3. Layout and massing

The project and its layout are studied taking into account the topological and environmental analysis of the site (slope of the land, curves, sun, masks, existing vegetation, winds, etc.), in order to determine the first choices of priorities and trade-offs, most often between energy savings and summer comfort.

The climatic conditions of a place can be catalogued as constraints to be protected against and advantages to be exploited. The aim of climatic architecture is to find a harmonious synthesis between the purpose of the building, the comfort of its occupants and the consideration of these conditions. It studies the interplay of buildings, zoning possibilities (thermal, acoustic, air quality, natural lighting), facade configurations and insulation.

The more difficult the site, the more the architectural design needs to take thermal and...