Courtyard to enclosed sunroom/conservatory
My house is designed so that it has a deck in the middle. It is almost enclosed from 4 sides with brick walls, but with a gap in one of the sides allowing you to enter the deck from the outside (think G-shaped house). It was designed this way so that both living rooms at the front and back gets northern light.
I am thinking of turning the deck into a fully enclosed area by putting a clear roof on it. The reasons are:
- I want to use the area all year round (3 seasons, preferably 4). Enclosing it would allow adding insulation, solid floor, adding an outdoor fireplace, perhaps connecting HVAC
- Having a clear roof maintains light to the living areas
- Passive solar heating via greenhouse effect - the brick walls on all sides would make a good heatsink, and I can further increase that with adding a concrete floor. This could increase the thermal performance of the whole house, so the room would serve a purpose even when it's not used
- Because the walls are already in place, it seems like relatively easy upgrade, and I see more upsides than downsides.
My concern is, though, is the greenhouse effect in summer. I can add passive ventilation in the roof, but I'm concerned it won't be enough. Will I will need to be able to fully open the roof? I don't want to leave it open to the elements, as that would compromise my intent of turning it into indoor space. Perhaps there's something that functions like heavy curtains, like retractable shade? Perhaps I will need an exhaust fan?
I am in Canberra, where the cold season is a lot longer than the warm season.
I will consult an architect if I'm to set the plan in motion, but I'm after some advice and feedback just to gauge the feasibility of it. Are there other issues or drawbacks I have not thought about?
Cheers,
macyjean
neverwasbeenOriginal Author
Kate