Best Of 84+ Charming Characteristics Of A Passive Solar House Design Top Choices Of Architects

Windows are essential to an Art Deco house design and should exploit the south-facing orientation to maximize the amount of natural light streaming in. This will further benefit from careful attention to placement and orientation of the windows on the building envelope. Art Deco houses are typically known for their rectangular windows, but choosing high performing, energy-efficient glazing can also really benefit the homeowners. To limit heat loss, double-glazed windows can provide greater insulation for any Art Deco home. This will contribute to a more comfortable living space while increasing the energy efficiency of the home.

Light-colored reflective surfaces should be used when facing windows that open up to the south. For this purpose, heat-absorbent materials such as metal can be installed on the roof and employed on windows to increase the amount of ambient light that is gathered into the home. Utilizing transmittance glass is also beneficial as it allows sunlight to enter but prevents it from escaping, so it should be included in the design.

The building materials you choose for your Art Deco house can also make a big difference in terms of energy efficiency. Brick, stone, and concrete are all great options as they will have a lower heat transfer coefficient, providing insulation to any space they are employed within. However, when it comes to insulation, be sure to consider both the thickness and the type of insulation material you are using. For example, choosing an insulation with a high R-value is necessary in order to reduce energy consumption.

In order to reduce the amount of energy consumed, it is important to consider the thermal mass in the construction of the Art Deco house. Integrating mass-heavy materials like concrete and brick into the design can help to maintain the temperature of the building. This process is known as thermal storage, which works by capturing the heat from the sun within the materials and keeping it stored until later in the day when it can be released again. By using thermal mass, the house can also react to external temperature changes, absorbing heat in the day and releasing it at night to maintain comfortable temperatures.

Maintaining a thermal envelope is essential to reducing the amount of energy consumed in an Art Deco house. A successful thermal envelope requires airtight door and window frames, fully sealed wall cavities, and insulation in key spots like the attic and basement. It is also important to consider the weatherstripping around doors and windows for added insulation. These measures combined will help to reduce the amount of drafty air in the home, making it much more comfortable for the occupants.

The placement of both windows and vents is crucial to achieving a comfortable and energy-efficient Art Deco house. For starters, the windows should be placed according to orientation and glazing properties, ensuring they capture the most sunlight when it is at its most beneficial. Furthermore, the placement of vents and other openings in the building can allow desired airflows and increase insulation while promoting air circulation. This will assist in maintaining acceptable temperatures throughout the house.

Green roofs provide the perfect balance of beauty and energy efficiency, making them great contenders for an Art Deco house. These roofs are made up of vegetation, which has a range of added benefits to the structure. The vegetation on green roofs absorb the majority of the sun’s heat energy, protecting the building from overheating and providing natural insulation. They are also known to reduce air pollution, improve air quality, and absorb rainwater while reducing the amount of runoff.

Choosing an appropriate orientation for your Art Deco house is key, as the sun has a direct effect on the amount of heat gain and loss. As the sun moves throughout the day, its rays reach different sides of the building. Orienting the house to the south will ensure the most natural sunlight is used efficiently. Additionally, shading mechanisms should be installed on side facing the sun, as this will reduce the amount of heat entering the building whilst allowing natural light to stream through.

Insulation mechanisms play an important role in thermal comfort and energy efficiency. In an Art Deco house, options like reflective roofing, natural materials, and outdoor shading are great ways of reducing the amount of heat entering the building. Meanwhile, employing storm windows, weather stripping, and insulation can help to reduce air leakage and keep the interior temperatures comfortable. All insulation methods should be chosen based on the architecture and positioning of the building, as this will ensure the most effective result.

In order to ensure energy efficiency is met all year round, it is necessary to include an appropriate backup heating system in your Art Deco house. Options like a wood-burning stove, a heat pump, or a furnace should be considered, as they provide consistent warmth on cold days. A certified installer should be consulted for assistance on choosing the most suitable systems for the house, as they will be able to recommend the most energy efficient models for the space and provide expertise on installation.