Vegetation on Heat Barrier

A research was done to search for multiple species of plant to be incorporated into the heat barrier.

In the Core & Barrier concept, these plants reduce heat gained and act as heat barrier. They also perform different functions, such as reducing noise, purifying air, aesthetic purpose etc.

Studies have shown that plants can reduce the reverberation time by absorbing, reflecting or diffracting background noise and thus creating a more comfortable environment for the occupants.

Different plants are located at specific parts of the façade to respond to the site and sun. The plants chosen were also chosen for their low maintenance requirements such as infrequent watering required and size, where the plant does not grow too quickly where it will not burden the house owners to perform regular trimmings or re-rooting.

 

 

 

 

Chinese evergreen plant: Located at façade facing the road to reduce noise and filter toxic gases such as carbon monoxide from vehicles, ammonia, benzene and formaldehyde.

 

It can grow in filtered light and light shade and only requires moderate watering.

 

Dwarf snake plant: Located at the façade near to the bedroom as it has a unique characteristic where it releases oxygen at night instead of during the day and thus aids in sleeping.

It also filters the air from chemicals such as formaldehyde, xylene and ammonia. Snake plant is known as one of the NASA top ten best indoor air-cleaning plants. It can take a wide range of conditions and is very low maintenance as light watering is required.

 

 

Peace lily: Placed at the façade near the work place as it is able to filter benzene in cigarette smoke- it also filters out formaldehyde found in paint. Also known as one of the NASA top ten best indoor air-cleaning plants. Low maintenance, require watering once a week. Noise reducing properties makes it an excellent plant for the barrier.

 

 

 

 

 

Lemonbalm and peppermint: Chosen to be planted at the heat barrier near the kitchen as it is edible.

Both have fragrances that repel mosquitoes, and are easy to grow and maintain. Lemonbalm is especially tolerant of bad conditions and it is not affected much by pests and disease.