Art Deco style house designs allow for some flexibility when it comes to incorporating passive elements. Passive houses are those that use natural techniques to remain comfortable temperatures and services without the use of active heating and cooling systems. Features such as proper orientation, insulation, glazing, thermal mass, nighttime purging, and natural ventilation are some passive design strategies employed in Art Deco style dwellings. Such approaches drastically reduce the need for mechanical systems, resulting in an energy-efficient home. Adding a concrete floor or wall made with exposed brick, stucco, or terra cotta can also add thermal mass to the home to further increase energy savings.Passive House Designs
Net-zero house designs strive for a zero net energy situation by producing the same amount of energy that is used within the home. This is achieved through an array of energy-saving features such as high-performance insulation, duct leakage prevention, air sealing, high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, LED bulbs, and smart appliances. For a further net-zero energy effect, one should consider installing solar panels or wind turbines. There are also net-zero water systems for homes that use wastewater recycling, rainwater harvesting, and greywater reuse.Net-Zero House Designs
A key part of Art Deco house designs is the integration of green roofs which are roofs covered in vegetation. Not only can green roofs aesthetically enhance the façade of the building, but they also significantly reduce energy consumption by absorbing heat and protecting the roof from ultraviolet radiation. A green roof also keeps the inside of the house cooler by providing an additional layer of insulation. Moreover, a green roof provides an area for wildlife and vegetation to thrive.Green Roof House Designs
The incorporation of solar panels into Art Deco house designs allows for a source of renewable energy. Not only do these systems generate solar power, but they also reduce the need for other forms of energy, resulting in lower utility bills. Solar panels will also increase the property value of the home. Besides the obvious benefits, solar panels can also be aesthetically pleasing, with some designs allowing them to be as a part of the façade.Solar-Powered House Designs
Making a house energy-efficient doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive. Insulating walls and ceilings, replacing old windows with high-efficiency glass, and utilizing high-performance appliances can all help reduce energy loss in the home. The use of eco-friendly materials such as recycled materials and sustainably sourced timber can further boost the home's energy savings. Other strategies to reduce energy consumption include the installation of a programmable thermostat, LED light bulbs, and water-efficient fixtures. Energy Efficient House Designs
Insulation is essential in determined the level of thermal insulation in a building. The level of insulation for an Art Deco house depends on various factors such as location, budget, and climate. The type of insulation to use should also be considered, as each material offers unique benefits. Cellulose, fiberglass, and foam, for example, are all good materials to consider when it comes to insulation. Insulation can be added around exterior walls, floors, attics, and roofs to increase energy efficiency.Optimized Insulation House Designs
An off-the-grid house design refers to a dwelling that is completely independent from the power grid. This allows homeowners to generate their own electricity through renewable energy sources such as the sun, wind, and water. Other advantages of an off-the-grid home include lower energy costs, improved efficiency, and reliability. When incorporating off-grid technologies into Art Deco style designs, one should consider items such as photovoltaic systems, battery banks, power inverters, and charge controllers.Off-the-Grid House Designs
Harnessing the ground temperature of the earth for heating and cooling needs is one of the most efficient methods to reduce the amount of energy needed for a home. Geothermal energy is an economical and renewable source of energy, and when used in conjunction with traditional HVAC systems, it can help significantly reduce the amount of energy consumption. Geothermal heating and cooling systems are typically installed along with pumps, wells, and pipes which are installed in the earth, allowing for the transfer of thermal energy.Geothermal House Designs
Rainwater Collection is an essential part of Art Deco house designs as it allows homeowners to conserve and reuse water. This water can be used for landscaping, washing, and other sanitary needs. Rainwater harvesting systems can be installed in many ways, including direct to ground systems, barrels, and tanks. The process begins with collecting water from rooftops, followed by filtration and storage. After that, the water is available for use throughout the home.Rainwater Collection House Designs
By incorporating natural ventilation techniques into Art Deco buildings, air quality can be improved significantly. Natural ventilation reduces energy consumption while utilizing outside air to create a comfortable indoor environment. This is achieved through the use of operable windows, skylights, and doors. If done correctly, natural ventilation systems can improve the indoor air quality and reduce the need for mechanical cooling and heating.Natural Ventilation House Designs
The goal of a zero-waste house is to reduce the amount of waste produced and sent to the landfill. This can be achieved by utilizing certain Art Deco designs that focus on recycling, reducing energy usage, and composting. Over time, homeowners can drastically reduce the amount of waste they produce, and this will significantly reduce the amount of energy, water, and resources consumed as well.Zero Waste House Designs