Media

Modern Passive-Solar Design of Willow Bend Environmental Center

This is one of my favorite buildings because of how well—and how simply—it has been designed in relationship with the sun’s seasonally changing path in the sky. I’ve always found it to be very comfortable inside without any mechanical heating or cooling. The photos were taken at noon on the summer and winter solstice to illustrate how well the sun is harvested in winter, and shade is harvested in summer.

Sun- and Shade-Harvesting Mirror

These images illustrate how a mirror on hinges on the interior of my garottage’s west wall carries out multiple functions: letting us direct the winter sun where we want it, protecting books from sun bleaching, and doubling the view through the window in the adjoining south wall’s door, all while avoiding the unwanted heat gain that would result from a window installed facing the hot afternoon sun in the west. These photos were all taken within one minute of each other on a late morning in winter.

Ancient Passive-Solar Design

These photographs were taken at various ancient sites on the summer and winter solstices to illustrate these cultures’ wise use of passive-solar design and practice of solar rights.

Sun- & Shade-Harvesting Awning & Roof Overhang

This video highlights how properly designed roof overhangs and window awnings can provide free shade and cooling in the hot summer months, as well as maximizing sun exposure and free light and heating in the cold winter months.

How to Make Your Home & Neighborhood Greener, Cheaper, & More Comfortable!

Discover how to foster thriving urban spaces through practical strategies promoting affordable housing and strong community engagement. Learn how water-harvesting green infrastructure initiatives and passive sun and shade harvesting can contribute to sustainable living within the urban community, supported by effective local government policies. We’ll explore the role of community building in fostering resilient neighborhoods and rain-irrigated native food forests.

Winter Solstice Sun and Shadow Paths—Micro version

This video illustrates the sun’s path (and the shadows it casts) on the winter solstice—the day with the longest shadows of the year—for a site at 32˚ N latitude. Awareness of such shadow paths enables you to maintain winter sun access.