Ladybug Tools and IronBug online workshop, April 15-17 (McNeel Europe)

Tutors: Mateo Barbero,  Adrian Krezlik, Julia Karnas

April 15-17, 2026

10 AM-5 PM CEST (Barcelona)

Hosted on Zoom by McNeel Europe

Join us for a focused, hands-on three-day workshop on energy simulation and thermal comfort modelling using Rhino and Grasshopper, with a special emphasis on robust workflows with Ladybug Tools and advanced HVAC system simulation using IronBug, hosted in person by Dosta Tec and led by energy engineer Mateo Barbero, architect Adrian Krezlik, and energy modeller Julia Karnas.

By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

• Build and calibrate multi-zone energy models
• Know the basics of setting up a detailed HVAC system using IronBug
• Evaluate operational energy use and carbon intensity
• Model and interpret the most common thermal comfort metrics
• Integrate energy and comfort analysis into early-stage design workflows

Day 1: Foundations of Climate & Energy Modelling

The first day establishes the theoretical and computational foundations of

building energy modelling. 

• Climate modelling in the AEC context
• Future climate scenarios and their modelling
• Weather data
• Introduction to Ladybug Tools interface and workflows
• Weather data analysis and radiation studies
• Building a simple energy model in Honeybee
• Best practices for geometry, zoning, and simulation setup

Day 2: Detailed Energy Simulation & Thermal Comfort (with IronBug)

The second day focuses on advancing from simplified models to technically

rigorous simulations, including HVAC system modelling through IronBug.

• Develop a detailed multi-zone energy model
• Define program schedules, internal loads, and occupancy profiles
• Assign construction assemblies and material properties
• Analyse energy intensity and end-use breakdown
• Evaluate operational carbon intensity
• Introduction to IronBug
• HVAC system modelling logic
• System components and configuration
• Linking HVAC systems to thermal zones

Day 3: Comfort Modelling

The final day introduces thermal comfort modelling, positioned within the

broader framework of energy demand and occupant comfort.

• PMV/PPD metrics
• Adaptive comfort models
• Overheating risk assessment
• Comfort-based design optimisation strategies
• Material properties and thermal mass

Course requirements:  The training is tailored for architects, engineers, and designers seeking greater technical control over building performance modelling. Intermediate knowledge of Rhino and Grasshopper is required.

Software requirement: Rhino 8

Online course fees for each course: EUR 395 (+VAT). Full-time students and university teachers receive a 50% discount (proof of status required). Please note that we will confirm your seat after your payment has cleared.

Maximum number of participants for each course: 25. If there is no quorum, the course will be canceled 15 days before.

Course language: English

Educational seats are limited. Sign up now by contacting Verena!