Energy responsive design involves the conscious use of climatic elements and natural processes in the design of spaces. Buildings are designed to react favorably with the environment to produce balanced comfort conditions. Passive solar building design utilizes this concept to heat or cool a building by natural means. In this approach, building components and materials are articulated to make maximum use of solar radiation and climatic elements producing energy responsive spaces.

The purpose of this research is to help designers to design with energy in mind. Energy related decisions are required during conceptual design and is not an add-on item to be imposed after the design is completed. A sensitivity analysis of various energyrelated design parameters is presented. These provide a basic framework and aid in the design process, and also enable designers to get a quantitative feel of the different impacts. Designers are aware of the consequences of their design decisions and are able to make suitable trade-offs to design energy efficient spaces. Broad guidelines are articulated for four different climates with respect to exterior environment, building layout, and building elements.