Passive Strategies
Our prototypes incorporate passive “green” form-giving ideas and strategies that are region specific and integrated into the overall building fabric from its inception. Included among them, in response to Houston’s hot and humid climate, are:
- Orientations with operable windows and/or screened porches and doors opposite one another to allow cross ventilation
- Long, narrow floor plans with few if any hallways for maximum ventilation
- Open living areas with high ceilings to maximize air movement and reduce radiant heat to occupants
- Natural daylighting to reduce the need for daytime, artificial lighting
- Sloping roofs with overhangs to accommodate Houston’s heavy downpours
- Lightweight, locally friendly and available materials
- Smaller building footprints and minimal square footage
- Natural landscapes with indigenous plant material and natural drainage
- Independent living space for extended family members or separate office and meeting space for those who work from home
- Strategically placed windows and overhangs to control solar gain
- Region specific and site specific design
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