The diagram illustrates how architectural design can be used to control indoor temperature both in cold and hot climate.
Overall, the house in colder regions is built to capture and retain heat, whereas the hot-climate house relies on a combination of heat reflection during the daytime and active ventilation at night to stay cool.
In colder environments, the house is constructed with a high-angled roof and a window specifically positioned to face the sun, letting the sunlight to enter directly. The walls are made of thermal building material that absorbs heat and a layer of external insulation is applied to prevent this warmth from escaping back outside.
Conversely, the hot-climate house focuses on blocking sunlight during the day before releasing it at night. This design includes a reflective roof material that bounces sunlight away and additional insulation in the roof deflects heat away. The two windows set on opposite sides are closed and covered. During night time, however, these windows are opened wide, allowing a cross-breeze to carry stored heat out of the living space.
