DesignBuilder
Simulate how a building will actually perform before it's built.
What it is
About DesignBuilder
DesignBuilder provides a graphical front-end to the EnergyPlus simulation engine, letting users model a building's geometry, construction, HVAC systems and occupancy patterns to predict energy consumption, thermal comfort, daylighting and CO2 emissions. It's widely used to support Part L Building Regulations compliance through SBEM and SAP calculations, BREEAM assessments and early-stage sustainable design decisions.
What you can do with it
Capabilities
Model building geometry, fabric and construction build-ups
Simulate annual energy consumption and carbon emissions
Assess thermal comfort and overheating risk
Model daylighting and natural ventilation strategies
Support Part L compliance and BREEAM and sustainability assessments
How to learn it
Learning Resources
DesignBuilder's official tutorials and training courses
CIBSE (Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers) energy modelling training
YouTube channels covering DesignBuilder and EnergyPlus workflows
Practise by modelling a simple known building and validating results against manual calculations
Pro Tip
Build and validate a simplified base-case model first before adding complexity — most modelling errors come from geometry or construction-property mistakes far easier to catch early.
Skills that use this tool
Roles that use this tool