The Sun House: A Beacon of Sustainable Architecture

Award-Winning Design by Po Wen Cheng Marries Technology and Nature

The Sun House, located in Chiayi County, Taiwan, is an embodiment of organic architecture, drawing inspiration from nature and the concept of regeneration. The design features a unique combination of solar panels on the roof and exterior walls, with interiors largely made of recycled cypress timbers. This blend of natural and technological elements is a key strength of the design, setting it apart from conventional architectural designs.

Cheng's design does not merely incorporate sustainable elements; it actively leverages them to create a self-sufficient living space. The Sun House features various energy circulation systems and cutting-edge equipment, putting energy storage and circulation into practice. The house is equipped with a heat pump system to regulate temperature, and an outdoor water collection area collects and stores rainwater for garden use, demonstrating a practical application of sustainable design principles.

The Sun House is not just a marvel of sustainable design; it is also a feat of engineering. The design team faced the challenge of using up to 90% recycled materials in the interior, a task that required four years of collecting discarded cypress timber. The team transformed these materials into ceilings, flooring, furniture, partitions, and wall decorations, breathing new life into each piece and giving it a new value in the space.

The project, which started in January 2015 and was completed in February 2020, is a testament to the power of sustainable design. The Sun House's unique properties, such as its ability to reduce solar radiation heat by 40% and make the indoor temperature 3 degrees cooler than normal houses, demonstrate the potential of sustainable design in creating comfortable, energy-efficient living spaces.

In conclusion, The Sun House by Po Wen Cheng is a shining example of sustainable architecture, demonstrating how design can harmoniously blend with nature to create self-sufficient, comfortable living spaces. The project's success, as evidenced by its Golden A' Sustainable Products, Projects and Green Design Award, is a testament to the power and potential of sustainable design in shaping our future living environments.