With climate change as one of the most pressing concerns in both the political and social spheres (we are responsible for the fact that the Earth's average temperature is now 1.1°C higher than at the end of the 19th century, according to the United Nations), bioclimatic architecture is gaining increasing importance (and followers) as a design strategy in the residential sector. This article summarizes what bioclimatic architecture is, its most important characteristics, and what a house needs to be bioclimatic.
Bioclimatic architecture: characteristics and examples
Also known as sustainable or ecological architecture, bioclimatic architecture not only considers climatic conditions in building design but also integrates environmental principles. Among its main strategies is optimizing sunlight and other renewable energy sources, such as wind, to reduce the need for heating or air conditioning, for example. In this sense, orientation is fundamental in bioclimatic architecture. Only in this way can all the sun's heat be captured in winter and exposure minimized in summer.
Using bioclimatic architectural principles, Vallribera Arquitectes designed this house on the outskirts of Barcelona. Photo: Architecture and Design.
Bioclimatic architecture seeks a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the surrounding landscape, incorporating natural elements—such as interior courtyards with plants or green roofs—which play a key role in the design of a bioclimatic home. Landscaping is also important. Native plants, which only require drip irrigation, should be chosen, and lawns should be avoided.
It is essential to develop construction systems that require fewer resources, both during construction and in the maintenance of a home. Buildings can be designed to generate less CO2 during construction, reduce the "ecological footprint" by considering the entire life cycle, and incorporate passive strategies that save energy and create optimal living conditions.
In this respect, natural ventilation is essential. Bioclimatic buildings are designed to promote cross-ventilation through the strategic placement of windows and other openings that take advantage of prevailing winds. Furthermore, the use of materials like stone helps to store heat during the day and release it slowly at night, stabilizing the temperature inside the house.
What does a house need to be bioclimatic?
Essentially, for a house to be bioclimatic, it must be well-oriented, maximizing sunlight exposure in winter and minimizing it in summer. Large windows or glass facades on the south side are crucial for capturing solar heat in winter, but overhangs, blinds, shutters, pergolas, and deciduous trees are also important for blocking excessive sunlight during the summer.
In addition, good insulation in the roof, floors, and walls is essential to prevent heat loss in winter. Install windows with thermal break technology to improve energy efficiency. Furthermore, a bioclimatic house should have cross ventilation and an insulating green roof.
There are three other important characteristics for a house to be bioclimatic and sustainable. First, the use of sustainable materials —that is, environmentally friendly and locally sourced materials—to minimize the ecological impact of construction as much as possible. Second, the use of home automation to optimize energy use. This includes programmable thermostats, energy management systems, and smart lighting controls. Finally, choosing energy-efficient appliances and lighting systems that minimize electricity consumption. In this regard, LED lights and Class A appliances are the best options.
