This thesis is an attempt to address the phenomenon of the sun in architecture. Particular use is made of the notions of warmth, light, shadow and energy as form generators. Of specific concern is how one structure can work in harmony within its environment and existing constraints.

An analysis of an existing building is performed, with an eye to its strengths and weaknesses as a residence. It is an interesting challenge for an architect to take an undistinguished building - one designed for a bygone age of surplus energy - to identify those substantive elements to be retained and reused, those which are to be eliminated or substantially altered, and then harmonize them, in conjunction with a new plan, in order to create a warm, energy efficient, aesthetically appealing, and ultimately livable family residence. The possibilities concerning the highest and best changes to be made to improve the use of an existing structure are first identified.

This thesis shows how a physically and spiritually cold, unattractive, and unremarkable building, one of little or no architectural merit, can be transformed - through improved natural light and heat - to create a better environment for a family.