The Benefits of Natural Light
Windows, doors, storefront systems, curtain walls and skylights provide a physical separation between the inside and outdoor environments by providing an air, water and thermal separation.
In addition, these glazing systems’ transparent (or sometimes translucent) characteristics transmit daylight into interior spaces which can augment artificial lighting during daytime hours.
Coordinating the provision of daylighting through fenestration and glazing may reduce the number of lighting fixtures required to satisfy lighting intensity needs of interior spaces. Coordinated daylighting and lighting controls may contribute to the reduction of electrical consumption over the service life of the building.
Depending on the type of lighting fixtures being considered in conjunction with daylight, this energy reduction can be significant, especially if automated lighting controls are employed.
Lighting fixtures may be controlled with dimmable ballasts so light output can be coordinated with the availability of daylight to reduce electrical lighting usage and reduce energy consumption. This is a key feature of a daylighting system: dimmable lighting plus fenestration and glazing that is appropriately positioned on the façade, in appropriate quantities to maximize daylight penetration, with appropriate design and specification to manage unwanted glare and heat gain.
Features like solar control glass, light shelves, sunshades, interior automated blinds and electrochromic glass, light interiors and furnishings can be used to maximize usable daylight while minimizing unwanted glare and uncomfortable heat.
The value and positive contribution of daylight to the interior environment is recognized and encouraged through access to daylight in buildings.
Exterior views, especially of nature, have been shown to be highly beneficial to human health and well-being.
Research has shown connections to increased productivity in the workplace, faster healing and fewer medical errors in hospitals, as well as learning outcomes and better child health in schools, with lower levels of stress in all occupancies.
