XYZ
year : 2024
location : New england
Köppen climate classification : Dfa
XYZ employs a nested wall system where the interstitial spaces between the conventional wall’s component layers expand to form actual physical rooms. By delaminating and nesting each layer with distinct thermal properties outward in three directions (X, Y, Z), the project establishes a gradient of climatic zones from its inner thermal core or exterior. This gradient responds to local climate conditions, occupant usage patterns over time, and varying metabolic levels of activities. XYZ incorporates a dispersive system that understands energy movement in a ‘transient’ condition as an alternative to conventional isolation systems that neglect the time factor. This novel yet archaic strategy engineers energy to cycle through the space over time, aligning with occupant diurnal patterns and behaviors. By calibrating material thermal properties, such as diffusivity and volumetric heat, this project achieves an optimal phase shift and a high heat storage capacity. This enables, for instance, energy actively generated at night to be stored and subsequently dispersed to other areas when needed, maximizing its effectiveness in the challenging New England climate. 3D Nesting also optimizes the capture of ambient energy through passive means when advantageous, generating a gradient of thermal zones. The sunroom functions as a habitable Trombe wall, providing preheated air to other rooms during colder periods. XYZ’s thermal strategy encourages diverse occupant activities within the house by fostering healthy and comfortable indoor climate conditions. Through ‘energy breathing,’ energy is strategically utilized and distributed at opportune times, maximizing energy efficiency.
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