The principles of bio-climatic architecture, when applied with an understanding of the surrounding climate and geography, can simultaneously increase a building's efficiency and create a more comfortable living space. Passive measures like solar panels, rainwater and grey water harvesting, openings for natural light, and cross-ventilation are all low-cost, high yield methods of increasing a home's thermal comfort and efficiency and decreasing its carbon footprint.
As explained by Estudio Borrachia in their memoir on Casa Holmberg, "cross-ventilation systems, sunshades, and insulation work together perfectly without the need to use artificial heating and air. Solar panels heat water without needing to be connected to the electrical grid."
