges from very basic tasks such as shielding inhabitants from wind and rain through to more advanced processes that include active solar shading, energy capture and air management. Due to the role of facades-i.e. to separate the interior from the exterior-it is clear they will play a critical role in reducing building energy use in the future. In addition to this, architectural facades also offer an opportunity for urban inhabitants to engage with and benefit from ecosystem services. With the development of soilless food systems, it is now within the realms of possibility to integrate lightweight agricultural systems within and upon existing buildings. This is of particular interest when considering double-skin facades, which not only create conditions very similar to that of a greenhouse but also provide a cavity in which to grow food. It is believed the presence of crops within a double skin facade will result in a net reduction in building energy use, due to the presence of foliage and growing channels. The following paper aims to quantify the impact of facade-farms on building energy use as a result of crop growth within double-skinned facades.