There’s a lot being said about global warming and the urgent need for a shift to alternative fuels. Though few seem to be taking genuine large-scale action, this new building in Seattle designed by Weber Thompson seems to have set the pace for energy efficiency.
Its architecture incorporates ‘passive cooling’ concepts and elements that have completely eliminated the need for high-powered air conditioning. Conventional cooling by electric energy and gadgetry has been replaced with strategic shading and orientation, green-tinted glass shades (similar to sunglasses) that negate heat while allowing light into the building. While heat-reflective coating will reduce temperatures, window adjustability will allow employees to actively manage their environment.
An airy central courtyard within the 40,000 square foot structure will grant unhindered passage for cross breezes to divert to all parts of the building.
Thermal modeling was initially conceived for application in space, so this Weber Thompson design is likely to form a ‘test case’ for the incorporation of passive cooling in more earthly blueprint. Although this could not be practical in a less temperate climate, it is enriching to know that by employing passive cooling, they might already have saved at least one third-world village.
Via: Metaefficient
