N. Passive Solar Features

Capturing the light and free energy of the Northwest is one of the major design considerations for this home. A central hallway serves as a sun gathering space to capture and store heat in the increased floor and wall massing, to be released after dark. Roof overhangs were computer-modeled to allow low-angle winter sun to heat interior space by radiation and convection. Electric insulated blinds, tied into the central HAI control system, exclude high angle summer sun as needed and also preserve gains from winter days to remain inside at night. Passive solar design reduces heating costs.