Solar Phase-Change Dog House
Lightweight with phase change materials, a solar dog house made my Davis Partnerships Architects and the RMH Group.
Accompanying the 2017 Solar Decathlon was the Sustainable BARKitecture Dog House Competition, a challenge to local Denver architecture firms to design and build the ideal solar dog house.
The homes were built for a specific Canine Airport Therapy dog and were on display at the Denver International Airport through Oct. 9th, 2017. The homes were sold in an online auction to benefit the Dumb Friends League.
SUSTAINABILITY INNOVATION:
Oreo’s new dog house is constructed of ultra-lightweight, rot-resistant, locally assembled panels made of sustainable materials. The exterior is clad in locally fabricated metal panels with a fire resistant roof made from the same material, and includes insulated glass vision panels to capture the available winter sun. The use of “phase change” materials (materials that change from solid to gel at designated target temperatures) actively absorb or release heat to maintain a consistently comfortable temperature for Oreo. The phase change system works in conjunction with solar powered fan and dampers to provide cooling and heating as needed.INSPIRED BY:
DEN Canine Airport Therapy Squad dog, Oreo, a Saint Bernard/standard poodle mix who likes hot dogs and rolling in the snow.
DESIGN CONCEPT:
To take advantage of Colorado’s abundant sunshine and cool nights and incorporate sustainable materials, systems are used that are compatible with Colorado’s unique climate. The integration of technology provides a self-sustaining dwelling for Oreo that is comfortable year round.Illuminated red and blue lights on the interior alert Oreo’s owner that interior temperatures are either too hot or too cold. A float switch with an exterior hose connection will keep Oreo’s water bowl full with fresh water.
Design: Davis Partnership Architects http://davispartnership.com & The RMH Group http://www.rmhgroup.com
Construction:
Fransen Pittman General Contractors http://www.fransenpittman.com
Learn more about the Canine Airport Therapy Squad.
