Based out of Tehran, BMDesign Studios is used to facing complex issues that come with living in an arid environment. With precipitation one-third of the world average, and evaporation three times higher, the firm has devised a double-roof system to solve the water scarcity problem. The Concave Roof consists of an elegant, bowl-shaped structure atop a domed roof. Rainwater funnels through the bowl into cooling reservoirs, while the space between the double roofs provides wind circulation and shade.
The system is designed to “help [make] even the smallest quantities of rain [flow down] the roof and eventually coalesce into bigger drops, just right for harvesting before they evaporate,” the architects explain. Placed in between building walls, the cooling reservoir helps regulate indoor temperatures. As a result, the carbon footprint of the air conditioning units essential in the intense climate is lowered.
Initial testing shows 60% efficiency, with 989 cubic feet of water harvested out of just 9,935 square feet of concave roof. The Iranian firm plans to continue research in order to maximize future efficiency.With arid areas due to increase over the next 30 to 40 years, the innovative thinking of BMDesign Studios will become increasingly essential for comfortable—and efficient—living.
BMDesign Studios: Website
h/t: [Inhabitat]
