CasaZeroEnergy is the prototype for a building that does not use energy produced from non-renewable sources, but produces its require energy by using alternative energetic…
Abstract
CasaZeroEnergy is the prototype for a building that does not use energy produced from non-renewable sources, but produces its require energy by using alternative energetic systems. Designed according to the principles of bioclimatic architecture, the building was integrated with passive systems for optimizing the site's climatic conditions for heating in winter and for cooling and ventilation in summer. The house was constructed with natural, renewable, recycled and recyclable materials. For this reason it can be classified as a “natural building”. Its main feature is the integration between the building and the alternative systems in order to produce energy from renewable sources: sunspace, solar collectors, photovoltaic panels, a geothermal system and a pellet boiler system. Home automation manages all the mechanical systems to ensure comfort and reduced energy consumption at the same time. The sunspace is a passive solar system used mainly for heating indoor spaces during the winter season. The building's cooling system is based on natural ventilation strategies and on geothermal heat pumps. The building is provided with shading systems. A smart system was devised to guarantee user safety and security. This kind of system can be controlled remotely and provides constant security for the building.
Details
Keywords
Antonio Frattari and David Lawrence
The purpose of this paper is to introduce the innovative concept of “envelope within an envelope” as a tool to give redundant timber farm barns (which may be perceived as…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to introduce the innovative concept of “envelope within an envelope” as a tool to give redundant timber farm barns (which may be perceived as uneconomic for adaptation) new life for residential purposes. It aims to outline research that is proposed in order to provide guidelines for conservation/preservation professionals, potential user/occupants, investors and developers. It is based upon current problems existing in the Trentino region of Italy and the state of Michigan in the USA.
Design/methodology/approach
After explaining the new concept and its potential for solving current conservation/preservation problems, the paper introduces technical and facilities management (FM) goals for research and development. Within the FM goal a series of objectives are outlined giving a broad methodology to consider user needs, costings, and communication needs for raising awareness.
Findings
The concept recognizes traditional conservation/preservation interventions capable of extending the life of a structure while at the same time permitting innovative technology to be introduced to provide modern and sustainable accommodation that will be perceived as economically viable.
Originality/value
The concept of “envelope within an envelope” incorporates not only technical elements of conservation/preservation but also behavioural and economic elements arising from the user‐orientated emphasis given by the introduction of an FM framework. This improves on the technocratic solutions that are offered by the “structure within a structure” concept.