The hidden benefits of comfort: An interview with Architect Stephen Selkowitz
Selkowitz is the group leader of the Windows and Envelope Materials Group for Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Berkeley Lab is a member of the national laboratory system supported by the U.S. Department of Energy and is managed by the University of California. Stephen is an internationally recognized expert on window technologies, façade systems, and daylighting.
Neil Gordon: Why does the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory study high performance facade solutions?
Stephen Selkowitz: All buildings constitute 39% of total energy used in the U.S. Commercial building energy
use is almost half of that percentage, or 18% of the U.S. total. Heating, cooling and lighting constitute 57% of that total energy end use in commercial buldings and facades have a large influence over these loads.
NG: I understand that one of Berkeley Lab’s missions is to assist industry to bring sustainable engineered shading solutions to market. How is this done?
SS: First we work with manufacturers to help them develop dynamic shading products through our test facilities. We can advise on improved materials and controls. We assist architects and engineers to measure and optimize performance of various solutions and we collaborate with contractors and owners to measure and document field performance.
NG: What technology has Berkeley Labs developed?
SS: Sometimes, we develop our own technology that we license out to industry such as window sensors that send signals via wifi to control shades based on the weather conditions. We have also worked with manufacturers such as Pella in developing an in-between glass motorized shade.
NG: As a function of the dynamic façade, how do we understand the cost benefit of installing engineered shading solutions?
SS: One of the missing links of calculating the cost benefit is the investment of comfort of the occupants. This measurement of productivity through comfort may be the driving force, not energy payback. 
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