In this article, we will explore what Passive Architecture is and how it can be utilized effectively by architects. Passive Architecture involves blending conventional architectural principles with solar & wind energy and the inherent properties of building materials to ensure that the interiors remain warm in winter and cool in summer, thus creating a year-round comfortable environment.
Some of the techniques used to achieve this include: thermal mass construction, roofing systems, wind towers, roof gardens and earth tunnel cooling. The benefits these techniques provide include: comfort, eco-friendliness, high air quality and versatility.
Form and orientation constitute two of the most important passive design strategies for reducing energy consumption and improving thermal comfort for occupants of a building. It affects the amount of sun falling on surfaces, daylighting and direction of winds.
Innovative Passive Design Techniques:
1. Active Facades:
Adaptive facades are building envelopes (generally modelled on biomimicry) that are able to adapt to changing boundary conditions in the form of short-term weather fluctuations or seasonal patterns.
2. Double Skin Facades:
A facade system consisting of two layers, usually glass, wherein air flows through the intermediate cavity. This acts as an insulation against extreme temperatures, winds, and sound.
3. Reflective Cooling System:
Cool roof system for buildings is a roofing system that can deliver high reflectance (the ability to the visible, infrared and ultraviolet wavelength of the sun, reducing heat to the building) and high thermal emittance.
4. Solar Thermal Cladding:
This is a cladding system that is made up of glass and wood that captures passive solar energy to reverse energy gradient in walls. The solid wood-absorber sits against the conventional insulated wall and serves as heat buffer.
5. Electrochromic Glazing:
Electrochromic glass (a.k.a. smart glass or dynamic) is an electronically tint-able glass used for windows, skylights, facades and curtain walls.
Thus, we've discussed about Passive Architecture and
Passive Architecture Designs that are both innovative and helpful. Hope you found this article both eye-opening and fun.