A greenhouse that starts with the sun — developed for Arctic conditions.
In development · a test site in Narsarsuaq is being planned
Let light in. Hold on to warmth.
Arctic ilua draws on principles from passive solar greenhouses in northern China: a transparent side facing the sun, an insulated rear and thermal mass that absorbs and releases heat. We investigate how these principles can be adapted to low sun angles, wind, snow and practical operation in the Arctic.
The aim is to support local cultivation with less added energy. The envelope, ventilation, materials and heat storage are developed as one system.
A platform that can adapt.
We explore repeatable building bays, different sizes and levels of climate control. The first step is a simple prototype for seasonal cultivation. Advanced heat storage and winter operation remain further development questions.
From model to physical trial.
The groundwork includes climate analyses, construction studies and investigations of light and heat. Next comes defining and reviewing the construction, testing critical joints and preparing the first physical trial. Final size, price and energy performance have not been established.
The greenhouse is one application. The principles may also inform other sheltered spaces between indoors and outdoors.
Horticulture in Narsarsuaq ↗ · Discuss the project ↗
Principle figures and background references
SVG · SVG — variant · Dark figure
