UC Solar Decathlon solar.uc.edu

Design Development

[RE]CAP

features

The [re]form house incorporates a variety of solar collection and efficient heating/cooling methods such as solar panels, evacuated hot water tubes, an absorption chiller, the trough, outdoor rooms and low energy systems. These technologies have become the primary features of the house, which are integrated and celebrated in the architectural design.


[RE]DISTRIBUTE

trough

One primary strategy is the introduction of a large collection box at the base of the PV laden roof. This trough collects and distributes water to the east and electricity to the west. We cover the wide collection trough with a grate that we use as scaffolding to access the PV panels. The assembly provides a level, safe platform for installing and maintaining the PV-covered portion of the roof. Furthermore, the low pitch of the roof provides an inherently safe environment for servicing the array.


[RE]DESIGN

floor plan 1
floor plan 2

Multiple iterations of the interior layout where explored before deciding on the final design. Design criteria included tyring to incorporate the concept of flexible spaces that could be transformed based on space needs and lifestyle, and open spaces with integrated furniture to increase the feel of the small square footage.

[RE]VIEW

interior view
porch view

Images throughout the house at various stages of the design.