Maison Bioclimatique

Architect: Patrice Bideau

Location: Brittany, France

Photography: Armel Istin

This house was built using organic architectural principles and green energy components. The result was maximum efficiency using the minimum of technical elements. It is sited in an area with an oceanic climate, so a garden was designed protect the house from the westerly winds, and a separate vegetable garden was created on the east side. The roof is clad with 12 in. (300 mm) of Rockwool insulation.

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An arbor connects the kitchen to the terrace and is a winter garden in cold weather. The roof is made of polycarbonate.

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The wrought iron of the table and chairs takes second place to the beauty and originality of the colorful mosaics that cover them. These can be made by hand and at home.

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The bottom of the natural pools is gravel or clay, and aquatic plants are used to clean the water instead of chemicals.