| In the years before the advent of central heating and cooling, if Texans
wanted to be as thermally comfortable as possible they had to build structures
which responded to the climate. Modern dependence on electricity and artificial
means of heating and cooling have led to insensitive design based more
on style and aesthetics than on honest, sensible, climate-responsive design
(which doesn't preclude being stylish and beautiful). Historically, a building's
siting (placement on the site), orientation (which cardinal direction it
faces), configuration (shape), and materials were typically a reflection
of the climate in which it was located.
While only a few brave souls in Central Texas today dare plan a home without central heat and air (it is possible!), there are many lessons from the past that can be applied to the way we design and build which will make our homes and workplaces more thermally comfortable, energy efficient, environmentally responsible and regionally appropriate. Jim Steely will show us examples of how early Texans designed their buildings to cope with the varying Texas climate and available materials. We will learn about the various mechanisms our predecessors so wisely used to achieve comfort and beauty with the materials and conditions at hand. |
Jim Steely knows Texas. He is a sixth-generation Texan raised in a
newspaper publishing family; educated in photojournalism, history and architectural
history; and well traveled throughout the Lone Star State. His recently
completed book, Parks for Texas, Enduring Landscapes of the New Deal, reflects
Jim's passion for and understanding of Texas buildings, climate, materials,
people, politics and culture.
Resources
Perspectives, published by the Vernacular Architectural Forum - Available at the University of Texas Architecture Library, Battle Hall. Landscape - A rich periodical by J.B. Jackson in the 1970's - Available
at the University of Texas Architecture Library, Battle Hall.
|
Announcements
| Straw Bale Association Home Tour
On Saturday, June 26, 1999 the Straw Bale Association of Texas will be sponsoring a tour of seven straw bale buildings in the Austin and Dripping Springs area. The six residences and one commercial building represent a range of budgets and building styles. Some were owner-built and financed, others were contractor-built and bank-financed. Some are supported by post and beam structures and others are "Nebraska style", where the straw walls bear the load of the roof. Most of the buildings are finished but a couple are in semi-completed states. This will be a scheduled tour, not all-day open houses. Because of limited parking at some of the sites, the number of cars will be limited. The tour will assemble at 8:30 A.M. at the parking lot of the former Terrace night club at 200 Academy (just east of South Congress, a little south of Town Lake). There, participants will pay their registration fees, get tour brochures and consolidate into car pools. Fees for the tour are $5 per person for Straw Bale Association members and $10 per person for the general public. Participants are encouraged to bring bag lunches since no lunch stops are scheduled. For more information on the tour, call Ric Sternberg, at 512-250-5535. To get information about the Straw Bale Association or to join the association, call the SBAT voice mail at 512-302-6766. Feature Articles/Business Profiles
Gayle Borst and Elliot Johnson have been pursuing a relationship with Walter Brewer, Austin American Statesman, to publish articles on sustainability in the Sunday Homes Section. We would like to extend an invitation to SBC members interested in writing on sustainable issues (mostly related to Home building) to co-author articles on their area of interest. Topics would have to be approved and there is no guaranty that they would be published. It is really a great opportunity to help educate and inform the public on sustainable issues. Call or e-mail Elliot Johnson 282-3359. |
C.O.A. Green Building Seminars
11:30-1:30 open to Green Building members. Call ahead to Mary at the City of Austin 499-3541. July 15 What’s New in Active Solar Technology
If you are involved in Green Building and are not yet a member, consider becoming one. They offer great opportunities for continued education, and for promoting your business. Workshops and Events Of Interest
Colorado Natural Building Workshop 1999
Green Building Task Force
The Austin City Council has approved the formation of a Green Building Task Force, charged with making recommendations to the City Council for means to increase the implementation of sustainable design and building practices in Austin. SBC members appointed to the task force include Jim Walker, Gayle Borst and Peter Pfieffer. Meetings are open to the public. Contact Marc Richmond-Powers of the Green Building Program (512-499-3029) for further information. |