California already has begun the process of daylighting mandates through its Title 24 energy codes, requiring the use of daylight technologies and controls in certain commercial building space types. The process must be launched carefully on a larger scale, ensuring that codes and requirements provide up-to-date language that embraces new technologies. All too often, codes focus on the old “tried and true” methods, blocking the appropriate use of innovative new technologies. Widespread adoption for daylighting is right around the corner. It’s about time.
NANCY CLANTON | PRINCIPAL | CLANTON & ASSOCIATES
YES! Daylighted buildings not only reduce our dependence on energy, but provide beauty and enjoyment of interior spaces. For years research has shown the advantages of daylight on people’s well-being. Heschong Mahone Group has shown increased student test scores in daylighted classrooms, increased sales in daylighted retail stores, and productivity increases for office workers with quality views of the outside. Judith Heerwagen in her paper “Investing In People: The Social Benefits of Sustainable Design” states improved health outcomes including well-being, less stress, improved cognitive performance, and improved work and life satisfaction when building designs incorporate a connection to nature and incorporation of daylight and sunlight in buildings.
We have all experienced our preference for daylighted rooms with quality views. Integrating the electric lighting to respond to the daylight will provide further benefits in reducing energy use.
It has been only since the 1970s when buildings were not designed with daylight. Poor glazing options led to the attitude that windows resulted in more energy usage. Now with superior glazing options, windows once again can be incorporated into low-energy buildings.