PhD Forum Abstract: IoT-Supported Biophilic Design for Human-Centered Net-Zero Buildings

Achieving Net-Zero Energy Buildings (nZEBs) in subtropical climates presents dual challenges: high cooling demand and occupant density. Conventional approaches often emphasize energy efficiency but frequently overlook human comfort, whereas biophilic design prioritizes well-being without adequately addressing energy performance. This research argues for the need to bridge these two blind spots. The study introduces a theoretical and methodological framework that integrates quantitative environmental data (IoT sensing, energy simulation, and machine learning-based predictive control) with qualitative human-centered assessments (EEG, VR, and post-occupancy evaluations). The goal is to explore how digital monitoring and biophilic strategies can together support operational decision-making in nZEBs. Rather than presenting final data, this PhD forum paper focuses on framing the research direction, outlining the experimental setup, and inviting community feedback on how best to integrate physiological and perceptual responses into predictive control frameworks. The outcome aims to advance the discourse on human-centered, data-driven building operations, while promoting global low-carbon transitions and supporting China's 2060 carbon neutrality target.