Facade Photometry: Linking Annual Daylight Performance to Facade Design

Abstract

This concept paper illustrates a new simulation method to assess how building facades distribute light into interior spaces and how data from simulation studies can inform design for better facade performance. Facade photometry, a term developed by the authors, uses annual simulations and localized weather data to create temporally based illuminance and luminance distributions. This photometric chart is a unique signature of a particular facade design measured at a specific point in a specific climate. By linking data from the daylight simulation to the facade, the areas of the facade that need to be adjusted for improved performance are highlighted. Facade photometry is intended to allow designers to easily compare the performance of complex building geometry and daylight control systems, thus becoming an efficient tool to further aid designers in creating highly energy-efficient, high-performance, and comfortable building facades.