Twin Canopy Research Center

Two roofs, one system.

Conditioning System Hypothesis

A passive conditioning system has been proposed for the project in Woodland, Texas, tailored to meet the region’s specific climate conditions. This system leverages radiative sky cooling, desiccant dehumidification with solar-powered regeneration, and evapo-radiant panels to maximize efficiency. The evapo-radiant panels are designed to optimize evaporative cooling potential, ensuring that more heat are effectively dissipated before the air is exhausted from the system.
The system is seamlessly integrated into the roof structure to maximize exposure to both the sky and the sun, enabling optimal performance of radiative cooling and solar-driven components. This setup is designed to meet the cooling demands even during peak summer conditions. Additionally, a solar chimney is incorporated into the design to enhance displacement ventilation. By creating a natural stack effect, the solar chimney works in harmony with the passive conditioning system, promoting effective airflow and reducing the reliance on mechanical ventilation systems. Together, these integrated strategies provide a sustainable and efficient solution for maintaining indoor thermal comfort.

Assembly Optimization & Details

The structure has been passively optimized to evaluate and select the most suitable materials for the project, using output metrics such as carbon emissions, energy use intensity, and various occupant comfort indicators. The analysis concludes that mass timber is the ideal material for the project, aligning with the local practice of light timber frame construction.
Mass timber offers significant advantages for the climate conditions of Houston. It provides excellent thermal insulation, helping to regulate indoor temperatures, while also serving as an effective medium for moisture absorption, a critical factor in humid environments. This material choice not only enhances the building’s performance but also supports sustainable design goals by reducing embodied carbon and promoting the use of renewable resources.