Integrating parametric modeling (iLEED) with the LEED framework for sustainable site planning at the conceptual design stage
Although numerous building information modeling-based and computational approaches have been proposed to support sustainable building certification, most focus on isolated credits, require semi-manual workflows, or lack integration with real-time parametric design. These limitations reduce their usefulness for iterative, early-stage decision-making. By streamlining workflows for evaluating Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) v4 sustainable sites credits, this study introduces intelligent LEED (iLEED), the first unified, Grasshopper-based parametric dashboard that automates the assessment of Open Space, Heat Island, Rainwater Management, and Site Development within a single interactive platform. By directly linking geometric and environmental data to LEED compliance metrics, iLEED delivers instant feedback, comprehensive performance visualizations, and rapid testing of site strategies during the conceptual design stage. The tool’s accuracy was validated against the United States Green Building Council’s official calculators, demonstrating strong agreement and confirming its reliability. A case study further illustrated how embedding site-related assessments into a real-time parametric dashboard streamlines compliance evaluation, improves calculation accuracy, and expands opportunities for biodiversity-oriented, sustainable site development strategies. This work highlights the potential of integrated parametric frameworks to transform LEED compliance from a static, documentation-driven process into a dynamic, performance-driven design workflow.
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