The University of Tennessee
Living Light: UT Solar Decathlon House
Living Light incorporates the knowledge of Tennesseans past and present. Although its forms and spaces are inspired by the cantilever barns of southern Appalachia, the systems in its dynamic façade and integrated roof array are scalable and tunable to a range of climates and applications.
Design Philosophy
Tennessee seeks to apply global technologies to local contexts. To find the most refined aesthetic expression of these technologies, the team integrated multiple complex systems into relatively few architectural elements. Living Light uses passive systems where appropriate and active systems where necessary. The team also used off-the-shelf technologies in innovative ways to meet the needs of today's homeowner.
Features
- The dynamic double façade system is made of alternating translucent and transparent panes and horizontal blinds.
- Sensors automatically manage the electric lighting, which includes color-changing LED strip lights along the façade.
- The home automation system can be programmed with preferred conditions for activities such as watching a movie or entertaining dinner guests.
Technologies
- The blind system, sandwiched between two panes of glass, is programmed to provide year-round lighting and shading.
- An energy recovery ventilator harvests air through the double façade system to supply the house with passively warmed or cooled fresh air.
- Cylindrical modules in the 10.9-kW photovoltaic array capture sunlight across a 360° surface.
Market Strategy
Living Light is designed to attract emerging young professionals with an average income of $100,000 working in the vibrant design, science, and technology industries of Nashville, Tennessee. For this clientele, technical systems are not hidden but embraced as aesthetic features in a contemporary design.
What's Next
Living Light will tour Tennessee to demonstrate energy efficiency and other technologies to the public. The team will then use the house as a laboratory for collecting data, analyzing energy efficiency, and testing new technologies.
