The latest issue of Home Power has an article on how to cool your house down using natural systems (also known as passive cooling). This is a concept that is neglected in most modern house design — forcing home owners to use air conditioning throughout the summer.
The article illustrates the basics of passive cooling quite well: how to choose the right windows, using overhangs and catching breezes.
Be Cool by Home Power (PDF File)
[...] Using Natural Systems To Cool Down [...]