tech
From Living Roofs to Rainwater Harvesting: The Future of Sustainable Homes
A new book, Homes for Our Time, by Philip Jodidio, showcases the quiet revolution in green residential architecture
TL;DR
- Sustainability is now a primary consideration in housing discussions, covering materials, energy, land use, and resilience.
- Projects feature reclaimed materials (stone, engineered timber), rainwater harvesting, and gray water recycling.
- Single-family homes are important for architectural innovation, allowing greater freedom for experimentation.
- Low-tech solutions and working with climate are key themes, including passive ventilation and using natural materials like bamboo and straw.
- Regional materials are used to reduce transportation carbon footprint and integrate homes with surroundings.
- Designs incorporate features for extreme temperatures, such as high-performing windows, insulation, and metal roofs for wildfire protection.
- Thermal mass, orientation, shading, and natural ventilation are effective passive cooling strategies.
- Infill development in urban areas uses modular systems and natural insulation like sheep's wool.
- Natural light and architectural netting help reduce energy use and maintain open spaces.
- Living roofs provide insulation, helping to regulate interior temperatures seasonally.