Solar Decathlon 2011
TRTL – Technological Residence, Traditional Living
TRTL, Canada's entry for the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, is a unique response to the culture of Treaty 7 Native Peoples in Southern Alberta. Inspired by the tipi, the house's rounded form, east-facing entrance, and south-facing windows relate to the sun as a traditional source of energy and life. The two-bedroom, open-concept design is flexible and includes ample space for storage, recreation, and communal gatherings for meals.
Design Philosophy
Canada's design integrates technology and tradition. From a technological perspective, green building materials and renewable energy technologies result in a house that is healthy, safe, durable, and affordable. From a traditional perspective, the design is guided by a holistic view of the home as a living part of a greater natural order. The result is TRTL (Technological Residence, Traditional Living), a house that respects the value of culture in promoting sustainability.
Features
TRTL extends beyond its Treaty 7 partners to address issues faced by many native groups in Canada. Its features include:
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Materials and color palettes that reflect customary art and the natural environment
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Magnesium oxide-based structural insulated panels that are highly resistant to fire and mold
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An 8.3-kW photovoltaic system engineered for high performance in Alberta's harsh winter climate.
Technologies
Canada incorporates innovative technologies into its traditional house, including:
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A highly effective air-to-water heat pump used for space conditioning and hot water production
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A photovoltaic system that operates at 93% of its optimal efficiency and has a rounded form that responds to the cultural desires of the client
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A sophisticated control system that allows for monitoring and long-term optimization.
Market Strategy
There are more than 600 native groups in Canada, totaling more than 1.1 million people. Housing failures within and beyond Treaty 7 include sub-standard design, implementation, and maintenance as well as demand that far exceeds supply. The collaborative design, validation, and cross-cultural dialogue employed in the creation of TRTL provide a model for affecting positive change.
Contact
Johann Kyser
Professional Faculties Building
University of Calgary
2500 University Drive NW
Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 1N4
Phone: 403-617-2731