sustainable design in provence: latest study in building resiliency and comfort
- Eric Gratacap
- Mar 24, 2024
- 1 min read
We are excited to share our recent project study in the Provence region of France. Aethos Atelier has incorporated various passive strategies aimed at enhancing occupant comfort, fostering a connection with nature, reducing energy consumption, and preparing for future climate challenges.
Strategic Highlights:
Embodied Carbon Reduction: We started by retrofitting a historic stone building, focusing on minimizing embodied carbon. We preserved the original structure and used locally-sourced, sustainable materials, reducing the need for new, virgin resources. Thermal Comfort Measures: Deep overhangs and lush plantings have been added to shade the facade and outdoor spaces, reducing heat gain and enriching the indoor-outdoor living experience. High-Performance
Facade: Our insulation strategy involves the use of natural, locally-sourced hemp, which has been applied to the facade and roof to moderate thermal conditions year-round. All windows and skylights have been replaced with high-performing, double-pane, gas-filled windows and insulating frames.
Optimized Ventilation Design: We have strategically oriented windows to capture prevailing winds and have supplemented this with indoor and outdoor overhead fans to optimize natural ventilation.
Evaporative Cooling Elements: Basins of flowing water and ceiling misters have been placed in alignment with prevailing winds in outdoor living areas to enhance comfort through evaporative cooling. To explore these strategies in greater detail and learn how they can be applied to your home for future climate resilience, please reach out to us at contact@aethosatelier for our full report.
