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10. The sketch shows the proposed design for a dwelling house in a rural setting - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 10 - 2021
Question 10
10. The sketch shows the proposed design for a dwelling house in a rural setting. The design is inspired by vernacular Irish architecture. (a) Discuss two reasons w... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:10. The sketch shows the proposed design for a dwelling house in a rural setting - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 10 - 2021
Step 1
Discuss two reasons why solar overheating may occur in the house shown and two effects solar overheating may have on its occupants.
Answer
Solar overheating may occur due to:
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Poor design and orientation: If the house is designed without considering the sun's path, large windows may allow excessive sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, leading to high indoor temperatures.
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Insufficient shading: If there are no adequate overhangs or shading devices, direct sunlight can enter through windows, resulting in thermal discomfort.
Effects on occupants include:
- Health risks: Prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures can lead to heat stress or dehydration, especially in vulnerable individuals like children and the elderly.
- Increased energy use: The necessity for cooling systems like air conditioning to combat overheating can lead to increased energy bills and environmental impact.
Step 2
Using notes and freehand sketches, suggest two ways to reduce the possibility of solar overheating while being sympathetic to the design of this house.
Answer
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Incorporate Thermal Mass: Utilize materials that absorb heat during the day and release it at night, such as stone or concrete. This helps moderate indoor temperatures by smoothing out temperature fluctuations.
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Implement Shading Devices: Design external shading elements like awnings or pergolas to block direct sunlight during peak hours while allowing natural light in during cooler times.
Step 3
Using notes and freehand sketches, discuss two features of the given house design that contribute to the house responding to its rural setting.
Answer
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Traditional Roof Shape: The roof design is reminiscent of local agricultural buildings, helping the house blend into its rural context while providing effective rainwater drainage.
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Natural Material Finishes: The use of materials like timber or stone for external finishes connects the house visually and physically to the surrounding landscape, maintaining the vernacular architecture.