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HIGH PERFORMANCE BUILDING DESIGNFallingwater- Optimize natural ventilation effectiveness
Hood River Library- Virtual concept validation
Building ventilation is enhanced with the combined use of thermal stack effect and wind forces. Operable windows allow cooler outside air to enter the building at the occupied level, and multiple high point openings allow hot air to escape, creating a continuous flow of fresh air through the building. When the prevailing summer wind is blowing from the west, openings on the leeward side of the ridge monitor lie in a low pressure region created by the wind flow around the building. Building air is thus drawn through these high openings, being ‘pulled’ out by the wind forces, increasing ventilation.
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The thermal performance of this architectural masterpiece was studied with airflow modeling. With the house operated as a museum, visitors often complained about the excessive temperatures in certain areas of the house, particularly the second floor guestroom. Airflow modeling determined optimum configuration of open doors, windows, and the long forgotten bathroom monitor window, to increase ventilation and decrease temperature hot spots.
