The diagrams illustrate key design principles for houses in cool and warm climates.
Overall, the primary differences between the designs lie in the roof structure, insulation placement, and material usage. For warm climates, the house design adapts based on the time of day, whereas the cool climate house has a single structure aimed at retaining heat.
In cool climates, the house features a high-angled roof that allows maximum sunlight to enter, enhancing internal heat storage. Thermal building materials are used to retain warmth, while insulation is applied inside the walls to reduce heat loss. The window placement also allows sunlight to directly warm the house.
In contrast, the warm climate house has two operational modes. During the day, it uses reflective roof materials and external insulation to minimize heat absorption. Roof overhangs provide shade, and windows are closed to block heat. At night, windows are opened to allow cross-ventilation, which helps to remove stored heat and cool down the interior.