Florida International University
perFORM[D]ance House
![Illustration of the perFORM[D]ance House in West Potomac Park in Washington, D.C. People mill about outside. In the distance is the Washington Monument and Jefferson Memorial.](/images/fiu_rendering.jpg)
The perFORM[D]ance House responds to its environment, its inhabitants, and its use. Its open pavilion links the interior and exterior, and louver panels open to extend the livable space outdoors. The ever-changing configuration is driven by environmental conditions, resulting in an interactive performance that showcases sustainable strategies and technologies.
Design Philosophy
perFORM[D]ance House incorporates lightness and open spatial continuity as well as key elements of tropical design, including louvers, a continuous flat roof, and an expansive horizontality.
Features
- Operable louvers raise and lower as needed for privacy, shading, and protection against hurricane-force winds.
- A fully retractable glazing system on the windows provides relief from the heat and humidity of South Florida.
- The deck contains a garden and biofiltration pond.
- Bio-remediating beds treat storm-water runoff collected from the roof using native landscaping that filters sediment, reduces runoff, and oxygenates water.
Technologies
- Passive design strategies such as natural cross-ventilation, canopy shade devices, and daylighting reduce demand on mechanical systems.
- A ductless air conditioning system uses micro-climate zoning to increase comfort while decreasing load.
- Sensors, timers, and remote controls provide system automation that increases efficiency and reduces operation and maintenance costs.
- A weather station with monitoring capabilities allows homeowners to monitor energy production and use, solar panel performance, and water consumption.
- A reflective white exterior reduces cooling demand.
Market Strategy
The perFORM[D]ance House was designed for a Hispanic-American couple whose children are off in college. These empty-nesters have always wanted to retire to the sunny, subtropical climate of Miami, Florida.
What's Next
After Solar Decathlon 2011, the house will be installed on the Modesto A. Maidique Campus of Florida International University in Miami, where it will support the university's Office of Sustainability as a visitor center pavilion.
