Passive solar house design is a passive architecture method that utilizes natural sunlight and materials to passively heat and cool homes. By incorporating natural sunlight into the building envelope, the sun’s radiant heat can provide a comfortable indoor temperature, while also reducing the energy costs associated with heating and cooling a house. In addition to cost savings, passive solar homes can also offer an aesthetically pleasing design, as well as design flexibility. The key to a successful passive solar house design is to identify the most energy efficient techniques and materials that will optimize performance. A thorough analysis of the site’s solar orientation, in addition to window and wall placements, and the utilization of thermal mass materials should all be taken into consideration. If properly designed, a passive solar house can remain comfortable throughout the entire year without the need for any additional energy consumption. Passive Solar House Design
A super-insulated house design provides an additional layer of energy efficiency over traditional insulation methods. This design combines high-performance building materials, as well as advanced architectural strategies that minimize energy loss and maximize energy efficiency. In a super-insulated house, the walls and windows are constructed with several layers of insulation, creating an airtight and extremely efficient envelope. Additionally, energy comes from passive sources, such as the solar energy from the windows, as well as from active sources, such as mechanical systems and appliances. In this way, the super-insulated house design ensures a reduction in home energy costs, while also providing a healthy and comfortable indoor climate. Super-Insulated House Design
A high-performance wall system is a building envelope that is specifically designed to reduce energy loss and minimize air infiltration. This system combines high-performance materials and air-sealing techniques to create a tight, energy-efficient environment. High-performance wall systems also help to improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of environment-related illnesses, such as asthma and allergies. Incorporating a high-performance wall system into an Art Deco style home provides both energy-efficiency and aesthetic appeal. The beauty and functionality of these systems mean that the walls can be a focal point in the home, while also providing a reduction in energy costs. High-Performance Wall Systems
Thermal mass applications refer to the application of energy efficient materials in order to reduce indoor temperature fluctuations. This design technique utilizes materials, such as concrete and masonry, which have a higher capacity for absorbing and releasing heat. For Art Deco style homes, incorporating thermal mass applications can be especially beneficial. Due to their high thermal mass capacity, these materials provide an effective way to regulate the temperature of the home, while also decreasing the need for additional heating and cooling systems. Thermal Mass Applications
Natural lighting techniques make use of the sun’s natural light to efficiently and effectively light up the interior of a house. This type of lighting provides a more natural and comfortable feel inside the home. It also promotes energy efficiency, as natural lighting eliminates the need for traditional lighting sources, such as incandescent bulbs. Incorporating natural lighting into an Art Deco style home can provide a beautiful yet energy efficient design element. Large windows, bay windows, and skylights can all be utilized to add an airy and inviting ambiance while still providing maximum energy efficiency. Natural Lighting Techniques
A Low-E insulation system is a high-performance insulation system that reduces the transfer of heat from the outside of the home to the inside. This system helps maintain comfortable temperatures and reduce the risk of indoor air pollution by trapping heat on the sides of walls and roofs. Low-E insulation systems are also designed to reflect sunlight away from a building, conserving energy and keeping a building cool in summer months. For Art Deco style homes, a low-E insulation system will provide energy savings while still maintaining the look and feel of the original design. Incorporating this system into the building envelope can provide superior energy performance while still allowing the building to retain its Art Deco charm. Low-E Insulation System
A dynamic glazing heat sink is a highly efficient way to convert sunlight into energy. This advanced system utilizes smart window glazing to maximize energy efficiency by reflecting heat away from the building while still allowing natural light to enter. In the context of an Art Deco house, incorporating this technology can provide both beautiful aesthetics and energy savings. By employing dynamic glazing heat sinks, homeowners can save money while still enjoying the sunshine and the geometric shapes that are commonly found in Art Deco styles. Dynamic Glazing Heat Sink
Advanced ventilation strategies are essential to any energy efficient home. Proper ventilation helps to maintain air quality and reduce moisture levels, while minimizing the amount of energy lost through air infiltration. Additionally, advanced ventilation strategies help to reduce the risk of toxic gases that can be generated from combustion appliances, such as fireplaces and furnaces. Incorporating advanced venting strategies into an Art Deco styled home can be achieved through the use of mechanical or passive venting systems. Utilizing these systems can provide a comfortable and healthy indoor environment, while still allowing the beauty of the Art Deco design to shine through. Advanced Ventilation Strategies
Thermally controlled indoor air quality is a mechanism that utilizes thermal mass, high-performance ventilation systems, and high-efficiency filters to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. This system focuses not only on maintaining comfortable temperatures, but also on reducing energy bills and enhancing indoor air quality. Incorporating thermally controlled indoor air quality in an Art Deco style home helps to maintain the beauty of the original design, while also providing maximum comfort and saving energy. By utilizing this advanced system, homeowners can enjoy a healthy and sustainable environment while still appreciating the classic design of an Art Deco home.Thermally Controlled Indoor Air Quality
A high performance heat recovery system is a form of air-to-air heat exchange that recycles heat from the exhaust air produced inside the building. This system effectively recovers heat from the out-going air stream and transfers it to the incoming air stream, thus reducing energy losses. Heat recovery systems are particularly beneficial for Art Deco style homes, as they can keep the home comfortable without the need for additional energy inputs. This system can also provide energy savings in the long run by reducing energy bills and helping to maintain comfortable temperatures indoors. High Performance Heat Recovery Systems