The design of window shades and fenestration for view clarity

Abstract

The ability to discern the content of the view through a window is referred to as view clarity. It is often overlooked in the design process, and the methods of shading daylight can affect window views. We conducted a narrative review of building standards and the scientific literature to better understand how shades can be designed so as to retain the window view. View clarity was characterised by three main dimensions: (1) the shading solution, (2) the view content and (3) the observer. Each dimension and the interactions between them influence view clarity. These interactions make it difficult to predict view clarity for all the situations that can occur in buildings. Nonetheless, we highlighted the effects of different shades on the view clarity. Our insights can help designers consider these impacts within the context of overall window design.