Checkerboard Solar-Clad Housing Project Pops Up in Paris

A new and innovative social housing building covered with solar panels recently popped up in <a href="http://inhabitat.com/recycled-potogreen-planters-disguise-parisian-parking-poles-as-mini-gardens/" target="_blank">Paris</a> near the Barbes metro station. Designed by French team <a href="http://www.ponka.fr/" target="_blank">Philippon-Kalt Architects</a>, the project features a grid-like glass façade that has been fitted with energy-generating <a href="http://inhabitat.com/solar-roadways-unveils-plans-for-energy-generating-parking-lots-nationwide-solar-network/" target="_blank">solar panels</a>. Located in the 19th Arrondissement, the building is the first of its kind in the public housing sector.

The building provides spacious apartments for low income needs. The checkerboard-style façade faces Rue La Chapelle, and each unit on this side has a private balcony with floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that flood the interior with natural lighting.

Double-skin tinted <a href="http://inhabitat.com/planetsolar-the-worlds-largest-solar-powered-boat-docks-in-hong-kong/" target="_blank">solar panels</a> are installed in an asymmetrical pattern, with the dual function of providing privacy and shade for the balconies.

The apartments vary in size, as does the size of the balconies. A nearby Skytrain operates nearby several times a day, so the tinted panels not only obscure views into the apartments, but also filter and reduce noise from the train.

The tinted <a href="http://inhabitat.com/massive-550-megawatt-riverside-solar-project-to-be-built-in-the-californian-desert/" target="_blank">solar panels</a> soak up the sun’s rays, generating around 40% of the energy needed to heat water for the residents.

A control system was installed to monitor and regulate <a href="http://inhabitat.com/net-zero-savannah-ihouse-opens-for-tours-at-green-bridge-farm/" target="_blank">solar water heating</a> for the building. Ample parking is located on the ground floor of the building, and an open-air balcony sits on the top floor.

Combining public housing with <a href="http://inhabitat.com/texcoco-lake-ecological-park-a-vast-green-space-for-mexico-city-that-is-41-times-larger-than-central-park/" target="_blank">renewable energy</a> is an important approach that will hopefully take root. Residents can save on their monthly utility bills while conserving energy and living an eco-conscious lifestyle.