The Natural Benefits of Biophilic D...
Friday, April 27, 2018
Thursday, June 14, 2012
By
In Sustainability, Design
After the move in:
Sunlight is such a powerful thing. Everyone that we talk to about new space requests a lot of natural light. In designing our new building, we were no different. Large expanses of glass permit us views of our surroundings. From inside the building, we see sunlight, blue skies, grey skies and even storms, all of which connect us with the world around us. After we moved into our new building, there was a huge difference in the quality of life at work. One of the Architects in our office posted on Facebook: "Our new office rocks!" People enjoy being in such a light filled pleasant space.
But sunlight can have a negative effect on people as well. Harsh sunlight and high glare on someone trying to work on the computer results in discomfort and fatigue. When we first moved into our new building, we had many sunny days before our shades went up on the east and south facing windows. This led to sunglasses, headaches and loss of productivity. The shades that were installed keep 97% of the light out of the building, while still allowing you to see outside.
Once the shades were installed, the sunglasses came off, headaches disappeared and productivity returned. Natural light is great but too much sunlight and glare can cause problems. Balance is the key!
Matt Sutter
SōL Harris/Day Architecture
msutter@harrisday.com
330.493.3722
Anatomy of Our Team
Glass: United Architectural Metals 330.433.9220 - www.unitedarchitectural.com
Sun Shades: Draper, Inc.
Art Tober (atober@Draperinc.com)
586.416.0829 - www.draperinc.com
Sun Shade Installers: M.A.K. Associates
330.634.0500
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