HOW CAN SOLAR PANELS ACT AS THE ROOF OF A PATIO AND BECOME A DYNAMIC FEATURE OF THE NEW STRUCTURE?

One of our first projects at Latus Studio was a partnership with a local solar installer to provide a new integrated solar patio structure, which would replace an old and tired canvas canopy.

The owners, proponents of solar panels on the homes in Bexley, OH, wanted the panels in the rear yard to be incorporated into the design but hidden from view when occupying the yard. Complicating the matters was an additional desire to mimic the cornice profile of the home which called for a hidden gutter system. Using the fixed size of the transparent glass solar panels to help layout the overall size of the new patio and columns, we were able to hide the gutter system along the edge and direct water to a single downspout.

Working with our Structural Engineer (Schaefer Engineering), we were able to design a simple roof structure that incorporates LED lighting while minimizing any structure - allowing the solar panels to be on full display when under the canopy.

Interested in a solar project and need advice and/or a site visit? Please reach out to info@latusstudio.com!