Spring is here and growing up in North Central Washington, I never thought much about how our weather extremes influenced building design. However, after experiencing summer temperatures nearing 120°F, winters plunging to -20°F, and record-breaking snowfall (nearly four feet in just two days in 2022), I’ve come to appreciate the importance of designing buildings that can withstand these challenges.
Despite the extreme temperatures, our climate is relatively dry, with minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine. As an architect working in this region, I’ve developed a set of design principles that integrate functionality with aesthetic appeal. Below are key considerations for building in this environment.
Key Design Considerations
Human Comfort – Ensuring year-round livability through thoughtful heating and cooling solutions.
Heating & Cooling – Designing to mitigate heat in summer and retain warmth in winter.
Building Maintenance – Selecting materials and layouts that minimize long-term upkeep.
Structural Integrity – Ensuring durability against snow loads, wind, and temperature fluctuations.
Building Shape & Orientation – Optimizing the form of structures for energy efficiency and weather resilience.
Roof Design: A Functional and Aesthetic Element
One of the most defining aspects of modFORM projects is the use of shed roofs. While they offer a modern aesthetic, their real value lies in their functionality.
Sun Protection
Given NCW’s intense sunshine, controlling heat gain is critical. Shed roofs with long overhangs help shade windows, reducing interior temperatures and cooling costs. These overhangs also create comfortable outdoor spaces by shading patios and decks.
Weather Protection for Inhabitants
Rain Protection – While rainfall is minimal, well-designed overhangs prevent water from dripping onto entryways and walkways.
Snow Management – Snow accumulation on roofs is a major concern. There’s debate over whether to let snow slide off or keep it on the roof using snow brakes (metal bars that hold snow in place). Retaining snow can provide insulation, a technique widely used in European alpine architecture.
Preferred Approach – The modFORM practice favors low-pitched shed roofs with standing seam metal and strategically placed snow brakes. Roof slopes should direct snow away from high-traffic areas like entrances and driveways, minimizing snow removal efforts.
Weather Protection for the Structure
Preventing Snow Stacking Against Siding – Snow will inevitably slide off the roof. To prevent accumulation against walls:
Extend overhangs to drop snow farther from the building.
Use durable materials like concrete or metal for siding in areas prone to buildup.
If wood is used, opt for naturally moisture-resistant species like cedar or redwood.
Preventing Water and Mud Splashes – Runoff from melting snow can cause water damage and erosion around the foundation. Thoughtful site drainage and material selection help mitigate this issue.
Structural Support for Extended Overhangs
Exposed Beams – Many desert and mountain modern designs embrace exposed beams for both aesthetic and functional purposes.
Structural Reinforcement – To support long overhangs, larger cantilevered beams or a combination of beams and columns may be required.
Preventing Ice Hazards
Melting snow can refreeze on driveways and walkways, creating hazardous conditions. Designing proper drainage pathways and positioning drip lines away from shaded areas helps reduce the risk of ice buildup.
Final Note
Designing for extreme climates requires a balance of aesthetics and practicality. By considering sun exposure, snow management, material selection, and structural support, we can create buildings that not only endure harsh conditions but also enhance the experience of living in North Central Washington’s beautiful yet challenging environment.
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