Basics of Daylighting in a Green Environment

4.2 Building Orientation

Building orientation is important for any daylight design relying on sidelighting.

  • South-facing windows are generally considered the most desirable. Light is most abundant in this orientation but can vary throughout the day.
  • North exposure is typically considered the next most desirable orientation. Light is less plentiful but more uniform. Consider high performance glazing to reduce thermal losses during heating conditions.
  • East and west facing windows are generally avoided. They can generate large solar gains and frequently require complex shading systems that can block vision glazing.

Property of

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