Hasta La Ideas

Today, The New York Times visually explains the dynamics of ‘Passive Houses’. While these efficient structures have caught on in Europe, the U.S. has yet to catch onto the concept. Peak below for the basic principles of Passive Houses:

1. Insulate it. Like 12 inches of the stuff in the walls, sixteen inches in the roof, six inches under the slab.

2. Site it well, to get passive solar gain. Design the overhangs and trellises to stop solar gain in summer.

3. Keep the design relatively small, simple and tight, minimizing exterior area and complicating jogs.

4. Install a heat recovery ventilation system to provide constant fresh air; you are going to need it in a house that is so well sealed.