Sun Rhythm Form - Hardcover

Knowles, Ralph L

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0262110784 ISBN 13: 9780262110785

Publisher: MIT Press, 1981

While solar technology for individual buildings has become an accepted part of architectural design, Knowles takes the next innovative step. In this book, he proposes solar access in urban environments with a novel design method called the "solar envelope."

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About the Author:

Ralph L. Knowles is Professor of Architecture, University of Southern California, Los Angeles.

Review:

Simply stated, Sun Rhythm Form is about solar access and the right to energy and light from the sun. Several aspects, however, differentiate this work from previous studies. First and foremost is Knowles's conceptual approach which is concerned with the protection of communal rights and individual choice.... The method used in Sun Rhythm Form to insure access is also different from other studies, since it begins with the site rather than with the parcels abutting the site. The process employs a highly descriptive geometry which generates a solar envelope. This envelope describes the volume within which a site may be developed without infringing upon the solar access of the adjacent parcels. From a designer's viewpoint, the development of the process represents an excellent example of visual thinking and graphic problem-solving. More important is how the process recognizes and clearly articulates the spatial and temporal nature of designing for solar access.... Sun Rhythm Form is a highly valuable and interesting study with immediate application to persons concerned with landuse policy and design.

(Landscape Journal)

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