Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
LIGHT AS AN IMPORTANT ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENT IN
COMTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE
Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
TITLE SHEET
TITLE OF THE REPORT: “Light as an important architectural
element in comtemporary architecture”
SUPERVISOR: Andrea Mortensen
AUTHOR: Maria Tkacenko
DATE/SIGNATURE: 30/10/2015
STUDENT IDENTITY NUMBER: 204107
NUMBER OF COPIES: 2
NUMBER OF PAGES: 47
GENERAL INFORMATION: All rights reserved – no part of this publication may be reproduced
without the prior permission of the author.
NOTE: This report was compiled as part of the Constructing Architect education – every
responsibility concerning guidance, instructions or conclusions is hereby renounced.
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Along the course of this dissertation, I received a lot of support from different people.
But most of all I would like to thank for all support which I receive from my consultant
Andrea Mortensen, as well as patience and understanding, for all the help and guidance
that she gave to me during my work, which pushed me forward.
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
2. Preface
This dissertation is part of the final examination for the Bachelor of Architectural Technology
and Construction Management education.
This dissertation is written first of all for architects, to make them aware of the major role,
that daylight plays in architecture design and how it be used differently in architectural to
optimize the indoor environment. This dissertation is going to be a handbook for architects,
which will help to understand the importance and value of daylight and tips on how to
design a better indoor environment using daylight as a design parameter. As well some part
of this dissertation might be an article in some magazine showing how the daylight is
integrated in different buildings, so not only architects, but also other trade groups can
understand the value of daylight.
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
3. Abstract
Thesis consists of research and practical implementation, based on collection of analysis,
surveys and information gathered on a basis of studies of a theoretical and practical
examples of 3 different contemporary architectural buildings in Latvia, to find out if
contemporary architecture influenced by daylight and can natural daylight be integrated in
the architectural design to create a specific experience of a building and at the same
time optimize the indoor environment and how it can be done. Research main goal is to
discover alternative possibilities to utilize daylight in contemporary architecture to
create a scecific and unique inside view , at the same time creating pleasant indoor
enviroment quality for inhabitants. Reconsider the concept of daylight usage and come
up with proposals and useful advices.
And aim of case study is to implement gathered knowledge in real projects, by giving
advices in way daylight could be used in a proper way to improve design part of the
building in combination with pleasant indoor enviroment quality.
The research aim exposed in the main question:
Can natural daylight be integrated in the architectural design to create a specific
experience of a building and at the same time optimize the indoor environment and how
is this done?
I expect this dissertation helps me to rethink the importance of the daylight in
architecture, valuable knowledge and make my own solutions.
3.1 Keywords:
Daylight, light penetration, contemporary architecture, indoor environment, building
orientation, glare, external solar shading system, skylight, glazing, sun path, indoor shading
system.
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
4. Index
Acknowledgements ....................................................................................................................3
2. Preface ....................................................................................................................................4
3. Abstract ..................................................................................................................................5
4. Index .......................................................................................................................................6
5.Introduction.............................................................................................................................7
5.1 Choice of subject ..........................................................................................................7
5.2 Subject definition and problem statement ..................................................................7
5.3 Research methodology and empirical data ..................................................................8
5.4 Theoretical basis ...........................................................................................................8
5.5 Overall structure and the dissertation..........................................................................8
6 .Main section ...........................................................................................................................9
6.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................9
6.2 History ........................................................................................................................10
6.3 Daylight Factor ............................................................................................................12
6.4 Daylight benefits and advantages ..............................................................................13
6.5 Daylighting disadvantages ..........................................................................................14
6.6 Glare from daylighting ................................................................................................14
6.7 Innovative daylight technologies ................................................................................16
6.8 Building form ..............................................................................................................19
6.9 Daylight Penetration ..................................................................................................19
6.10 Building Orientation..................................................................................................21
6.11 Window orientation..................................................................................................22
6.12 Shading .....................................................................................................................23
7. Case study.............................................................................................................................26
7.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................26
7.2 Sun stone – office building .........................................................................................27
7.3 Castle of Light” – Latvian National Library..................................................................32
7.4 Saldus music and art school........................................................................................37
8. General conclusion ...............................................................................................................42
9. List of figures ........................................................................................................................44
10. List of references ................................................................................................................47
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
5. Introduction
5.1 Choice of subject
Light has a direct impact on human vital functions: it can affect mood, health and/or
performance. Despite the fact that most of the time people spend indoors, a huge number
of buildings in the world are made without taking into consideration the natural movement
of air and light. This project investigates whether it is possible to improve the quality of the
indoor environment and the architecture by the use of daylight.
Nowadays architects mostly think about architecture concept not in overall, but
concentrating only on one part of the design process, which seems for them most
important. And because of that is happening, we need to deal with many problems related
to the indoor environment and design pyramid already afterword everything is built up.
I choose this topic for my dissertation, not only to find some solution of how design and
indoor environment can work together by using daylight, but as well to reconsider the
concept of daylight usage and to show how important it is, and to make architects think
about that during all design fazes.
I strongly believe that if architect will focus on thoes two important parts of the design
process in the same way, then will increase the level of world contemporary architecture.
5.2 Subject definition and problem statement
5.2.1 The problem and the attitude formulation
Thesis consists of research and practical implementation, based on collection of analysis,
surveys and information gathered on a basis of studies of a theoretical and practical
examples of 3 different contemporary architectural buildings in Latvia.
Problem statement:
Can natural daylight be integrated in the architectural design to create a specific
experience of a building and at the same time optimize the indoor environment and how
is this done?
5.2.2 Rationalization of the subject choice
The reason why I chose this subject is not only my interest in daylight in architecture, but
also finding alternative solution of how natural daylight can be integrated in the
architectural design to create a specific experience of a building and at the same time
optimize the indoor environment. I consider that some building in Latvia are dealing with a
dylight issues and dont use it dignity. A also believe, relying on building i discovered, that
architects moslty focus on one part of the design faze which leads to the different kind of
consequences. Mostly what i like about architecture , it is dealing with challenges it brings to
us, the way all the things should work together and its strong influence it has on us.
5.2.3 Problem formulation questions
Among the questions that I would like to pose in this report there are ones like:
Is contemporary architecture influenced by daylight?
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
Can design pyramid and indoor environment work together during the design process?
Is design pyramid and indoor environment working together in the three case buildings?
Are there any daylight issues with which these buildings are dealing with?
Are there any solutions to get rid of these issues?
Is the daylight important part of the design process?
Is indoor environment quality influenced by daylight?
5.2.4 Delimitation:
Result of the proposal is a personal reflection of the gathered data. The solutions and
advices i porpose at the end are based only on dealing with daylight use in architecture and
can be applyed to some other buildings as well, which ar dealing with the same problems.
However in my dissertation i am not considering thoroughly artificial lightning, only showing
the solutions how artificial lightning can be reduced by using daylight in a proper way.
5.3 Research methodology and empirical data
Methodology of my research is based on analysing the data and information gathered
and by the process of analysing I do build my own knowledge and form my personal
attitude to the issue, as well offering my solution to the related problems.
5.4 Theoretical basis
I am using study materials, journalist and architects web pages as well as publications or
reports in the public domain.
5.5 Overall structure and the dissertation
The dissertation is divided in 4 big blocks: an introduction, to explain what the
dissertation is about; main section, to have a foundation for all the investigation
process; practical case; a conclusion, to answer the questions defined in the
problem formulation
1.
INTRODUCTION: The introduction explains the main topic of this
dissertation, little by little. At the beginning, in the “choice of subject”, I write
why I choose the topic of this work. After, there is a “subject definition and
problem statement” where it is exposed the Main Question that defines all the
work. I tell how I get to the problem, and what I am going to do to answer it.
Afterwards, there is an explanation of the main principals used, in “theoretical
basis”, and the description of the dissertation’s structure, in this point
2.
MAIN SECTION : This area is the foundation of the dissertation. It is a
compilation of all the principals and examples that this project is going to follow.
3.
PRACTICAL CASE: In this part there are an analysis about 3 buildings i
chose, which are based on discovered information from the main section. As well
after each case study there is a conclusion combined with discussion.
4.
CONCLUSION: In this area i am answering the questions defined in the
problem formulation
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6. Main section
6.1 Introduction
We should look at DAYLIGHT IN ARCHITECTURE from both sides- design pyramid and indoor
environment. Indoor environment quality includes conditions inside a building such as- air
quality, lighting, thermal conditions, ergonomics—and their effects on occupants or
residents. (1)
DAYLIGHT IN ARCHITECTURE
Design pyramid
Indoor environment
Ill.6.1.1 Concept of the Daylight in Architecture
Talking about design pyramid, things that it includes, intersects and touches as well indoor
environment quality. Design pyramid consists of such a things as-building form and daylight
penetration, building and window orientation, window size and glazing, outside obstructions
and sun path.
IMPORTANT
COMPONENTS
OF THE DESIGN
PROCESS
Building
form
Daylight
penetration
building and window
orientation
Window size and glazing
Outside obstructions. Sun path
DESIGN PYRAMID
Ill.6.1.2 Design pyramid explanation
All these components which are present in the design pyramid are very important to a
building design and during the design process they should be taken in consideration,
otherwise, if something won’t be considered, the idea of the pyramid won’t be
implemented.
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
All the components effect the daylight penetration into the building, the way it is going to
dissipate and spread over the surface, all the time creating a unique inside view. The design
pyramid is hence a tool for the designers to use in the design phases to make sure that all
aspects of daylight (in this case) is included and taken into account.
Dissertation components:

What is daylight? A little bit of daylight history

Discover advantages and disadvantages of daylight

What is a daylight factor? Discover a daylight factor

Controlling daylight

Glare from daylighting

Innovative daylight technologies. Light shelves

Building and window orientation. Maximize daylighting advantage

Outside obstructions. Sun path

Building form and daylight penetration

Daylight challenges

Discover natural daylight use in three different buildings in Riga and the
surroundings. Choose some building in Riga city, which refers to contemporary architecture
and have different form and type. How does an indoor environment change in those
buildings according to all the factors mentioned before.
6.2 History
Daylighting has played an important role in architecture for centuries. From ancient
buildings in Persia designed to keep perishable goods cool to the large glass window displays
in neo-Gothic churches, windows and natural light has always played a role in building
design and architecture. For the most part of human history, from the origin of man and
until the 18th century, for lighting only two types of light sources were available. The main
one is the light of day - the foundation that allows us to see, having the properties that our
eye has adapted over millions of years. After a while, since the Stone Age, with its
development of agriculture and tools, to daylight was added a flame of fire, as the second
artificial light source. Since that time, and for a considerable time the lighting conditions and
sources were not changed and remained the same. The paintings in the cave of Altamira
were created to be seen by a human in the same light as the Renaissance and Baroque
paintings were.(4)(5)
Ill.6.2.1 Paintings in the cave of Altamira
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
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Lighting was limited by availability of daylight and the flame, and exactly for this very reason,
a human had to improve the application of these two light sources for tens of thousands of
years.
6.2.1 Daylight in ancient architecture
Development of architectural lighting means a consistent adaptation of the architecture to
obtain the needed lighting with natural light. The buildings themselves, and separate areas
have changed along the history in order to improve the exploration of sunlight. The size of
the rooms and other building spaces as well was determined by the presence of natural light
and ventilation. At the same time were created a variety of architectural styles and types,
which were developed in different climatic zones of the world, depending on the daylight
conditions. In cold areas with mostly cloudy sky, we can see the development of buildings
with large, high windows, so that more light can penetrate deep into the building. In these
areas it was determined, that diffuse natural light produces an even illumination which was
preferred, and bright sunlight could generate problems- shadows, glare and overheating of
indoor spaces. However these sunny days were limited to a few in a year, and can be
ignored. In countries with plenty of sunshine these problems are critical. Most of the
buildings there have small windows that are located in the lower parts of the exterior walls
of buildings which have a high reflectivity. This means that hardly any direct sunlight can
penetrate into the building. Even today, the lighting in such places is mainly due to light that
reflects from the surfaces of the buildings, where most of its infrared component dissipated
during the process of reflection. (4)(6)
The lighting architecture of the past-is an interaction between architectural forms and
natural lighting creating a harmony. Seeing monuments of the past it can be divided into an
endless variety of architectural compositions and forms. The monuments of ancient Greek
architecture (especially the Parthenon in Athens) demonstrate the ability of architects to
create harmony by lighting and optical corrections resources. Sunlight emphasizes the
tectonics of Greek temples.(4)(6)
Ill. 6.2.1.1 “Parthenon”
The high art in the use of solar and scattered light of the sky was reached by the architects of
the Gothic architecture in the middle Ages. In Gothic cathedrals, a variety of architectural
forms, multi-coloured stained-glass windows and ornately decorated trims, were together
achieving a perfect harmony with the light. These examples suggest that the history of
architectural design is in particular the history of architectural techniques, taking into
account the characteristics of natural lighting conditions present.(4) (6)
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Ill. 6.2.1.2 Reims cathedral
Russian architecture has found its form and ornamentation techniques, perfectly readable in
the conditions of the prevailing ambient light cloudy sky. That way, the ancient Russian
masters discovered an interesting admission of partitioning walls, creating patterns in the
masonry brick walls. Patterned paths on small tower Kirillo-Belozersky monastery are thanks
to deep, sharply defined grooves clearly visible on a cloudy day. This technique is well
combined with the beautiful architectonic silhouette monastery.( 4) (6)
Ill. 6.2.1.3 Kirillo-Belozersky monastery
6.3 Daylight Factor
The concept of Daylight Factor (DF) was developed in the United Kingdom in the early 20th
century. Daylight Factor is a ratio that represents the amount of illumination available
indoors relative to the illumination present outdoors at the same time under overcast skies.
Daylight Factor is typically calculated by dividing the horizontal work plane illumination
indoors by the horizontal illumination on the roof of the building being tested and then
multiplying by 100. For example, if there were 20,000 lux available outdoors and 400 lux
available at any given point indoors, then the DF for that point would be calculated as
follows DF = 400/20,000 *100 or DF=2%.(7)
Natural daylight illumination can vary from 5,000 lx in a heavily overcast sky to over 40,000
lx in direct sunlight. This is much greater than that needed for adequate indoor lighting.
Typical indoor illumination requirements are less than 500 lx for workspaces normally the
recommendation is around 200lx for deskwork. Other areas, such as churches, appear bright
with much lower lighting because of the interior painting and reflections. Ten to 50 lx could
be acceptable in corridors, if the occupant's eye is adapted to the indoor illumination.
Daylight factor is to be used under overcast sky conditions only. Daylight factor is the most
common metric used when studying physical models to test daylighting designs in ‘overcast
sky simulators(7)
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
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The daylight factor is the amount of daylight reaching a point or a surface and it is split into
three components:

The Sky Component (SC), this is the light reaching the point directly from the sky.

The Externally Reflected Component (ERC), this is the light that reaches the point
after being reflected from surfaces outside the room such as buildings or roads.

The Internally Reflected Component (IRC), this is the amount of light that reaches
the point after being reflected from other surfaces in the room. (8)
The arithmetic sum of these three components gives the daylight factor thus:
DF = SC + ERC + IRC
The figure below gives a diagrammatical representation of this.
Ill.6.3.1 Scheme showing daylight factor meaning
Rooms with an average DF of 2% are considered to be lit. However, a room is only perceived
as well-lit when the DF is above 5%. Daylight factors are always measured under an overcast
sky or in an artificial sky which simulates a standard CIE overcast sky. (8)
6.4 Daylight benefits and advantages

Cost (less electric lightning and less cooling)
-A good daylight design can save up to 75% energy used for electric lightning in a building
- Good daylight = lower lighting energy. Good daylight means that electric lighting can be
turned off for a larger portion of occupied hours. That means less electricity use for lighting
(and lower utility costs). (9)
-Good daylight = lower energy consumption for cooling. Electric lights produce not just light,
but also heat. In office buildings, this heat can be a significant contributor to peak cooling
loads, because lights tend to be on during the hottest part of the day where people are
working. If electric lights can be turned off because of good daylight conditions, that also
means less cooling, lower AC bills, and maybe even a smaller, cheaper AC system. (9)
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
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- Large amounts of energy can be saved by using well designed lighting controls that can
take advantage of the natural light available. (9)

Human health
- Daylighting is considered full spectrum lighting. Studies have shown that full spectrum
lighting is essential for normal human activities(9)
- Natural light affects the human Circadian Rhythm. The Circadian Rhythm is a 24-hour cycle
to which most physiologic processes are set. (9)
- Daylighting has been associated with improved mood, enhanced morale, lower fatigue,
reduced eyestrain, increased learning ability, faster healing(9)

Productivity
- Quality daylight in workspace increases occupant’s productivity and level of comfort. (9)

Education
- increase student and teacher attendance
- increase achievement rates
- reduce fatigue factors
- improved student’s health
-“Students perform better under natural light”
- “Students with the most daylighting in their classrooms progress 20% faster on math tests
and 26% faster on reading tests in one year then those with the least” (9) (3)
6.5 Daylighting disadvantages

Cost
-More glazing = more solar gain. Increased glazing can mean more direct sunlight and
increased heat gains. If these gains happen in the winter, they can reduce heating energy
use. But if they happen in the summer, they can increase cooling energy use. (9)
- More glazing = more heat loss. Glazing is typically a poorer insulator than walls, so more
glazing typically increases conduction losses. Like solar gain, this could be either good or
bad, depending on the season. (9)

Education
- Direct sunlight penetration in classrooms and office spaces often produces an unpleasant
glare on work surfaces, making it difficult to work or view a computer screen. Too bright a
room is also not a nice space to work in. (9)
6.6 Glare from daylighting
Glare and control of contrast are problems in all seasons, especially for office building and
similar where tasks requiring computer use is performed. When there is too great a
difference between the light entering and the lighting on an object, contrast is a problem.
Daylighting is most effective in areas that can tolerate high variability in lighting conditions.
(11)
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
The aim of an efficient daylighting design is not only to provide illuminance levels that are
sufficient for good work performance, but also to maintain a comfortable and pleasing
atmosphere. Glare, or excessive brightness contrast within the field of view, is an aspect of
lighting that can cause discomfort to occupants. The human eye can function quite well if
extreme levels of brightness are present in the same field of view. To reduce glare,
sometimes passive devices, known as "light shelves" are used. (11)
Ill.6.6.1 Light shelf usage to reduce glare
6.6.1 Types of glare
There are two types of glare to contend with. Disability glare is caused by sunlight reflecting
from or covering whatever it is you’re looking at. This glare is direct, often from above, and it
works like a veil, obscuring things like printed text and television screens. Discomfort glare
on the other hand occurs when the light coming from the side of the object you’re looking at
is brighter than the object. Your eyes try to focus on the task at hand, but so much light is
entering the eye from the side, that it is difficult for you to focus visually for long periods. A
result of this glare can be headaches and eye fatigue. (11)
6.6.2 Window film
A good way to block direct glare from the sun is to cover south- and west-facing windows
with a special temporary heat-control window film. This film is specially designed to block
ultraviolet rays from the sun, but still allows some natural light through. (11)
Ill.6.6.2.1 Heat-control window film
It is better to install this special covering in early spring, and then remove it in the fall. Do
not use this covering on double-pane windows. In direct sunlight, the heat that is absorbed
may cause the glass panes to become too hot and the seal between them may fail. A
problem with this film can be that it is not see through and the even though the light can
penetrate the people inside the building cannot see out. (12)
6.6.3 Awnings and Shutters
Sunlight at midday is often the most annoying in terms of heat and glare. Installing a roof
overhang such as an awning on the exterior of your window to permanently block direct
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
sunlight can be a solution. Another option is to install exterior or interior shutters that you
can open and close as needed. (12)
6.6.4 Draperies and shades
Rolling solar shades give you a bit more versatility than awnings or window films because
you can open or close them as needed and choose colours that match your decor. Pull the
shades down from early morning to afternoon to block the harshest of the sun’s glare, while
still allowing natural light into your building or home. Another option to use, either in
conjunction with shades, or on its own, is hanging thermal curtains instead of sheers or thin
fabric draperies. Thermal curtains have a heavy blocking material that blocks sunlight during
the summer and helps regulate the temperature inside of your home by blocking out some
of the heat from the sun. (12)
6.6.5 Landscaping
Trees can also serve as splendid glare-blocking and shading.. The best place to plant a tree is
the western side of a building in a location that shades west-facing windows from the low
afternoon sun during the winter months. (12)
6.6.6 Decor colour
A good option is to paint walls with a brighter colour to achieve the effect that the windows
seem less bright in comparison to the room’s surfaces. As we know, glare has that possibility
to come from the sun’s reflection. So for example if the interior is in dark shades the window
will seem brighter in a result. By painting a wall in lighter shades, that effect can be reduce
because the room can become as bright as window. This is the perfect option, if you have
only one window in a space as a source of natural light and covering it would reduce light
significantly. (12)
6.7 Innovative daylight technologies.
6.7.1 Light shelves
Light shelves are horizontal reflection surfaces which directs the light deep into the room
through the ceiling by reflections. At the same time, to provide more light, the ceiling must
be painted in the light colour with good reflective properties, and glazing should be as close
as possible to the ceiling.(13) The amount of daylight penetrating with such a strategy
dependent on the orientation of the building facades. Good window opening orientation can
maximize the flow of sunlight and minimize glare and overheating. Orientation longitudinal
axis of the building from east to west increases the size of the facades facing south and
north. The main advantage of this solution is the highest thermal comfort, which is
particularly felt in the summer. (14)
Ill.6.7.1.1 Light shelves scheme
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6.7.2 Light well
Light well (light shaft, channel) can transmit daylight in the most remote corners of the
building through the roof and at the same time excluding the unwanted heat gain. This is
one of its main advantages with this solution. (14)
Ill.6.7.2.1 Light well scheme
6.7.3 Daylight heliostats.
Heliostat - a device able to rotate a mirror to direct the sun's rays constantly in one
direction, despite the apparent daily motion of the sun. These devices allow you to collect
the sunlight on the mirrors or lenses arranged in a tube, and direct the light to the required
placement. As a rule, the inside of the pipe is lined with metal, allowing to carry out light
without significant losses.(14)
Ill.6.7.3.1 Daylight heliostat
6.7.4 Skylights
Skylights provide natural lighting through the glazed openings in the roof of the building.
Through horizontal skylight to the room enters approximately three times more daylight
than into vertical window of the same size. Because the skylights may be located closer to
the centre of the room, they can create an even illumination over the entire area. (14)
Ill.6.7.4.1 Skylight system
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Natural lighting through skylights goes well with artificial lighting. If there in this
combination will be used automatic control devices, it turns out to significantly reduce the
cost of electrical energy. However, skylights highly increase the risk of overheating because
the sun light with enter the building throughout the entire day from the sun rises until , so
different shading devices can with advantages be used. . Prismatic or angular, skylights, as
opposed to flat, are not only able to pass, but also to redirect light. They can be designed in
a way that in the summer, when the sun is high above the horizon, its rays are partly
reflected, and in the winter time, when the need of lighting is higher, the sun's rays, located
low above the horizon, will be directed to the served room. The same applies for any time of
day: in the morning and evening hours the sun's rays are redirected into the building, and
later in the morning sun rises higher and its rays are reflected, what reduces the risk of
overheating. In summer, horizontal skylights pass more light and heat than in winter. (14)
Ill.6.7.4.2 Sun ray angle in a different times of the year
Therefore, are preferred vertical or semi-erect lights (called ribbon windows located above
the head, and ventilating skylight. In the development of these devices one must consider
the zenith angle of the sun at the building site.(15)
Ill.6.7.4.3 Sun angles types
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With the knowledge of these angles it is possible to control the amount of daylight in
summer and winter. During warmer months, windows constitute an obstacle to direct
sunlight and in the cold - passes the sunlight and reflect it inside. (15)
6.8 Building form
The overall shape of the building (its geometry, volume) significantly affect its energy
consumption. The ratio of building area to the enclosures surface area can also influence the
energy consumption of the building. In addition, one of the most intensive energy
consumers is, besides heating, electric lighting. The penetration of natural light into the
room, not only reduces the need for artificial lighting, but also improves the psychological
impact on the people in the building. (15)
Window size, glazing type and location of people in relation to the windows - are all part of
the design, which affect the quality and quantity of natural lighting in a building. Increased
perimeter of the building, high windows and skylights, interior and exterior shading devices all these aspects are design solution of daylight design in buildings. Long, narrow building,
reducing the need for electric lighting, which not only reduces the energy cost, but also
allow use of windows, by which is performed natural ventilation. From the ledges of the
building depends on penetration of sunlight into different parts of the building, allowing lot
of natural light to enter the building. Besides that they provide an opportunity of "green"
roof arrangement, reducing the amount of storm water runoff, increasing thermal
protection and reducing the daily temperature deviations. (15)
As already noted, in terms of size, quantity and location of windows, the overall shape of the
building may have a significant impact on the insolation. Engineers can advise not only the
location for optimal light transmission from the position of insolation, or, conversely, solar
shading, but also will consider opportunities associated with glare and heat component of
natural light. The maximum increase in southern orientation for passive solar lighting in
winter requires special attention to the type of glazing or shading devices to prevent
unwanted sun exposure in the summer time. (15)
6.9 Daylight Penetration.
This is one of the challenges in daylight usage, because there are difficulty in achieving
daylight penetration into deep building spaces. The amount of light that penetrates a room
depends upon the window orientation, size, glazing characteristics and the surroundings.
The distance that adequate daylighting will penetrate into a room depends upon window
location and interior surfaces. There is a direct relationship between the height of the
window head and the depth of daylight penetration. Typically adequate daylight will
penetrate one and one half times the height of the window head, although it may penetrate
a distance of twice the height under direct sunshine. (16)
Ill.6.9.1 Depth of adequate daylight with and without light shelves
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Daylight penetration into a space can be increased by using light shelves. Light shelves can
be interior or exterior, in which case they also can provide shading. A light shelf requires
higher than average floor-to-ceiling height to be effective (e.g., 3 m) and is only applicable
for southern exposures. Light shelves also require increased maintenance and any window
coverings used must be coordinated with the light shelf design.(16)
Ill.6.9.2 Depth of adequate daylight in a different times of the year using light shelves
Ill.6.9.3 Daylight penetration scheme using light shelves system
Skylights and light pipes can provide daylight through a roof to the interior spaces below.
Skylights often also allow heat gain in the summer time and can be a potential source of
glare. To maximize the amount of useful daylight, service spaces should be in areas with the
least daylight access. However, designers should consider providing daylighting to stairways
and corridors, as views of the outside will encourage users and allow light to penetrate
deeper into the building. Positioning the stairwells to provide daylight into corridors is one
way to promote a better daylight connection to the outdoors and to encourage the use of
the stairs.(16)
Ill.6.9.4 Daylight penetration scheme using skylights and light pipes
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In residential buildings, the double-loaded corridor configuration allows windows on only
one wall in most cases. Corner and "through" units corridors can have better light
penetration, reduced glare and better natural ventilation. Positioning the stairwells to
provide daylight into corridors is one way to promote a better daylight building, the
connection to the outdoors and to encourage the use of the stairs.(16)
Ill.6.9.5 Variation of the central core and double-loaded corridor building forms
6.10 Building Orientation
To maximize daylighting advantages, buildings can be located and oriented to take
advantage of the sun's movement throughout the day, as well as seasonal variations.
Directing the main facade of the building towards south, we get an additional opportunity to
heat the building by solar energy during the cold months, which will lower the heating cost.
South direction will also increase use of daylight, thus, decrease the need for electric lighting
during the day. South orientation of the building can also be used to produce solar energy or
heating water for heating the building. In southern areas, where it is desirable to reduce the
heat gain, limiting the east and west orientation of the building will reduce solar heating for
a long time with a low sun in the morning and evening hours. Facades directed to the north,
also have the advantage because daylight in the north does not blind and are more
comfortable in the daytime since the sun is very coming directly from the north, which
reduces energy costs. The use of solar energy on the court - it's not just a matter of
orientation of the building, but also issues of shading, the brightness, the analysis of the
building envelope, including insulation, glazing, and the choice of materials. When you select
the orientation of the building, one must also take into account the impact of climate
change. The prevailing winds, it’s direction and speed, relative air humidity, growing trees,
geographical location, including the hills and the surroundings buildings - all initially affects
the energy consumption of the building. (17)
All orientations have daylighting potential, since the average illumination level in overcast
skies at 46 degrees latitude is 7,500 lx, 15 times more than required for normal indoor tasks.
A good design strategy to address building orientation is to 'tune' windows to admit or
exclude solar energy based on their orientation. Generally, south-facing windows should
admit winter solar gain, and east- and west-facing windows should exclude low-angle
daylight. Overhangs and fins may be used to prevent glare and overheating. (17)
It can be very difficult to get consistent daylight and control glare from east and west
windows. However, the side of the building facing the sun's path (the equator-facing side)
can generally be easily shaded with overhangs, light shelves, or louvers, and the side of the
building facing away from the sun's path gets little or no glare. (17)
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Ill.6.10.1 Different building orientation scheme according to sun path
As with massing for visual comfort, buildings should usually be oriented east-west rather
than north-south. This orientation lets you consistently harness daylight and control glare
along the long faces of the building. It also lets you minimize glare from the rising or setting
sun. (17)
6.11 Window orientation
In sunny southern locations, protecting your windows from the sun is an important
component of good window management. The first step is to know how the sun moves
through the sky and to orient the building and place the windows to minimize direct solar
admission through your windows. In the northern hemisphere summer the sun rises north of
due east and sets north of due west, climbing rather high in the sky at solar noon on the
summer solstice (about 21 June). The further north your building is the peak solar altitude
angle will be less than the 86 degrees shown below. In the winter the sun rises south of due
east and sets south of due west, climbing not very high in the sky at solar noon on the winter
solstice (about 21 December). (17)
At other times in the year, the sun paths will be intermediate between these extremes. Only
on the equinoxes (21 March and 21 September, approximately), will the sun rise due east
and set due west. (17)
We can see from these illustrations that it is easy to protect south-facing windows with a
roof overhang for all but the lowest winter sun. North-facing windows hardly need any
shading, (17)
Ill.6.11.1 Winter and summer sun path
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Since the only time the sun impinges on them is early in the morning or late in the afternoon
in summer, and at those times the angle of incidence is so great that much of the radiation is
reflected from the glass or blocked by the walls on either side of the window, especially if
the window is recessed somewhat into the wall. The biggest problems with solar heat gain
and the glare which direct sun entry can produce are experienced with east- and west-facing
windows. In the middle of the morning and afternoon the sun can be low enough in the sky
that only a very wide overhang can be effective. In such cases it is best to block the sun
outside, before it reaches the glass, using tress, awnings, shutters, or other shading
methods. Another alternative, illustrated in the drawing below, is to reduce the glazed areas
in the building facing the east and west directions and/or to ace unoccupied or non-air
conditioned spaces on the east and west sides of the building, to serve as buffering or
insulating zones. (17)
Ill.6.11.2 Reducing glazing are scheme
6.12 Shading
There are both interior and exterior shading options which can be used to protect windows
not otherwise shaded from the sun.
Ill.6.12.1 Different shading systems
Besides air conditioning, there are several ways to deal with the overheating of rooms in
summer months. The most effective methods include external windows accessories, which
become more and more popular in Europe. These systems, cutting off sunlight, do not allow
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glazing to heat. Experts believe that the external system is definitely better, because in
addition to protection from the sun, protect home from unwanted intruders visits, as well as
provide welcome shade from the outside. (17)
6.12.1 Outdoor roller shutters
Thermal and acoustic barrier provides the canvas shutters made of profiled aluminium
sheet, filled with polyurethane foam. Ideally, if the system is equipped with an automatic
open / close, as their daily maintenance can cause problems, since this is time-consuming.
Higher level of security is achieved through the use of properly selected locks and
blockers.(18)
Ill.6.12.1.1 Outdoor roller shutters
External blinds are shading systems based on an appropriate arrangement of horizontal slats
(slats), which makes it easy to regulate the flow of sunlight and heat, helping to maintain a
good atmosphere in the room. The user can limit heat access according to their preferences,
so that the temperature inside will stay at a moderate level, and the building will consume
less energy for cooling. (18)
Ill.6.12.1.2 Horizontal slats
6.12.2 Shutters
Currently are provided tilted and sliding shutters (on a special rail). The most popular
shutters are made of wood, but also on the market are available shutters made of PVC and
aluminium. (18)
Ill.6.12.2.1 Sliding shutters
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6.12.3 Awnings
In most cases, awnings are used on balconies and terraces to protect from the sun in these
areas. Also an innovative product appeared on the market - the awning for vertical windows,
which has the potential to become a favourite of users due to its versatility. (18)
Ill.6.12.3.1 Awnings
6.12.4 “Smart” external solar shading system
Examples of such solutions are awnings for the vertical windows. They retain heat from the
sun rays before these reach the glass surface. In practice, marquis installation reduces the
room temperature, at least by a few degrees. Innovative awnings protect rooms against
overheating 8 times more effective than the internal shading systems, such as blinds or
shades. New generation of exterior window shading system are able to effectively protect
the interior of the house or apartment from excessive solar heat. Special mesh protects an
organism not only from the high temperatures prevailing in the interior, but also from
dangerous ultraviolet radiation. In contrast to the air conditioners, awnings can work all the
time, without generating high costs of operation. Their batteries can be powered by free
solar energy. (18)
Ill.6.12.4.1 “Smart” external solar shading system
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7. Case study
7.1 Introduction
A case study is an in depth study of a particular situation rather than a sweeping statistical
survey. It is a method used to narrow down a very broad field of research into one
researchable topic. The purpose of the case study in this dissertation is to answer a problem
statement question; How can natural daylight be integrated in the architectural design to
create a specific experience of a building and at the same time optimize the indoor
environment? The case study research method that is used in my dissertation builds on a
collection of artefacts and texts in combination with schemes and diagrams. All the data is
organised and built up in a clear-line of discovery in the dissertation.
The case study is based on natural daylight use in three different buildings in Riga and the
surroundings. I have chosen 3 modern buildings; a library, a school and an office building,
which refers to contemporary architecture and which have different form and structural
type and naturally different functions. This was done to get a better understanding of
daylight can be integrated in different building and what the effect of the specific use in
each building is.
The study is based on discovering successful and unfortunate constructive solutions from
two different aspects. As in my dissertation I was focusing only on daylight usage in
architecture, I divided that notion into two parts- the indoor environment quality and the
design pyramid. That helped me to look at the daylight from two different ways, which in
many ways intersect with each other.
A conclusion and discussion which is combined, is written after each building case study.
This to give the reader a better understanding and an overview of the daylight concept in
those three totally different building types.
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7.2 Sun stone – office building
The building is 27 storey high (26 floors + one technical floor) and the building height is
122.78 meters, which makes it the highest building in Riga and the second highest in the
Baltic States, 27storey height of 91 m. Architects of the building is Victor Valgums
(architectural firm "Zenico Project") and Alvis Zlaugotnis (architectural firm "Tectum").Highrise construction was started on 14 February 2003. Commissioned the building was handed
over on 17 November 2004. With this type of the building in Riga has begun a construction
of the modern high-rise.(19)
Ill 7.2.1. Sun stone
The architectural shape of the building was determined by its location, so the most
important part of the building project the silhouette. It is characterized by lightness,
dynamics and transparency. The compositional structure of the building tower uses two
facade constructive solutions to emphasize the horizontal division oblique height front part glazing from floor to ceiling, the cylindrical tower part - glazed facade.(20)
For the first time in Latvia the front finishing of the building on such a large area was a
glazed surface used. It is built with an aluminium front system Fulton. Both glass and facade
systems are the latest generation construction solutions in its category. In combination with
glazed façade systems are ceramic panel facade system also used.(20)
Used 13 000 м ² of the glass.
7.2.1 About windows
Glazed facade solution is developed in such a way that from some angles the building is
completely transparent - it can be called the most transparent building in the Baltics. Project
dynamics aggravated by the fact that, looking at the building from different points of view in
several places, it looks different - you can see it and perceive it differently each time. In
windows system are used special window films, which not only enhances the visual appeal
of the building, but it also(20):

Increases security - protection against vandal or terror attacks

Privacy - allowing you to look out but preventing others from looking in

Solar control by blocking out over 99% of harmful UV radiation

Heat reduction of up to 70%, keeping the insides of your property cool during
summers
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

Dramatically reduces air conditioning costs
Improves energy efficiency by reducing heating loss during cold winters

Reduces dangerous glare in strong sunlight

Reduces fading to domestic and household items from direct sunlight

Increases skin protection

Holds shattered glass together reducing the risk of injury in case of an accident or
break-in. Some films even hold the glass in one piece in the frame

Prevents scratches to the glass by providing a barrier (21)
Solar controlled films which are used in „Sun stone” reduce glare by up to 83%, preventing
eye strain from items such as monitors and screens. Heat level within a building dramatically
reduces by as much as 70%, due to film and hende it becomes more comfortable inside the
building. As well is 99% of ultra violet (UV) radiation is blocked from the sun. It also protects
individuals that are directly in the sun's path, preventing serious skin complaints. For
maximum energy efficiency, highly reflective heat retention films are used to reduce heat
and glare issues in the summer months, reducing the use of air conditioning and lighting.
Whilst in winter months, the film is retaining the heat from heating systems, limiting the
amount of heat lost through windows. These window films are installed to the existing glass
and they are significantly reducing the heat and glare at a faction of the cost.(21)
For the curtain wall facade system CW 50 by Reynaers was used. This is a system that offers
unlimited creative freedom and allows maximum entrance of light into the building.
Fundamental to the design concept developed by the architects the glazing had to be as one
with the other façade materials, presenting a uniform and uninterrupted exterior. With Uvalues of approximately 1.5 and a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient ranging from 0.23 to 0.6,
the CW 50 curtain wall systems assist the building’s energy efficiency. CW 50 system offers
the widest range of technical and functional solutions that contain features such as fire
safety, enhanced sound insulation and with improved thermal insulation.(22)
7.2.2 Building orientation. Sun path
Ill 7.2.2.1 Sun path diagram of the building plot are. 3D view of the site plan
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Functional solution of the building storey is based on the plan with a central core in the
middle and working spaces around it. This solution provides the maximum view from indoor
to the Old Town and harbour. But this solution as well may provide some problems
connected with workspace comfort. Main entrance is located NorthWest. Working spaces
which are located on the Eastern side will get more sun in the morning time of the day.
Ill. 7.2.2.2 View from the Eastern side
The ones, who work with windows located towards South, will have a lot of natural light in
the middle of the day and there is a risk of indoor overheating and potential glare problems
– especially during winter times when the sun is low.
Ill. 7.2.2.3 View from the South side
But the people, who have their workspace facing West, will see a beautiful sunset, or during
summer time will have an evening sun.
Ill. 7.2.2.4 View from the West side
7.2.3 Conclusion
If we look at the main architectural concept of the building, we can see a clear outline of the
shape of the building where the main idea is to show the silhouette of the building, which
will contrast against the background. This effect is achieved by using curtain wall facade
system. Let’s first look at the indoor environment concept. The first that catches the eye is
that, the building is fully glazed and there is no solar shading system that we can see from
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outside. So the answer is - Solar controlled films. Sun protection film creates in the summer
indoor comfort by maintaining an optimum temperature in the room and reduce the load on
the air conditioning system. Installing existing sunscreen film on glass, on sunny days, the
room temperature can be reduced to 13 ° C. In winter, the film reduces the heat loss by
reflecting heat back into the room. The sun reflecting film has an anti-glare properties so it is
possible to work at the computer even on the bright days. It provides comfortable
conditions in the room in the most sunny and hot day. At the picture below we can see how
the sun reflects from the curtain wall and there appears a mirror effect. (21)
Ill.7.2.3.1 An example of the mirror effect.
The second options to get rid of sun rays during the day are indoor sunscreen blinds showing
transparency. We can see them clearly from the outside of the building.
Ill.7.2.3.2 Example of the outside view, where the sunscreen blinds can be seen
Sunscreen roller blinds are made from a mesh type PVC cloth. They allow you to maintain
your view during the daytime, and help reduce heat, glare and UV rays. Sunscreens blinds
are ideal for keeping your rooms cool in summer times. They really do make a huge
difference to a room. (23)
Ill.7.2.3.3 Example of the sunscreen blinds
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It is a good option to use sunscreen blinds when you still want to see out during the day and
it cuts down heat and energy loss from your windows.
The orientation of the building in this case could be various, because of the building storey
concept. Functional solution of the building storey is based on the plan with a central core in
the middle and working spaces around it. So it doesn’t matter how you turn the building,
because of it shape and functional solution, all the working place during the day will get the
natural light.
If we look at the design pyramid, then we can say that for sure that was the main goal. In my
opinion, if the main architectural concept of the building shape was to achieve clear outline
of the shape of the building, this is one of the best options that was used in this building to
get rid of natural light issues. Because of the building façade totally consists from the glass,
panoramic windows increases the area visually, as it extends the glass room outward,
connecting it to the surrounding landscape and thereby visually expand the space.
In my opinion, I would more look into future of the building, rather than focusing on the
perfect shape and silhouette of the building. I think that indoor environment is one of the
keys in this type of buildings, where a lot of people are spending most of the time of the day,
and by using daylight, should be design comfortable indoor atmosphere. I think that for
panoramic buildings, probably this sunlight reducing systems won’t be enough to achieve
perfect indoor climate and comfort indoor atmosphere. I would rather have used some
outside shading systems to block the sun from outside and light shelves to direct the light
deep into the room through the ceiling. But overall, as I said before, to reach the
architectural building form concept- solar controlled films and sunscreen roller blinds goes
perfectly together, so nothing changing building form concept.
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7.3 Castle of Light” – Latvian National Library
The Latvian National Library is the brainchild of American-Latvian architect Gunnar Birkerts,
who is perhaps best known for his creations in the United States which include the Corning
Museum of Glass in New York State and the Law Library Building at the University of
Michigan. Its shape is a symbolic expression of the Hill of Glass and the Castle of Light found
in Latvian folklore. Legend has it that the Castle of Light sank into an ancient lake and would
only arise from the depths when Latvians were once again masters of their own land.(24)
Main architect said:
“We wanted to ensure that this building was a continuation of the modern part of the
ensemble of thr left-bank, which has portrayed by “Printing House”, office building
management "Zapryby" hotel "Daugava". The composition clearly identified functional
groups consisting of a sixteen storey book storage with 6 million books and five-storey
reading room area building for 1,500 readers. Nearby is located canteen and a conference
room. Special architectural expression gives the building complex of the library reading
rooms. Its facade, facing the river, reminds the five major steps. Through continuous glass
wall and across the ceiling, in which are mounted large windows, in rooms are pouring
light streams.”(24)
used a lot of daylight (skylights, big glass
windows)- 13910m2
-a lot of glass structures are used in library
interior, that creates an impression of more
light inside, more free space and less closed
and dark spaces.
Ill.7.3.1 Silhouette of the building
Because of, in library where used successful daylighting systems (Exterior shading and
control devices, glazing materials, Aperture location, Reflectance’s of room surface,
Integration with electric lighting controls) where achieved such as goals as:
-daylight defines zones and boundaries
- daylight expands and accentuates rooms
- daylight altering perception of a space
- daylight reduces need for artificial lightning
7.3.1 About windows
All windows have very interesting texture. Dots which are seared in windows, are designed
to reduce the greenhouse effect.
Ill.7.3.1.1 Window texture example
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Windows layering is designed such a way, to open a wide view of a silhouette of the Old
Town for library visitors. Building, without calling itself as sustainable and green
architecture, is designed in a smart way. As acquisition shall be deemed Library BMS
system(Building Management Systems), of the acquisition shall be deemed Library BMS
system, which regulates heat, oxygen, air moisture and warm air, and recuperation process
returns to the system, as well building cooling related to the Daugava River. Deputy director
says - to the internal climate and the fact that in working spaces must not be opened
windows at the beginning was quite difficult to get used to.
7.3.2 Building orientation. Sun path
Ill.7.3.2.1 Sun path diagram of the library plot are. Site plan
Main entrance is located NW. All areas which are intended for selfstudy, book reading and
so on, are located along the building, facing NE and SW. Mostly visitors are using NE part of
the building, because there you can see a beautiful view of Riga city and especially during
the morning time, when the light comes into building and makes all rooms light and bright.
Ill.7.3.2.2 North-East part of the building
The biggest problems with solar heat gain and the glare which direct sun entry can produce
are experienced with east- and west-facing windows. In the middle of the morning and
afternoon the sun can be low enough in the sky that only a very wide overhang can be
effective. In such cases it is best to block the sun outside, before it reaches the glass,
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awnings, shutters, or other shading methods. For example, here, building façade which
situated on Valguma street (most specified time for sun), is design with Marquise – window
parasols. Library Marquise are designed as vertical blind, which doesn’t actually create any
particular shade, when the sun is high. If they wanted something extremely difficult, but
technically correct, the blinds could be build a 20 ° angle to the ground, which would be
approximately perpendicular to the sun in summer days. (24)
Ill.7.3.2.3 Marquise – window parasols
In my opinion, the most mistake is made on East part of the building, because there aren’t
used any type of shading techlogy, to reduce glare. Thats why, on that part of the building its
really hard to work in the mornings because of reflection effect and in that time of the day,
sun rays goes directly into building. But architects try to dispose of that, by retracting
windows more inside, so there is something like built in effect. In this way facade part comes
forward and light may not come directly inside the building.
Ill.7.3.2.4 Example of the East part of the building
There are as well used “Plise” blinds for pitched roof windows with aluminium coating which
reflects solar heat and reduces heat generation facilities in sunny weather(24)
Ill.7.3.2.5 Blinds for pitched roof windows
As well are installed cities and roller blinds with aluminium coating textiles to regulate solar
thermal radiation from entering the room. Installed in a specially shaped large-gauge
motorized curtain systems stage acoustic curtains.(24)
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Ill.7.3.2.6 Roller blinds with aluminium coating textiles
The good part about that building is the use of several skylight systems in the building, which
provide natural lighting through the glazed openings in the roof of the building. Through
horizontal skylight to the building indoor area enters approximately three times more
daylight than into vertical window of the same size. Because the skylights may be located
closer to the centre of the room, they create an even illumination over the entire area. (25)
Ill.7.3.2.7 Example of the skylight system
Natural lighting through skylights goes well with artificial lighting. If in this case will be used
automatic control devices, it turns out to significantly reduce the cost of electrical energy.
Prismatic or angular, skylights, as opposed to flat, are not only able to pass, but also to
redirect light. They are designed in a way that in the summer, when the sun is high above
the horizon, its rays are partly reflected, and in the winter time, when the need of lighting is
higher, the sun's rays, located low above the horizon, will be directed to the served room.
The same applies for any time of day: in the morning and evening hours the sun's rays are
redirected into the building, and later in the morning sun rises higher and its rays are
reflected, what reduces the risk of overheating (25)
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7.3.3 Conclusion
If we look at the concept of the building, in my opinion, it doesn’t have a lot of issues, and
overall the buildings have a good design concept (design pyramid) and good indoor
environment, that creates a comfortable atmosphere for visitors.
Let’s have a look on the indoor environment. So what are the tips that create a good indoor
environment? A proper building orientation, thoughtful solar shading system and glazing
type are the key to a required indoor environment. In my opinion orientation of the library is
chosen in a proper way, so the visitors receive sunlight during all day. In order to avoid a
problem with solar heat gain and the glare that can happen in the middle of the day, it was
decided to establish Marquise – window parasols. But the shade, that creates this vertical
blind, isn’t enough to fulfil all the requirements. To get the desired result, blinds could be
build a 20 ° angle to the ground, which would be approximately perpendicular to the sun in
winter days. But that doesn’t cause that much problems. The biggest issue, in my opinion, is
one on the East part of the building, where there is no shading system established. In the
morning time, when sun comes directly into study rooms, visitors in the Eastern part
experience an actual problem with glare. But this problem proceeds for about a couple of
hours, thereafter it disappears as the sun path changes. So there should have been used
some solar shading system, that would help to get rid of that problem with the morning sun
from east. Skylights, which are used to get natural light inside the middle of the building, is
located by the main staircase and entrances to all study areas and doesn’t cause an
overheating problem, because this closed space has a big volume and daylight is distributes
evenly. The only place, where there is a problem with overheating, is the top floor of the
building, where instead of roof, there is a big skylight and the sunlight appears all the time.
There are used triple glazing windows, which brings their own benefits according to the
indoor environment. For example this type of glazing offers a significant reduction in noise
pollution – so it is ideal for those living in noisy areas, in our case library is located in the
heart of Riga city. As well it reduces the difference in u value between the windows and the
rest of the building, so it doesn’t create cold patches in the building. However the large
glazing areas allows for the solar heat to enter the building despite the good u-value and
thereby the top floor can experience overheating at sunny days.
Now let’s have a look at the design pyramid. I think everyone will agree that if we have more
daylight inside the building, the more it is going to look spaciously, freshly and lighter. That is
the aim of a good design that can be achieved by using benefits of natural lightning. The
main materials which are used in the library interior are glass, wood, shiny and frosted
metal. Although metal is used the room feels light. Due to a successful combination of side
and top windows, as well as glass walls used between the rooms an illusion of interplay of
the light are created, which therefore creates the feeling of lightness and visually extension
of the space. In the library a different measure of illumination of individual fragments of a
common space clearly divides it into zones. Light becomes a formative factor. The shape of
the building overall catches and distributes the light. Form becomes luminous. Integration of
light, space and form reaches the highest level in this well designed building.
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7.4 Saldus music and art school
Saldus music and art school project is in a way unique because it is the first in the Baltic
States which architecture using only natural solid wood panels. This is a proof, that the wood
can also be used for public and spacious rooms, not only of small field houses. World trends
indicate that the use of wood in construction has started a Renaissance – there are
increasingly being research carried out both in terms of the sustainability of wood and
strength performance as well as the economic aspects and the impact on human health. Ltd.
"Made Architects" created Saldus music and art school in 2012 and received a major
architectural award for the project.(26)
Ill.7.4.1 Saldus music and art school
7.4.1 About windows. Construction
In this project, the main material used for exterior wall construction is solid wood: 34
centimeters thick consisting of cross-stapled fir tree boards. To protect the tree from the
weather impact, from the outside it is covered up with a glass construction with a fivecentimeter air gap between wood and glass. These facades provide insulated
semitransparent panels for efficient lighting comfort in the classrooms. (26)
Ill.7.4.1.1 Exterior wall façade solution
From the inside the building is decorated with lime plaster and paint. This solution makes it
possible to take full advantage of the inherent properties of wood - it breathes naturally and
regulates temperature and humidity indoors. The main value of the project is ecology,
energy efficiency and rational planning, which ensures the quality of the building function
and minimal resource consumption during operation. Microclimate of the building is
maintained by a natural ventilation system, supplemented by the material of the building
facade - wood, which is one of the temperature and humidity natural adjusters. In the
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
building are used lacquered wood / anodized aluminum windows with selective glass glazing
(U = 1.1W / m2K). Due to a special coating, it provides a high level of thermal insulation. (26)
Ill.7.4.1.2 Lacquered wood windows with selective glass glazing
There are two kinds of this glass covering- Solid (pyrolytic) - glass with marking "K" and Soft
(magnetron) - glass with marking «I». In the Saldus school there are used first option-glass
differs high quality, a composite, coating does not affect the light transmition. It allows the
passage of the short-wave solar radiation and prevents the long-wave thermal radiation.
This property of selective transmittance in different climatic conditions can be used in
different ways. Outside glazing is to reduce the flow of heat from the street, and it is the
perfect solution for hot countries. As the inner pane of glass, it will provide heat retention
indoors and largely affect the economy of heating, which is important in regions with a harsh
climate. (26)
Ill.7.4.1.3 Selective window type. Scheme of a transmittance of different rays.
7.4.2 Building orientation
Ill.7.4.2.1 Sun path diagram of the school plot are. Site plan
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
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The plot of the art and music school building is located in the green zone of Saldus city,
which stretches along the shores of river Cieceres. In a different way from the city center
perimetrical building and private house building on the periphery of the city, in the green
zone located in major public buildings with a considerable free zone around them. The
sports school, bus station, market, church, district council and other buildings in the green
territory also joined by music and art school. (26)
Art school
N
Music school
Ill.7.4.2.2 First floor plan showing zones
Main entrance is located towards South-Southeast. Art classes are preferred to have
towards the Northeast orientation due to the specific none-direct light from this direction, in
addition to giving the West sun for making class and South sun from courtyard to
composition classes. Classrooms and studio spaces are situated around the perimeter so
they benefit from the light coming through the full-height windows.(26)
The building of Music and Art school comprises two schools working separately until now.
The classrooms are placed on perimeter, while practicing halls and libraries in the middle of
the building. Light courtyards are the result of the compact plan, providing a lot of daylight
and reflected light in the middle of the school, and at the same time being the space for
both schools to interact. Green color in interior marks the Music school, while the blue is for
the Art school. Facade, consisting of massive timber panels, covered with profile glass, is a
part of energy efficient natural ventilation system, preheating inlet air during winter and is
the element, which binds the two schools physically together. (26)
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
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Ill.7.4.2.3 Art and music school interior example, using two different colors
7.4.3 Conclusion
Talking about the building itself, the project has good material and surface texture
combinations. This can be attributed both to the timber facade, glass transparency and
variability, metals, indoor concrete, paints and acoustic surfaces, both on asphalt and
furnishing plantings.
Let’s talk about the design pyramid first. The main idea connected with interior, was to
separate school into 2 zones- green color in interior marks the Music school, while the blue
is for the Art school. As the base for bright accents serves light grey structural concrete,
where on the surface you can see seams and joints. This type of interior is very good way if
you don’t want to overload the whole look, and to emphasize some individual parts of the
building. In this project natural lightning plays a major role, because it becomes a part of
interior design, where the most important job of the light is to emphasize some individual
parts of the building.
Ill.7.4.3.1Example, when light emphasizes individual parts of the building.
To be able to connect together 3 important things; design, compact planning and indoor
environment, a good solution was to place light courtyards in the middle of the building.
That solution allows to get more daylight into the building and to improve indoor
environment quality. Daylight, which penetrates into the building through the big full wall
windows, highlights clear boundaries and increases the saturation of the interior details.
As we see, design pyramid of the building is well-designed. Let’s look at the indoor
environment. As was discovered before, in the projects were used windows with selective
glass glazing. This high-performance glazing allows as much daylight as possible into the
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
rooms while preventing transmission of as much solar heat as possible. By controlling solar
heat gains in summer, preventing loss of interior heat in winter, and allowing occupants to
reduce electric lighting use by making maximum use of daylight, spectrally selective glazing
significantly reduces the buildings energy consumption and peak demand. So this glazing
type improves indoor environment, but what about such a problem as glare? There are not
any system used in the building to protect from direct sun, that can cause some problems
and the special selective window glazing won’t be enough to get rid of it. A lot of daylight is
not always a good option, if there are no options to protect indoor environment quality. One
of the options I would suggest- are sunscreen roller blinds, which are made from a mesh
type PVC cloth. They will help to maintain view during the daytime, and help reduce heat,
glare and UV rays. If interior design does not imply use of roller blinds, another option can
be solar controlled films which reduce glare by up to 83%, preventing eye strain from items
such as monitors and screens. This option will not in any way effect the look from outside, as
well from inside. As well such innovative solution as light shelves won’t affect that look so
much. Horizontal reflection surface directs the light deep into the room through the ceiling.
At the same time, to provide more light, the ceiling must be light with good reflective
properties, and glazing should be as close as possible to the ceiling. But if there is a need to
diversify outside view of the façade, then good option is to use some kind of overhang such
as an awning on the exterior of your window to permanently block direct sunlight. Another
option is to install exterior or interior shutters that you can open and close as needed. These
manual shutters could for example be placed in the façade where there is a small niche in
the inner wall where the windows are. (26)
Ill.7.4.3.2 Manual shutter placing example
In my opinion, such a problem as glare and sunlight control isn’t managed in this building, so
during sunny days inside determination can be not very comfortable. However a manually
controlled devise would reduce the glare problems and it expected that the solution can be
made, so that it does not have a negative influence on either the interior or the exterior
design of the building. As for design part, this building is well-solved.
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8. General conclusion
Indoor environment quality includes conditions inside a building such as- air quality, lighting,
thermal conditions, acoustics, ergonomics—and their effects on occupants or residents. In
my dissertation, I was focusing only on the daylight effective strategies improving occupants’
comfort and control. The design pyramid and aspects which it includes, intersects and
touches as well indoor environment quality. The design pyramid consists of parameters such
as building form and daylight penetration, building and window orientation, window size
and glazing, outside obstructions and sun path.
Case study research method that is used in my dissertation is a collection of artefacts and
texts in combination with schemes and diagrams from three contemporary buildings from
Latvia. The research is based on discovering successful and unfortunate constructive
solutions from two different aspects. In my dissertation I was focusing only on daylight usage
in architecture and I have divided that notion into two parts; the indoor environment quality
and the design pyramid. That helped me to look at the daylight from two different ways,
which in many ways intersect with each other.
For example, in Saldus Art and music school the architects wanted the look of the clear
facade, so they were using windows with selective glass glazing. This high-performance
glazing allows as much daylight as possible into the rooms while preventing transmission of
as much solar heat as possible. By controlling solar heat gains in summer, preventing loss of
interior heat in winter, and allowing occupants to reduce electric lighting use by making
maximum use of daylight, spectrally selective glazing significantly reduces the buildings
energy consumption and peak demand. So this glazing type somehow improves the indoor
environment, but what about such a problem as glare? As I said, architects were really
focusing on getting clear design, so they didn’t use any kind of sun protecting system to
block it directly from outside, as well weren’t any systems used inside. And now, speaking
with the school staff, they asked to install some indoor roller blinds, because during the day
when sun goes directly in to the rooms it really disturbs the students due to glare.
In Sun stone office building, they had exactly the same problem. The main architectural
concept of the building was to achieve clear outline of the building shape. But these
architects were, opposite the architects of the music and art school, thinking about the
indoor environment and trying to achieve a pleasant working environment. That’s why they
to all windows applied sun protection film that in the summer created indoor comfort by
maintaining an optimum temperature in the rooms and reducing the load on the air
conditioning system by reducing the heat gain. As well were used sunscreen roller blinds,
they allow to maintain view during the daytime, and help reduce heat gain, glare and UV
rays. I think that for panoramic buildings, probably this sunlight reducing systems won’t be
enough to achieve perfect indoor climate and comfort indoor atmosphere. I would rather
have used some outside shading systems to block the sun from outside and light shelves to
direct the light deep into the room through the ceiling.
Considering construction lighting solutions in the library, mostly everything was design in a
proper way according to indoor environment and design pyramid. The only thing that could
be done in a different way to improve the indoor environment is to protect the East part of
the building, where in the morning time sun comes directly inside and then appears such a
problem as glare. But this problem proceeds for about a couple of hours, thereafter it
disappears as the sun path changes. So there should have been used some solar shading
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
system, that would help to get rid of that problem with the morning sun from east even
though the problem occur only for a few hours each day. Due to the building orientation,
skylight systems and window type and orientation, indoor environment and design pyramid
works more than good together and the building has a very nice indoor environment.
After making case study I can definitely state, that contemporary architecture is influenced
by daylight. As we can see from the three case studies architectural design was more
important to the architects than indoor environment quality. This is why there are some
problems, which affect the indoor living and in different ways is inconvenience for the
occupants of the premises. The most important is to remember, that design pyramid and
indoor environment need to be combined together, because they can’t work optimally in
separate manners and should be taken into consideration during all the design process
stages. If at least one of the components, which is described in the theoretical part of this
dissertation, disappears from the chain, then whole system will not work in the proper way.
The light of a building is enormously influenced by daylight and usually architect don’t think
about those things together, but choose the one that think is more important in their project
and try to make it perfect. That is the reason, why afterwards there appear some problems
due to daylight penetration into building or lack of daylight. So if only the architects will
consider daylight in architecture from two perspective; indoor environment and design
pyramid and with the two perspectives at the same level the buildings can be improved and
we will not experience that many problems with the lightning conditions. By seeing the
importance of both things and using them during every design process, in such a way the
architects will be able to create a specific experience of a building and at the same time
optimize the indoor environment.
From the three case studies is has become clear that, yes daylight can be integrated in the
architectural design to create a specific experience of a building and at the same time
optimize the indoor environment. As I see it, the way to do this is to take into account
daylight in even in the very first phases of the building design and then work with it through
every stages of the process until the final design is made. By doing this, the architects can
exploit the benefits from natural light in a way that optimises both the building experiences
for the users and the indoor environment and at the same time avoid the disadvantages of
daylight, such as heat gain, early in the process instead of having to do some “problemreducing-solutions” after the building is erected. These late solutions are never going to be
as good as if they were integrated in the building design in the first place.
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9.List of figures
Ill.6.1.1 Concept of the Daylight in Architecture
Ill.6.1.2 Design pyramid explanation
Ill.6.2.1 Paintings in the cave of Altamira
http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/europe/northern-spain-where-a-road-trip-becomesa-flight-of-fancy-8165645.html?action=gallery&ino=4
Ill. 6.2.1.1 “Parthenon” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parthenon
Ill. 6.2.1.2 Reims cathedral https://schwingeninswitzerland.wordpress.com/tag/reimscathedral/
Ill. 6.2.1.3 Kirillo-Belozersky monastery https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:KirilloBelozersky_Monastery.jpg
Ill.6.3.1 Scheme showing daylight factor meaning
ttps://www.studyblue.com/notes/note/n/environmental-tech/deck/4819855
Ill.6.6.1 Light shelf usage to reduce glare http://www.ecostructures.in/?page_id=2044
Ill.6.6.2.1 Heat-control window film http://www.windowfilm.co.uk/commercial/privacy
Ill.6.7.1.1 Light shelves scheme
Ill.6.7.2.1 Light well scheme
Ill.6.7.3.1 Daylight heliostat
http://www.facepla.net/component/tag/%D0%B3%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%B8%D0%BE%D1%
81%D1%82%D0%B0%D1%82.html
Ill.6.7.4.1 Skylight system
Ill.6.7.4.2 Sun ray angle in a different times of the year
http://www.esrl.noaa.gov/gmd/grad/solcalc/glossary.html
Ill.6.9.1 Depth of adequate daylight with and without light shelves
Ill.6.9.2 Depth of adequate daylight in a different times of the year using light shelves
http://www.wbdg.org/resources/daylighting.php
Ill.6.9.3 Daylight penetration scheme using light shelves system
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/534028468286829714/
Ill.6.9.4 Daylight penetration scheme using skylights and light pipes
Ill.6.9.5 Variation of the central core and double-loaded corridor building forms
Ill.6.10.1 Different building orientation scheme according to sun path
http://sustainabilityworkshop.autodesk.com/buildings/massing-orientation-daylighting
Ill.6.11.1 Winter and summer sun path
http://www.fsec.ucf.edu/en/consumer/buildings/homes/windows/shading.htm
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
Ill.6.11.2 Reducing glazing are scheme
http://www.fsec.ucf.edu/en/consumer/buildings/homes/windows/shading.htm
Ill.6.12.1 Different shading systems
Ill.6.12.1.1 Outdoor roller shutters
Ill.6.12.1.2 Horizontal slats
Ill.6.12.2.1 Sliding shutters
Ill.6.12.3.1 Awnings http://www.samsonawnings.co.uk/domestic-products/sun-awnings/
Ill 7.2.1. Sun stone http://www.uzdevumi.lv/p/latvijas-vesture/6-klase/vesture-tas-petisana8289/re-d692e58c-defc-44ed-9e3c-ec43c397af13
Ill 7.2.2.1 Sun path diagram of the building plot are. 3D view of the site plan
http://www.a4d.lv/lv/raksti/tads_saules_akmens/
Ill. 7.2.2.2 View from the Eastern side http://winpartners.lv/telpas/
Ill. 7.2.2.3 View from the South side http://www.anitra.lv/par-realizetieprojekti.php?s=biroji&id=Swedbank%20Saules%20akmens
Ill. 7.2.2.4 View from the West side https://www.kulturaskarte.lv/lv/eu2015lv/swedbankcentrala-eka-kipsala
Ill.7.2.3.1 An example of the mirror effect. http://www.delfi.lv/skats/zinas/lapsa-rapo-pasaules-akmeni-un-nolaizas-ar-trisi.d?id=45051998
Ill.7.2.3.2 Example of the outside view, where the sunscreen blinds can be seen
http://legantmar.livejournal.com/51895.html
Ill.7.2.3.3 Example of the sunscreen blinds
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqz8HdsRASA
Ill.7.3.1 Silhouette of the building https://www.gaisma.lv/lv/jaunumi/sakusies-latvijasnacionalas-bibliotekas-krajuma-parvesana-uz-gaismas-pili
Ill.7.3.1.1 Window texture example
Ill.7.3.2.1 Sun path diagram of the library plot are. Site plan
http://www.a4d.lv/lv/projekti/latvijas-nacionala-biblioteka/
Ill.7.3.2.2 North-East part of the building http://www.a4d.lv/lv/projekti/latvijas-nacionalabiblioteka/
Ill.7.3.2.3 Marquise – window parasols http://www.a4d.lv/lv/projekti/latvijas-nacionalabiblioteka/
Ill.7.3.2.4 Example of the East part of the building http://www.a4d.lv/lv/projekti/latvijasnacionala-biblioteka/
Ill.7.3.2.5 Blinds for pitched roof windows
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.185541208250452.43553.185521751585731
&type=3
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Daylight as an important architectural element in contemporary architecture
Maria Tkacenko
Ill.7.3.2.6 Roller blinds with aluminium coating textiles http://multisell.lv/musu-objekti/
Ill.7.3.2.7 Example of the skylight system http://www.a4d.lv/lv/projekti/latvijas-nacionalabiblioteka/
Ill.7.4.1 Saldus music and art school http://www.delfi.lv/skats/zudamkokos/jauna-saldusmakslas-un-muzikas-skola-unikals-projekts-baltijas-valstis.d?id=45213286
Ill.7.4.1.1 Exterior wall façade solution http://www.delfi.lv/skats/zudamkokos/jauna-saldusmakslas-un-muzikas-skola-unikals-projekts-baltijas-valstis.d?id=45213286
Ill.7.4.1.2 Lacquered wood windows with selective glass glazing
http://www.fold.lv/2013/05/latvijas-arhitekturas-gada-balva-made-arhitektiem/
Ill.7.4.1.3 Selective window type. Scheme of a transmittance of different rays.
http://greenawindow.com/how-it-works
Ill.7.4.2.1 Sun path diagram of the school plot are. Site plan
http://www.a4d.lv/lv/projekti/saldus_muzikas_un_makslas_skola__made_arhitekti/
Ill.7.4.2.2 First floor plan showing zones http://www.dezeen.com/2013/08/16/saldus-musicand-art-school-by-made/
Ill.7.4.2.3 Art and music school interior example, using two different colors
http://www.dezeen.com/2013/08/16/saldus-music-and-art-school-by-made/
Ill.7.4.3.1Example, when light emphasizes individual parts of the building.
http://www.dezeen.com/2013/08/16/saldus-music-and-art-school-by-made/
Ill.7.4.3.2 Manual shutter placing example http://www.dezeen.com/2013/08/16/saldusmusic-and-art-school-by-made/
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10. List of references
1. Benjamin H. Evans (2007) Daylight in architecture
2. Daylight & architecture magazine by velux.pdf
3.
Daylighting in Schools - An Investigation into the Relationship Between Daylighting
and Human Performance” HESCHONG MAHONE GROUP.pdf
4. http://www.vokrugsveta.ru/vs/article/4415/
5. Russion magazine “Around the world” Article -“Architect looking for a light
http://www.vokrugsveta.ru/vs/article/4415/
6. http://lifeandlight.ru/svet-i-chelovek/istoriya-osveshheniya/nachalo-arhitekturnogoosveshheniya.html
7. http://patternguide.advancedbuildings.net/using-this-guide/analysismethods/daylight-factor
8. http://www.newlearn.info/packages/clear/visual/daylight/analysis/hand/daylight_factor.html
9. “The Benefits of Natural Light” By Kevin Van Den Wymelenberg
http://www.archlighting.com/technology/the-benefits-of-natural-light_o
10. Daylight guide for buildingsby Keith Robertson M. Arch,NSAA,Solterre Design
11. http://sustainabilityworkshop.autodesk.com/buildings/measuring-light-levels
12. http://homeguides.sfgate.com/reduce-sun-glare-windows-33440.html
13. http://oselya.ua/detalies/5-vidov-solncezashchitnyh-konstrukciy#
14. http://zvt.abok.ru/articles/102/Sistemi_estestvennogo_osvechsheniya
15. http://www.abok.ru/for_spec/articles.php?nid=4719
16. http://www.scribd.com/doc/182367765/Daylighting-Guide-for-Buildings-pdf#scribd
17. http://www.fsec.ucf.edu/en/consumer/buildings/homes/windows/shading.htm
18. http://www.oknamedia.ru/spage-publish/section-article/detail-41721.html
19. https://lv.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saules_akmens
20. http://www.a4d.lv/lv/raksti/tads_saules_akmens/
21. http://www.stekloton.com.ua/indexsoln.html
22. http://www2.reynaers.com/SharePointApps/Arch_cat/EN/layer/sys_3010.html
23. http://www.bunnings.com.au/our-services/in-home/custom-blinds/indoorblinds
24. https://www.lnb.lv/
25. https://lv.wikipedia.org/wiki/Latvijas_Nacion%C4%81l%C4%81_bibliot%C4%93ka
26. http://www.a4d.lv/lv/projekti/saldus_muzikas_un_makslas_skola__made_arhitekti/
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