Design Strategies for Climatic Region


Climate Zone Map Ref.

 Cool Climate:
  • use compact forms with the smallest surface area possible relative to the volume
  • use large south-facing windows with small windows on the east and west and with minimal or no windows on the north
  • use interior materials with high thermal mass
  • include summer shading for glazed areas
  • use dark or medium-dark colors for the building exterior


Temperate Climates:
  • plan rectangular buildings with long direction oriented east-west axis and facing slightly to the east
  • provide shade in the summer, and allow the sun to fall on glazing and the building in the winter
  • use south facing opening to capture winter sun light
  • plan for cooling effects of wind in the summer, block wind in the winter
  • use medium colors for the building exterior


Hot-Humid Climates:
  • provide shade for all openings
  • maximize natural ventilation with large opening, high ceilings, and cross ventilation
  • construct buildings using light materials; minimize thermal mass
  • use light colors for the building exterior


Hot-Arid Climates:
  • use compact forms with the smallest surface area possible relative to the volume
  • minimize opening sizes
  • provide shade for openings
  • maximize thermal mass
  • use light colors for the building exterior


References:

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