This passive solar residence in Marfa, Texas, was constructed with compressed earth blocks, which were made using soil harvested from the property. The dry, high desert climate, with wide daily temperature swings, presents an ideal location for this building method. The day's heat penetrates the 12" thick walls to warm the house at night, and the night's cold air reaches the inside of the house to cool it during the day. Other design techniques such as the north/south orientation, clerestory windows, and roof overhangs maximize the energy efficiency of this unique home..   South Clerestory Lighting |