Inspiration

Sture Larsen is an independent architect working in Vorarlberg Austria. Affordable low energy housing brought him several awards beginning with the  Binding Award for Environmental Conservation in 1989 and culminating in the Austrian State Award for Energy Research in 1997. His building projects lead to further work related to solar architecture such as consulting work for institutions for energy conservation, numerous lectures for professionals and research work for the International Energy Agency such as "Solar Air Systems" and "Sustainable Solar Housing"

Solar architecture is the art of designing energy efficient buildings with a high level of comfort.  Quality of life and the experience of a self-efficient ambient are just as much a goal as protecting the environment.  It implies a careful balance of thermal conservation, choice of construction and the use of solar energy.

The major part of the required energy will be provided by passive and active solar energy systems based on air collectors and thermal storage. By placing large windows in the south facade, passive solar gains are used to further reduce the auxiliary energy consumption. As well they support the typical glasshouse look, that is common for most projects of solar architecture. Solar collectors in the roof provide energy for domestic hot water.Electricity is provided by two PV systems. The PV system on the roof of the garage charges the battery of the solar car. The hybrid PV system on the house is part of the active solar air collector and provides both electricity and heat.

More information: www.solarsen.com