A tiny home has inspired the New Zeland designers to be more effective and greener. Their idea on how to stay warm in winter using passive sources of heat is as simple as genial, Springwise reports.
New Zealand architects from Condon Scott Architects company have presented a tiny home that uses passive construction methods to supply heating. Thermal comfort remains a crucial aspect in the cool climate.
The house, dubbed the Kirimoko, has one bedroom and measures just 30 square meters. Rather tiny but extremely comfortable and easy to rule. The design concept came from the houses’ owners after they travelled on an extended bike trip and lived exclusively out of panniers.
This year, the NZ house has won several awards for its innovative approach to sustainability. A window on the home’s north side allows winter sunlight to stream in, helping to heat the house. In the summer, deep eaves help reduce overheating.
Despite its small space, the house packs in all of the essentials. Structural insulated panels (SIPs) were used for the roof and walls, chosen for their high insulation R-value and the convenience of prefabrication.
The architects used a combination of Passive House measures and structural insulated panels, virtually no additional energy is required to maintain a consistent level of thermal comfort against the backdrop of the unforgiving Central Otago climate.
Of course, the tiny houses are not for everyone but similar passive construction methods can help to keep heating costs low, Condon Scott Architects believes.
