ABSTRACT
The 1 Greek narrative at the origin of this project reminds us that architectural aspirations for increased levels of dematerialization are not, by definition, unsustainable. Project Icarus demonstrates the environmental feasibility of implementing solar design principles and technologies, notwithstanding the desire for spatial and material transparency. The construction of a high-performance skin and the operation of a high-performance home can be achieved in the cunning embrace of design and building technologies that combine highly engineered materials (such as high-strength polymers and translucent insulation) with alternative assembly techniques (such as double-skin façades). The project whose construction is detailed in this chapter is a net-zero home whose roof was designed for light transmission, solar collection, thermal resistance, solar shading, power generation, water mitigation, rainwater collection and evaporative cooling, all of which were coordinated in one tectonic assembly designed for optimal performance.
