Performance Optimization of Building Envelope Through BIM and Multi-Criteria Analysis

Stefano Cascone (), Valeria Anastasi and Rosa Caponetto
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Stefano Cascone: Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia, 64, 95125 Catania, Italy
Valeria Anastasi: Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia, 64, 95125 Catania, Italy
Rosa Caponetto: Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia, 64, 95125 Catania, Italy

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 12, 1-26

Abstract: In response to the growing demand for sustainable and performance-driven building design, this study proposes an integrated digital methodology that combines Building Information Modeling (BIM), parametric scripting, and multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) to optimize external wall assemblies. The approach leverages Autodesk Revit and Dynamo to automate the parametrization of insulation thickness while ensuring compliance with regulatory thresholds for thermal transmittance and surface mass. Acoustic performance is estimated using ECHO software, and a Weighted Sum Model (WSM) is applied to evaluate and rank configurations based on four criteria: economic cost, Global Warming Potential (GWP), embodied energy, and acoustic insulation. A case study involving 24 wall assemblies—generated from eight base stratigraphies and three insulation materials—demonstrates the method’s ability to balance environmental impact, occupant comfort, and construction feasibility. The results indicate that natural and bio-based materials, such as rammed earth and cork, offer the best overall performance, while conventional systems remain competitive in terms of cost. The proposed workflow reduces design time, increases transparency, and supports informed decision-making during early design stages. This research contributes to the digitalization of sustainability assessment in architecture by promoting integrative, replicable, and regulation-aligned practices for low-impact building envelopes.

Keywords: parametric method; sustainability assessment; material selection; digital workflow; thermal regulation compliance; design automation; wall assemblies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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