Daylighting

Published February 2000

To be effective, daylighting does not simply provide daylight. Daylight must be properly directed into interior spaces, and the intensity and quantity must be controlled. What is true of artificial light is also true of daylighting: a unit of light coming from the side, providing good contrast, is worth three units of light overhead. Properly daylit buildings will save owners money by reducing energy costs at peak demand, but even greater benefits may result from the aesthetic effects of daylit spaces. Productivity may be enhanced by the improved working environment. See also Daylight Control.