Passive Design Strategies

Passive

Harnessing solar energy dates back to the Ancient Greeks and Romans. The Greek philosopher Socrates wrote "In houses that look towards the south, the sun penetrates the portico in winter". Romans advanced the art by covering south facing building openings with glass or mica to hold in the heat of the winter sun. Even the Egyptians used Passive solar design in their architecture.

Passive solar design means - the use architecture makes of the sun's capacity to light and heat indoor spaces. It involves designing buildings using fabrics, orientation and layout to make the best use of the heat and light energy freely available from sun. By using simple passive solar design measures today the heating needs of an individual house can be reduced by 30%.

Offspring recognises that site, shape layout and access, planning issues, functional use and marketability all must take a role when designing a property. Our consultants can work with you to ensure a balance of design factors meet your needs and desires.

Solar Energy

Solar energy is the harnessing of heat and light from the sun. Even in Ireland solar energy offers more potential than most people realise.

Solar energy can be divided into Passive Solar Energy and Active Solar Energy. Active Solar Energy can be both Solar Thermal Water Heating and Photovoltaic.

Contact Us

Offspring can provide further information so please contact us for a consultation.