1. Orientation: Proper orientation of buildings can increase the intake of natural light. Reduce the amount of direct sunlight during the hottest months and take advantage of it during the cooler months.
2. Skylights and clerestory windows: Skylights and clerestory windows are great ways to bring natural light into a building. They can be placed in strategic locations to maximize light distribution.
3. Light shelves: Light shelves are horizontal surfaces that bounce light into the building. They can be used to reflect light deeper into the building or to redirect light to areas that need it.
4. Reflections: Using materials that reflect light can help distribute natural light in a building. Light colored walls, floors and ceilings can all add to natural light.
5. Atriums and courtyards: Atriums and courtyards can help bring natural light deep into a building. They are popular in larger buildings with large open spaces.
6. Window placement: Proper placement of windows can be a very effective strategy for maximizing natural light. By placing windows on opposite sides of a room, natural light can be diffused across the entire space.
7. Light tubes: Light tubes can be used to bring natural light into spaces where a skylight or clerestory window cannot be achieved. Tubes can be fitted through walls or roofs to bring natural light into a building.
8. Smart lighting control systems: The use of smart lighting systems can help make the most of natural light by dimming artificial lights and adjusting the brightness of the light as the amount of natural light changes throughout the day.
Publication date: