Pink Pergola: Passive Cooling as Architectural Design
In Sintra, Portugal, Atelier RUA's Casa Galamares showcases the concept of passive solar shading as a primary architectural element rather than an additional feature. This striking house, adorned with blush ceramic tiles, features a tubular steel pergola equipped with adjustable reed screens and textile shade sails, facilitating a natural cooling system. The pergola, designed from the beginning, is oriented towards the east, south, and west, and is painted to harmonize with the cladding for a cohesive look. It effectively minimizes heat gain instead of relying on post-construction cooling. The interplay between the courtyard and pergola creates a vertical passive system, enhancing airflow and preventing overheating. Utilizing high thermal mass materials like ceramic tile and concrete, the design buffers temperature fluctuations. Casa Galamares illustrates that effective strategies for adapting to a warmer climate can align with excellent architectural practices.
Key facts
- Casa Galamares is located in Sintra, Portugal.
- The house is clad in blush ceramic tile.
- The pergola is made of tubular steel painted to match the tile.
- Shading elements include roll-up reed screens and tensioned textile sails.
- The pergola is oriented east, south, and west.
- The courtyard and pergola form a vertical passive cooling system.
- High thermal mass materials include ceramic tile and concrete.
- The design is intended to be transferable to other warm climates.
Entities
Artists
- atelier RUA
Locations
- Sintra
- Portugal
- Pena Palace
- Monserrate Palace
- Iberian Peninsula