Hey PPD studiers! In a recent Virtual Workshop, @coachcandaceseda fielded the following question: “How does solar access change design decisions in colder climates?”
There are a number of ways a design can maximize the benefits of solar exposure.
1. Building Orientation & Glazing
The building length and most of its windows should face south.
Glazing in the south facing walls allows for controllable daylighting and potential passive solar heat gain. In northern climates the high summer sun can be easily shaded while the low winter sun can bring light deep into spaces.
The east and west sides also experience solar gain for half of the day, but with the lower sun angles at sunrise and sunset, glare can become an issue.
North facing windows don’t provide solar heat gain and are usually subject to cold northern winds.
Clerestory windows and rooftop light scoops are ways to bring in light that can be independent of the overall building orientation.
Of course site conditions may present factors that override solar orientation. A hillside site may slope towards the best view to the west. This project might demand large windows facing the harsh western sun. In this case, operable shading devices would likely be needed to mitigate the sun.
2. Thermal Mass
Thick walls or floors of concrete, masonry, stone absorb and retain solar heat, shedding it over time. This can be especially useful in high desert areas where temperatures fluctuate greatly within the day. The amount of retention is dependent on the material thickness. Earth berms and tire bale walls also can be very effective in providing thermal mass.
3. Landscaping
Deciduous trees along the south can provide shade in the summer and allow sun in the winter. Evergreen trees, walls or berms can provide wind breaks to the north.
4. Photovoltaics
Photovoltaic panels can be placed where there is clear exposure to the southern sun. This usually is on the roof.
There are some good videos on daylighting, microclimate and wind protection in PA Section 1
Do you have any other methods for maximizing the benefits of the sun?
Ross Ishikawa, Retired Architect
Motion Graphic Artist
Black Spectacles