Select a Passive Design Feature
Mechanical Louvers
Mechanical louvers are a great way to get
year round use out of a particular outdoor entertaining area especially if it's located on
the northern elevation. This is not critical but preferred if you can due to natural light levels which can be enjoyed.
- Block winter rains to still get use
- Open up so it doesn't affect solar gains
- Can also harvest rainwater collection
- No painting required
Clerestory Windows
Convective air movement improves cross ventilation by allowing warm, built up air to escape drawing in cool air to significantly reduce a building's indoor temperature. Even when there is no breeze clerestory windows,roof ventilators, vented ridges, eaves and gables all benefit from the rule of convection.
Skylights
Skylights provide free natural light to otherwise unlit, dull spaces where no windows are usually present due to the size limitations of the space such as walk in robes, butler's pantry or a laundry for example.
- Limit the need for artificial lighting
- Reduce energy consumptions
- Brighten up the feel of the space
- Perfect alternative to a window
Sheltered Entry
Sheltered entries provide an external air-locking effect if space is limited inside for a more traditional setup. These are not common in Australia due to popular 'open plan designs'
but a lot can be gained from both setups both inside and out.
Positioning of Trees
The right tree in the right location is critical
in passive design. Deciduous trees must
be planted to the northern elevations with evergreen varieties such as trees, shrubs
and climbing plants located on the western elevations.
- Trees shed foliage and winter sun enters
- Western plants protect building year round
- Sun entry in winter
- Shaded sun in summer
