2006
Open the House - Berlin - Germany
The intelligent climate clothing that the Berlin architects realities:united developed in 2006 as a prototype for the exhibition Open House shows how architecture could be fundamentally transformed through innovations in technology and behavioral changes.
Climate control is no longer handled by the building, but rather by an undergarment worn on the body that automatically adapts to various conditions, using sensors to measure and actively regulate body temperature.
Smart textiles would allow the easy switch between spaces of various temperatures or between indoors and outdoors without infringing upon one’s personal level of comfort.
The hypothetical “Open the House” project questions habitual patterns and the need for closed climate shells in buildings.
If everyone would carry their own individual comfort zone, why should spaces merely offer the same climate zone for all users?
Furthermore, it eliminates the need for gratuitous climate-related technological upgrades and structural changes to buildings.