Sunday, April 10, 2011

Japanese Style Furniture with High Thermal Mass Floor Synergy

An interesting thought: by combing a hydronic radiant heating element in an application of a concrete floor with the style of Japanese furniture which encourages a close connection to the ground, dwellers of a modern minimalistic home can most greatly take advantage of the thermal mass the cement floor provides. During the hot days of summer, the floor will retain the coolness from the night before and, as heat rises, the floor is the optimal place to take advantage of the cool floor slab. And during the cold winter months, the radiant heat from the floor will be most quickly enjoyed the closer you are to it, with the thermal mass of the cement contributing to an regular and elongated heating effect. It may sound uncomfortable to be sitting on a cement floor, but the addition of a variety of meditation pillows and seat pads would most likely provide enough of a cushion. As Lao Tzu said, "In dwelling, live close to the ground. In thinking, keep to the simple. In conflict, be fair and generous. In governing, don't try to control. In work, do what you enjoy. In family life, be completely present."


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