Passive design is an architectural strategy focused on reducing energy consumption without resorting to advanced mechanical or technological systems. Through proper orientation, natural ventilation, thermal insulation and other bioclimatic principles, these dwellings achieve optimal thermal comfort with minimal environmental impact. Below, we explore how this approach can be applied to projects in new construction and refurbishment.
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What is passive design?
Passive design seeks to maximise the use of natural resources to optimise energy efficiency in a home. Rather than relying on active systems such as air conditioning or heating, these houses harness the sunlight, thermal inertia and cross ventilation to regulate temperature naturally.
Main strategies of passive design
Use of solar orientation
One of the key factors in passive design is the strategic location of the house.. By considering the solar path, it is possible to improve thermal efficiency and reduce the need for artificial lighting.
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South facing: Captures the most light and heat in winter.
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North facing: Maintains more stable temperatures and avoids overheating.
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Solar shading: Elements such as eaves, pergolas and vegetation regulate the amount of solar radiation entering the house.
Designing efficient spaces according to orientation is an essential aspect of any new construction project.
Improving thermal insulation
Good thermal insulation is key to avoiding heat loss in winter and maintaining comfort in summer. Choosing the right materials can make all the difference in terms of energy efficiency.
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Insulating materials such as rock wool, cork or cellulose provide high thermal efficiency.
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Triple-glazed windows improve insulation capacity.
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Minimised thermal bridges reduce temperature losses through the building structure.
These improvements are often implemented in retrofit projects to increase the energy efficiency of existing dwellings.
Natural ventilation and thermal comfort
Homes designed with cross-ventilation strategies allow for efficient air renewal without the need for mechanical systems.
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Strategic placement of windows to promote air circulation.
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Use of interior courtyards to optimise ventilation in hot climates.
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Humidity regulating materials that improve indoor air quality.
Applying these solutions in a renovation can improve thermal comfort without the need for major structural interventions.
Thermal inertia and heat storage
The use of materials with high thermal inertia allows heat to be stored during the day and progressively released at night, maintaining more stable temperatures.
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Stone or adobe walls that absorb heat and redistribute it.
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Ceramic or natural wood floors help to regulate the temperature.
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Indoor water bodies that optimise natural cooling.
This principle is fundamental in the design of new housing developments seeking thermal efficiency without additional technologies.
Benefits of passive design
Passive design offers multiple advantages both economically and environmentally:
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Significant energy savings, reducing heating and cooling demand.
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Greater thermal comfort, maintaining stable temperatures without major variations.
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Reduced maintenance, as it does not rely on expensive mechanical systems.
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Sustainability, reducing the carbon footprint in the long term.
The future of efficient architecture
Passive design represents a key solution for building more efficient and sustainable housing without resorting to technology-intensive systems. Through proper planning, it is possible to reduce energy demand and improve the comfort of living spaces.