Passive Solar Construction Methods -Lessons Learned from the Experimental Solar House

The discipline of Solar Architecture, which has been gaining popularity and momentum in geometric rates, is unique in its direct and immediate connection to the characteristics of its designated site. Although most architectural forms gain validity via their site-specificity, none does more so than Solar Architecture. Site characteristics range from geomorphology, local energy resources and potential, micro- and macro-climatic conditions as well as a breadth of social parameters. Cyprus’ climate lies within the temperate Mediterranean zone, with average hottest peak reaching 41°C in the summer and dropping to an approximate of 5°C in the winter. Relative humidity ranges from 40-60%, and a considerable daily temperature fluctuation is observed, with up to 18°C difference between day and night temperatures. Thus Cyprus’ climate calls for effective, efficient and ecological means of cooling in the summer and heating in the winter months. The Experimental Solar House is a private initiative whose construction was completed in 2000 and whose mission statement was to investigate and implement best practices in passive solar design in Cyprus. Its spatial and aesthetic characterises were derived from the basic typology of a middleclass, Cypriot dwelling of the late twentieth century. Passive solar design, as it pertains to architecture and construction, describes the general practice of exploiting natural, renewable energy sources to maintain steady, comfortable indoor temperatures. It mainly entails using solar energy for winter heating and natural wind for summer cooling in the northern hemisphere. The implementation of passive solar design ranges from simple actions (like opening the blinds of a house during the morning hours to allow heat to enter and be absorbed internally and the slowly released after the sun sets) to more forms like shading mechanisms whose design and orientation allows winter sun to enter while protecting against summer sun. A full account of passive solar design is not within the scope of this paper