An introduction to the transformative power of daylighting

An introduction to daylighting

Daylighting design and analysis is the strategic use of natural light to illuminate interior space, reduce the need for artificial lighting and lower energy consumption. Its goal is to create environments that maximise natural light through well-considered layouts, glazing, reflective material specification and more.

Daylight is intangible and profoundly experiential. Its clear benefits, visible effects and measurable nature make it foundational in architecture. Beyond a design feature, daylight shapes how we feel, physically and mentally, through its interaction with space. Studies show that exposure to natural light can significantly improve mood, increase productivity and enhance overall health. It is the number one quality that employees ask for in their environments. At the same time, optimising it meaningfully offers opportunities to reduce energy and greenhouse gas emissions.

Why daylighting design and analysis matter

The link between natural light, health and productivity is well established. Research highlights its wide-ranging benefits, demonstrating how it influences various aspects of physiology and behaviour. From mood enhancement to improved cognitive function, exposure to natural light plays a critical role in supporting our wellbeing.

Here are some key areas where it can have most impact:

• Health: Circadian regulation and neurochemical synthesis.
  Exposure to natural light synchronises circadian rhythms, crucial for maintaining optimal sleep patterns and physiological health. Additionally, natural light serves as a crucial source of vitamin D, vital for bone health, immune function and risk reduction of multiple health conditions, including depression and certain autoimmune diseases. By enhancing serotonin production, exposure to daylight is linked to easing conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder and improving mood and emotional wellbeing.

• Environmental impact: Resource efficiency and carbon reduction.
  Implementing daylighting design strategies significantly reduces reliance on artificial lighting, leading to a substantial decrease in electricity consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions. This conservation effort aligns with sustainable building practices and global carbon reduction targets. Daylighting techniques in architecture and design can be considered conservation efforts that align with sustainable building practices and global carbon reduction targets.

• Economics: Productivity and operational cost efficiency.
  Research indicates that workplaces using daylighting design strategies often see higher productivity and lower absenteeism. Daylighting also brings economic benefits. It reduces reliance on artificial lighting and HVAC systems, which lowers energy costs while improving employee performance. Making use of natural light can save up to 75% of the combined energy used for lighting buildings and also reduces cooling costs.

• Societal impact: Biological and community synchronisation.
  Exposure to natural light helps sychronise our internal clocks with the solar day, enhancing individual and community wellbeing. This alignment supports daily performance, reduces stress and nurtures connection and sense of belonging.

Designing with daylight

To make the most of natural daylight in architecture and design, it’s critical to consider its measurable and experiential qualities. This includes its influence on health, mood and cellular function. Understanding its impact on wellbeing, safety and how we perceive space means looking at it through a human and technical lens. We use Annual Sunlight Exposure (ASE) and Spatial Daylight Autonomy (sDA) metrics to quantify the amount of natural light a space receives.

For daylighting in office buildings, we also assess how design elements like material choices and spatial arrangement influence these metrics. By employing strategies such as using high Light Reflection Value (LRV) materials and maximising natural light access, we aim to transform spaces into nurturing and inspiring environments —approaches that are critical in enhancing occupants’ quality of life.

To discuss tailored daylight optimisation solutions for your workplace, contact our integrated team of architects, workplace designers and engineers.