Modesty/privacy options for large south facing glazing

[lakelandfolk]

Hi,         We are currently thinking of designing double height glazing to the front entrance hall, ( south facing ) probably about 2 - 2.5 metres wide to allow passive solar gain.                 Problem is that it will overlook our neighbours garden and we do not wish to start on the wrong foot as incomers. The ground floor should not be too much of an issue as it will be screened to some extent by the garage The upper section, stairs and landing will. Just wondering what the effect on solar gain would be if, to keep on side with our new neighbours, we were to offer to fit some type of obscure glass to the upper panels, or is that a bad idea when we are trying to get close to passive house standard

[Temp]

How about some sort of film that can be removed of changed later? You can get some that makes it look like the glass has been etched, perhaps with something like a band with a tree/vine pattern that adds a level of obscurity just at head height with clear glass above and below. Used a lot on office partitions.

 

 

 

 

Another option might be an internal screen/blind installed a few inches inboard from the window. Lets the light in which heats the screen. When they know you better it can be disappeared?

 

It's possible you may need some sort of blind or screen anyway if you get too much solar gain in summer. Likewise curtains in winter to cut down heat loss or provide you with extra privacy at night when you are backlit? 

 

Edited October 15, 2016 by Temp

[Temp]

I'd wait for the planners to raise the issue rather then raising it yourself.

[lakelandfolk]

I agree, thanks guys

[IanR]

On 10/15/2016 at 16:46, lakelandfolk said:

Hi,         We are currently thinking of designing double height glazing to the front entrance hall, ( south facing ) probably about 2 - 2.5 metres wide to allow passive solar gain.                 ~~~~~~snip~~~~~~~

or is that a bad idea when we are trying to get close to passive house standard

 

Are you estimating the solar gain based on a hunch, or are you thermally modelling the building (PHPP)?

 

If you plan insulate and airtight close to PH levels you may not need much glazing to get all the solar gain you require. If you design in too much glazing you may give yourselves an overheating issue in summer and possible the shoulder months.

 

If you want the double-height glazing for aesthetic/lifestyle choice then that's absolutely fine, but get it modeled so that you know if an overheating risk requires mitigation.