Passive design approach and principles

Passive design is an approach to building design that utilises the building to minimise energy consumption. Building layout and orientation can have a major impact on energy efficiencies. The orientation of structures on site is critical for efficiency as are the placement of window openings with major glazed areas facing south to take advantage of solar heat gain in winter months when the sun sets lower. New development should make greater use of its immediate context and adapt to its local climate with the aim of minimising overall running costs and any impact on the environment. For this to be achieved development should consider; • The layout and aspect of internal spaces. • Insulation of the building envelope and thermal mass. • Management of solar gain. • Natural ventilation. • Construction techniques and materials.