What is Sunspace in architecture?

A sunspace located or integrated along the solar façade of a building heats itself and adjacent spaces in winter. A sunspace is heated by direct sunlight with heat transferred to adjacent spaces through a common mass wall.

How does a Sunspace work?

Sunspaces incorporate thermal mass to absorb solar heat. Solar-heated air can then be used to heat the house, either passively through openings in the common wall or by blowing through ductwork into other parts of the house. This passive solar mountain home uses vertical glazing to collect the sun’s energy.

Whats a Sunspace?

A ‘Sunspace’ is a south-facing glazed area located outside of the main fabric envelope of the building. • The space naturally heats and cools allowing daytime temperatures to raise higher and night time temperatures to fall further than the ‘comfort zone’ temperatures of the adjoining living space(s).

What is direct gain?

‘Direct Gain’ is the most basic form of solar gain. Solar energy enters through south-facing glazing and is absorbed by thermal mass incorporated into the floor and walls. Heat is stored in the thermal mass during the day and later released during the night into the living space.

Which is the only MS degree in space architecture?

The Sasakawa International Center for Space Architecture (SICSA) is a unique interdisciplinary research, design and teaching academic center that supports the world’s only Master of Science (MS) degree in Space Architecture.

How are Sunspaces used in passive solar design?

Passive solar design: Sunspaces • A ‘Sunspace’ is a south-facing glazed area located outside of the main fabric envelope of the building. • The space naturally heats and cools allowing daytime temperatures to raise higher and night time temperatures to fall further than the ‘comfort zone’ temperatures of the adjoining living space(s).

Which is the best description of a sunspace?

A sunspace is a room which is designed to collect sunlight and heat. Sunspaces are also known as solar rooms, solars, solariums, and sunrooms, and they are classically included in the designs of homes, although commercial structures can have sunspaces as well.

How much space does a sunspace add to a building?

This can amount to around 30% when compared with a direct gain equivalent (1), though this varies according to climate and latitude where buildings benefit from southern locations. • Though unheated, sunspaces can provide additional living space when natural conditions make them comfortable.