For quite some time, renewable resources have been sitting on the sidelines of fields like design. While they have long been an essential solution to the problem of climate change and global warming, they haven’t ever been made to look good. Instead, these sorts of devices are designed to meet their purpose to a reasonable cost, while also remaining as invisible as possible from the road below. That is, until now, at least when it comes to solar power.
It doesn’t take huge changes in a market for all of the products in it to follow suit. In the case of solar panels, the move towards aesthetics is largely thanks to a company called Tesla. Best known for their range of electric cars, they have been hard at work at several ranges of panels which are made to be completely invisible. Mimicking the tiles already on your roof, they look no different from the road; but you don’t just have to take this post’s word for it.
Beautiful Solar Buildings
Around the world, there are countless examples of tastefully implemented solar panels. To make something truly beautiful, though, is more than simply hiding the uglier parts away. Instead, as part of the challenge of design, engineers have to work to make sure these areas are made to be stunning. You can find some of the best examples of this sort of work from around the world below. Along with this, you could also consider doing some research on sites like Pinterest to give yourself loads of inspiration.
SurPLUShome
Coming in with the first example, one of this project’s primary objectives is to create a stunning take on a sustainable home. Having an incredible small footprint, while also being made from wood, this small structure is capable of comfortably hosting a pair of adults. Just a few years ago, having a building like this coated with small solar panels would look horrid. Now, though, with the tools available, Team Germany have been able to build something breathtaking.
Mont-Cenis FE Center
As any place of learning should be, Mont-Cenis’ Further Education Center is Germany’s second entry on this list is sure to inspire all kinds of students. Being primarily made from glass, the entire building feels like standing out in the open. To replace a traditional ceiling, the roof on this structure is made entirely from semi-opaque solar panels. Inside, this place feels like a small village, and it’s easy to see why it has captured the imagination of so many writers and architects.
Crescent Dunes
Some of the world’s most visually pleasing solar ventures also happen to be the largest, and this example from the Nevada desert is no exception. Using space which would otherwise be left empty, this large piece of land is entirely dedicated to generating power from the sun. With an array of panels organised into an intricate spiral, this makes for an eye-catching display, and can’t be ignored when looking at the prettiest panels in the world.
Heliotrope
Being the first ever building to maintain a positive energy balance, meaning that it is able to produce more power than it uses, it’s easy to see why this design has become popular in recent years. Of course, the creative and pleasing design also plays a large part in this. There are loads of examples of modern buildings which follow this sort of idea, nowadays. The Heliotrope deserves a mention, though, as it marks a huge stepping stone in the world of economical architecture.
Getting It For Yourself
As these tools slowly become more attractive, it’s becoming much easier to create buildings which are enhanced by their presence, rather than having to make compromises when trying to use them. Of course, though, taking a slice of this for yourself will take a lot of work. To begin the process, a professional team of installation experts will be required to put the array of panels together for you. There are loads of these sorts of businesses popping up all the time, and you only have to read some reviews to find the best for you.
Along with the initial work, a lot of solar panels will require some ongoing maintenance to keep them in perfect shape. To help you out with this, companies like Essential Solar maintenance have the skills and resources to look after all of the ongoing work your panels bring. This sort of support is often essential when you buy this sort of gear. Of course, though, with the energy savings you get from it, this small investment will feel well worth it.
Hopefully, this post will inspire you to start looking into the idea of solar power for your home. As time goes on, all areas of renewable fuel are becoming easier on the eye, giving designers the chance to have some real fun with them. Of course, though, you may have to wait a few years until your favourite examples are available in the mass market.