Building design traditionally focuses on providing thermal comfort with an emphasis on air temperature, largely neglecting the other factors that influence an occupant’s thermal comfort, including radiant temperatures, air speed, humidity, metabolic rate, and clothing insulation value. Of the factors that influence thermal comfort, the quantity, geometry, and thermal performance of glazing is a critical factor. Under winter conditions, cold windows can create low mean radiant temperatures and localized downdraft currents. Conversely, when occupants experience direct solar exposure, they can experience discomfort from heat gain, direct shortwave radiation, and warm radiant surfaces exposed to the sun.

This presentation will challenge conventional approaches to thermal comfort design and performance, illustrating the importance of holistic design, and enclosure and systems integration.

Presenter: Elizabeth Galloway, PE, CEM, CPHD, LEED APBD+C, WELL AP / Associate

Bio: Elizabeth joined Payette in 2019 as a Building Scientist with a diverse background in engineering, building performance analysis, and sustainable design consulting. She brings a depth of technical knowledge and understanding of building systems integration to her projects and is leading Payette’s AIA 2030 Commitment efforts. She is also leading the development of a Glazing and Summer Comfort Tool to complement Payette’s existing Winter Comfort Tool. A tireless advocate for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, she also serves on the City of Somerville’s Commission for Energy Use and Climate Change and represents Payette in support of a statewide net zero code. Elizabeth previously has worked at Symmes Maini & McKee Associates as a Senior Associate, collaborating with architects and engineers to advance project sustainable performance. She also has experience with KPFF Consulting Engineers in Los Angeles as well as the Massachusetts Highway Department. Liz received her Master of Science degree in Civil and Environmental engineering from Stanford University, as well as her Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.