(pronounced PA-siv SO-lehr HEE-ting / KU-ling)

A strategy by which designers of homes and buildings take advantage of nature, allowing the sun’s energy to heat and cool structures effectively and efficiently. If designed well, a structure’s energy consumption and environmental impact can both be dramatically reduced. Passive designs require the thoughtful integration of a building’s elements and their respective materials – i.e., roof, windows, floors, and walls – all of which work together to collect, store, release, and distribute heat within the system. These passive elements operate in tandem with a standard mechanical system, which then can be reduced in size.