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Why Maximize Office Daylighting?

11/29/2021

Benefits of Daylighting

Increased use of natural light has been associated with reduced eye strain, improved mood, and lower fatigue for occupants while also lowering energy costs by reducing the need for artificial light. According to the EPA, Americans on average spend approximately 90% of their time indoors. A survey by an HR advisory firm published in the Harvard Business Review shows access to natural light is the number one attribute workers want in their office environment.  Thus, natural light is important in designing or updating workspaces.

Achieving a good balance between natural and artificial is an ongoing challenge. Artificial light is generally the same all day, but natural light changes throughout the day and year, and with the change in weather. Keeping a balance between natural light and artificial light is constantly changing. However, it is possible to incorporate more natural light and optimize whatever daylight is available.

Five ways to increase natural light:

  1. Location, location, location. Redesigning desk, work area, and meeting space layouts to better access the natural light.
  2. Obstructions. Re-locate any larger objects like shelves, bookcases, or displays, as that may block external light sources.
  3. Reflective light. For interior design, target 85% reflectivity on the ceiling and 60% reflectivity on the walls, and go darker on the flooring to reduce reflectivity.
  4. Zone Lighting. Where appropriate, scale back the artificial lighting in spaces that receive adequate natural light.
  5. Skylights. In spaces that do not receive natural daylight, consider using skylights.

Increasing the use of daylighting in an existing building can be a challenge, but the energy savings and effects on occupants can be well worth it. Commercial windows influence both natural lighting and personal comfort. Choosing the correct window for your building is key to controlling your building’s lighting and thermal comfort. Contact us today to find out what window suits your business needs.

At St. Cloud Window we know every project begins with a challenge or an idea of what a building might be. We bring that vision to life with our distinctive design aesthetics, precision performance, and design-to-delivery support. Learn more about how our products can deliver on your design objectives and site requirements here. Then, check out our full line of historic replica and acoustic window products, and get in touch for more details about any of our high-performing commercial window products.