Use overhangs to block high summer sun and heat gain, then allow low winter sun to penetrate and strike masonry floors and walls for thermal storage.

Orient building to protect entries and outdoor spaces from prevailing winds.

Utilize wind for summer cooling; orient small aperature windows to prevailing wind to create a venturi effect. Awning windows can be left open throughout the day, protecting the opening if it rains.

Roof design should respond to local snow conditions. Shed snow away from entries by locating them on gable ends. Steeply pitched metal roofs shed snow more readily. Beware of north-facing roof valleys which can cause ice dams.

1.1 Inhabit the Site

1.3 Western Views

1.5 South Facing Outdoors

1.6 Sheltering Roof

1.9 Capturing Light

1.10 Compose with Materials

1.12 Functional Landscaping

Choose exterior cladding materials which resist UV degradation and require minimal maintenance, such as stucco, stone, cementious siding and engineered trim, masonry, steel, aluminum clad windows, fiberglass doors, and composite material decking.