Visual aspects of sunlight in buildings

Abstract

It is generally taken for granted that people like sunshine inside buildings, provided thermal and visual discomfort are avoided. Obviously the degree to which sunshine is liked is dependent on climate, tradition and sometimes on prejudice. It is a common practice in building design to deal with the thermal aspects of sunshine and their control, while visual aspects of sunlight are not adequately considered. Recent studies have indicated that as a result of the trend towards improved thermal comfort in buildings, the visual aspects of sunlight have assumed a higher degree of importance for the well being of occupants. Further studies have been made of the effect of the presence of sunlight and also of the degree of exposure of occupants to the Sun.