Integrating passive design strategies into this new residence was a critical element due to the recent increase in public safety power shutoffs as a result of climate change. Atelier Ten studied various shading and natural ventilation strategies to significantly increase comfort for residents during emergencies and also increase energy efficiency during normal operations.
External shading was integrated on the south, east, and west facades to reduce the need for air conditioning, improve occupant comfort and increase resilience. Atelier Ten performed solar radiation studies to test different shading options to see how different various scenarios compared in performance, LEED points, peak cooling load reductions, occupant comfort, and view hours. In addition, we performed daylight and thermal comfort analyses for the central courtyard and terrace to provide optimal locations for plantings and furniture. Studying various energy efficiency scenarios, Atelier Ten integrated rooftop photovoltaics, all-electric heating and cooling, natural ventilation and low flow fixtures into the drive energy consumption down.
