An art deco house is a perfect example of the blending of modern and traditional architecture. Combining a classic aesthetic with modern energy-efficiency it can be a green-building dream. To achieve an art deco house that stands the test of time, and is as energy-efficient as possible, there are a few key passive house design strategies that must be utilized. Firstly, it is recommended to use passive house design strategies such as passive solar gains and air tightness and ventilation control. Passive solar gains allow for the natural energy of the sun to enter the building and be utilized in a more efficient manner. With air tightness and ventilation control, the air that is being circulated is being filtered and cleaned more effectively reducing the amount of toxins and pollutants.Passive House Design Strategies
Passive House Design Strategies
Passive solar gains is the collection and redistribution of the natural energy output of the sun. This can be achieved through a process known as passive solar heating. This type of design is perfect for art deco house designs as it can provide a great deal of insulation as well as heat. The most important part of achieving passive solar gains is the use of windows that are designed to maximize the natural light available in a home. Another way to maximize the natural energy output of the sun is to use specific roof design materials. This includes materials that are highly reflective in order to bounce the sunlight off and enter the building in a more efficient manner.Passive Solar Gains
Passive Solar Gains
Air tightness and ventilation control is a key factor in achieving a sustainable and air tight house using art deco design strategies. This can be achieved through the use of specialised installation methods, such as vapor barriers and air tightness measures. It is also important to ensure that the air in the house is being exchanged in an efficient manner. This means that a good air handler should be installed as well as an air exchanger that can filter out air pollutants and toxins. This will help to keep the air in the home clean and breathable.Air Tightness and Ventilation Control
Air Tightness and Ventilation Control
A thermal bridge is a path of conductive heat and moisture from the building's interior to the exterior. The minimization of these bridges requires that the exterior walls and roof of an art deco house be insulated properly. This can be done using the proper materials and installation methods. It is important to consider both the insulation materials used in the exterior of the house as well as those inside. By insulating both the inside and outside of the building, the amount of heat escaping is drastically reduced.Minimization of Thermal Bridges
Minimization of Thermal Bridges
A major factor that must be considered when designing an art deco house is the level of insulation in the house. By ensuring that the house is insulated properly, the house will be more energy-efficient and will help to reduce the amount of energy used in heating and cooling. The best way to determine the level of insulation required in the house is by conducting an energy audit. This will provide an accurate picture of the entire house's insulation needs as well as what type of insulation should be used.High Levels of Insulation
High Levels of Insulation
The Energy Star rating system is used to recognize well-designed and energy-efficient homes that meet certain criteria in the areas of energy consumption, efficiency, and emissions. It is important to consider this when choosing art deco home designs, as these homes are often built to a high level of energy-efficiency. By choosing an Energy Star rated house design, the homeowner can rest easy knowing that their home is built to the highest levels of energy-efficiency and will be more energy-efficient than most other houses on the market.High Grade Energy Star Rated House Designs
High Grade Energy Star Rated House Designs
Passive House Design is Based on a Simple Principle
The passive house design approach is based on a very simple principle: minimizing heating and cooling demand by reducing the amount of energy needed to regulate the indoor environment . The idea is that by doing this, a building can be designed with the best insulation, air-sealing, ventilation, and windows to make a building as "passive" as possible. The result is a comfortable, efficient, and sustainable home that is off the grid and also provides a healthful indoor environment.
5 Principles of Passive House Design
There are five key principles to consider when designing a passive house. These are:
1. Minimize Heating and Cooling Requirements
The goal of passive design is to reduce the amount of energy needed to regulate temperature and humidity inside the home. This means that the building should be as air-tight and insulated as possible. This reduces air infiltration and prevents heat and cold air loss.
2. Utilize Passive Solar Gains
A well-designed passive house will use natural sources of heat, light and cooling through orientation, window placement, shading, and thermal mass materials. This helps to regulate the temperature inside the house without the need for additional energy sources.
3. Maximize Ventilation
The design of the house should include adequate ventilation so that the air inside the house is continually refreshed and free of pollutants. This helps to keep the indoor air healthy and energy efficient.
4. Maximize Daylight
The design should incorporate natural light to reduce the need for artificial lighting. This helps to reduce energy consumption and creates a more pleasant living environment.
5. Utilize Building Materials with High Thermal Mass
Thermal mass materials, such as concrete and masonry, are excellent at storing heat and can help to regulate indoor temperatures. Utilizing these materials as part of the building design can help to further reduce energy demands.
