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The Effect of Building Orientation on Indoor Daylight Quality

Abstract

Building orientation is an important architectural consideration that influences the amount, distribution, and quality of daylight entering interior spaces. The position of a building relative to the sun's path affects solar exposure, window performance, glare, and the distribution of natural illumination throughout occupied areas. Appropriate orientation can improve daylight availability while reducing excessive solar heat gain and dependence on artificial lighting. Understanding this relationship is therefore important for developing comfortable and energy-efficient buildings. This study examines the effect of building orientation on indoor daylight quality, focusing on how different orientations influence the distribution and intensity of natural light within interior spaces. The study considers variations in façade orientation, window placement, room depth, glazing area, and spatial configuration. Daylight quality is assessed in relation to illumination levels, uniformity, visual comfort, glare, and the availability of daylight in different areas of the building. The interaction between building orientation and window design is particularly important. The size, position, and proportions of windows can determine how effectively daylight penetrates interior spaces under different orientations. External shading devices, overhangs, louvers, vegetation, and adjacent buildings can further modify daylight conditions by controlling direct solar exposure and reducing excessive brightness. These elements therefore need to be considered together during the design process. The study also considers the relationship between daylight quality and occupant experience. Adequate and well-distributed daylight can support visual tasks, reduce dependence on artificial lighting, and contribute to a more pleasant indoor environment. Conversely, excessive direct sunlight, glare, uneven illumination, and high contrast between bright and dark areas can cause visual discomfort. Building orientation should therefore aim not simply to maximize daylight but to achieve a balanced and usable distribution of natural light. Climatic conditions and site characteristics can significantly influence the effectiveness of building orientation strategies. Solar angles, seasonal variations, surrounding structures, vegetation, and local weather conditions can alter daylight availability throughout the year. In dense urban environments, neighbouring buildings may obstruct daylight regardless of the intended orientation. These factors highlight the need for context-specific daylight analysis during architectural planning. The study aims to assess the relationship between building orientation and indoor daylight quality and identify orientation strategies that support effective natural illumination and visual comfort. The findings are expected to provide useful guidance for architects, building designers, and environmental consultants in developing daylight-responsive buildings. The study can contribute to reduced artificial lighting demand, improved visual comfort, enhanced indoor environmental quality, and more energy-efficient architectural design.

Keywords: Building orientation, Indoor daylight quality, Daylighting, Visual comfort, Natural illumination, Solar exposure, Window design, Daylight distribution, Glare control, Building performance, Energy efficiency, Shading devices, Sustainable design, Daylight-responsive architecture.