Engineering Perspectives on Single-Family House Design : A Comparative Study Between Central and Northern Europe

Abstract

This bachelor’s thesis presents a comparative engineering study of a single-family house designed with identical geometry and materials in two different European regions, Slovakia and Finland. The aim was to examine how climate conditions, regulatory requirements, structural loading, energy performance, and economical aspects of construction influence residential building design. The research follows a structured comparative methodology. First, a unified architectural and structural model of the house was developed. This model served as the basis for all analyses, ensuring that differences comes from external factors rather than design variations. Structural analysis was performed using Eurocode standards and national annexes to identify how local load conditions influence the design. Energy performance was evaluated through dynamic simulation to show how heating and cooling demands are influenced. The analysis highlights the role of national energy legislation, insulation requirements, and envelope standards in shaping the thermal performance of a building. Economic assessment was carried out to explore how construction costs vary due to regional labour markets, material pricing, and technical requirements. Although, the thesis does not aim to produce a single optimal design, it provides a clear framework for understanding how comparative engineering evaluations are performed and why they are essential when a building is implemented in multiple regions. The thesis emphasizes the importance of climate responsive design, compliance with local standards, and economical feasibility in residential construction, offering engineers and designers a methodological foundation for adapting buildings across varying European contexts.