Advantages & Benefits
Building with bioclimatic criteria has several advantages but, in this day and age, none feel more important than energy efficiency. The bioclimatic architecture allows you to save on electricity and gas you’d spend on air conditioning and heating, which can translate to hundreds of dollars each month nowadays.
This also means low-impact living with an emphasis on making the best of natural resources. Perhaps even more importantly to end customers, bioclimatic houses result in enhanced quality of life with more natural light, less noise pollution, and improved aesthetics.
Principles & Concepts
Bioclimatic architecture aims to achieve energy efficiency resting on two fundamental principles. The first is using renewable energy, with sun, wind, and water as prime sources. Using renewable energy means reliably and consistently converting solar energy, hydropower, and wind to electricity.
On the other hand, sustainable architecture is an umbrella term covering environmentally-friendly housing with minimised waste, maximised energy utilisation, and self-sufficiency. From recycling to reduced consumption, sustainability shapes what bioclimatic architecture stands for.
Examples
Stemming from Europe, bioclimatic architecture offers examples throughout the Old Continent. While its design and construction had been controversial, Setas de Sevilla is still a prime example of the approach. Originally named Metropol Parasol, the gigantic wooden structure was built to house the Central Market in Seville, Spain.
A couple of features mark its bioclimatic approach to solving extremely hot and humid summers for shoppers. Firstly, the use of wood goes beyond the record of the biggest wooden structure in the world, as it’s structurally very resilient. It also allows for a cooling system with pipes, which let warm air rise and be replaced by cooler air.
Last but not least, the roof is no more than a grid that holds solar panels, creating shade and supplying the whole building with electric energy. You can also take a walk and enjoy some breathtaking views along the 490 by 230 ft roof!
How You Can Benefit
Bioclimatic architecture comes down to comfort, and you can capitalise on it both indoors and outdoors. Bioclimatic pergolas, for example, allow for smart solar protection and easy thermoregulation with a press of a button while you enjoy the summer breeze.
Adding sidewall panels makes your outdoor space more enjoyable during winter, while customisation available can add to your renewable energy sources.