Architecture can design for extreme weather events at the micro and macro scales.
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Design for extreme weather at the macro scale – designing buildings which are energy efficient, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, remove the need for mechanical heating or cooling and use passive solar principles contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions.
Design for extreme weather at the micro scale – architecture can accommodate extreme weather in several ways as illustrated here:
Heavy rainfall and flooding can be addressed by raising a building on stilts, using permeable materials at ground level, selecting building materials which can withstand wet and dry cycles. Stiletto House is a case study in flood-proof design.
Courtyards can be used to create pockets of outdoor space protected from high winds and storms, providing sheltered areas and place-specific micro-climates – strategies used in Breuer House.
Wind driven rain and excessive solar heat gain can be addressed through movable screens, allowing occupants to modify the building as needed depending on the weather conditions – exemplified by Abbotsford House and 3-Garden House.
The design for extreme weather, one or more strategies must be selected. What is appropriate for a given project will vary according to the particular climate, site, location and other project specifics. Architecture that integrates climate and weather events into a design solution can yield practical solutions that are also beautiful.
