Thermal efficiency would be a major factor going into the design of the house. Switching on the AC would be the last option. I have to explore ideas on naturally cooling the house, higher ceiling, positioning of the vents etc.
We have 2 main seasons, Summer where the main concern is heat and rainy where humidity is the culprit. So the house should be able to deal with these two conditions. Winter is not particularly cold so no problems there.
Shady trees around the house, for sure. So the two that are in front will be there.
But we dont have much space left in the current plot, to plant more trees :(. 2400 sq ft is not a big plot anyway, but then I dont want a house where we will get lost, I would like everyone to be within reach in that space, yet have their individual space if required.
Higher ceiling is a good idea, gives a more open, more liveable space and hot air settles at the top, but my concern then shifts to energy bills. WHen using an Ac becomes imperative, it would mean more air to be cooled, I want the maintenance aspect of the house to be as minimal as possible through design and passive structures.
I can have some kind of shade on the terrace, so the top floor remains somewhat sheltered from the sun and cool. But only from the top not enclosure type on all four sides. The structure to put on the shade needs to be such that it doesnt hamper the openness of the terrace. It ought to be easily manageable, to cover or remove it when ever required. I should be able to do star gazing !.
Still I need to explore a bit more on traditional and natural methods of cooling.
The other aspect of energy efficiency is lighting. CFLs are more energy efficient is something which is there at the back of my mind, When I explore more on my lighting ideas, I will keep that in mind.
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