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North Face by nodo17 group, Madrid passive solar architecture, recycled granite in house, passive solar architecture in Spain, naturally cooled homes

Though the home is named North Face after its north-facing and centrally located recycled granite wall, the house was carefully oriented to maximize southern orientation. Placed close to the property boundary, the granite wall curves away from the neighboring busy road to shelter a spacious south-facing inner courtyard planted with vines, ficus, and palms. To maximize views of the landscape—both of the inner courtyard and the surrounding environment—the building is fragmented into divided but connected housing volumes.

North Face by nodo17 group, Madrid passive solar architecture, recycled granite in house, passive solar architecture in Spain, naturally cooled homes

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The architects’ emphasis on south orientation for the entire home and adherence to strict guidelines minimize North Face’s energy consumption. Overhanging eaves and deciduous trees protect the home from unwanted solar gain in the summer, while allowing winter sunlight in. Strategically placed openings allow for cross ventilation.

+ nodo17 group

Images via nodo17 group