Good design is all about incorporating the right elements to create an inviting and comfortable environment. Natural light is one of those elements that has a huge impact on the overall look and feel of a space. The incorporation of natural light in the design of commercial buildings has numerous benefits, not just for the occupants but also for the environment.
Natural light can help create a more energizing and inviting atmosphere, while also reducing energy costs and creating a healthier living environment. Consider these top 5 benefits while designing buildings:
- Improved Health
One of the significant benefits of incorporating natural light into architectural design is the health benefits it provides to occupants and reduced absenteeism. Considering the average person spends approximately 90% of their life indoors, natural light architecture is vital to a healthy population.
Several studies have shown that natural light can positively impact the physical and mental health of occupants. Natural light can reduce stress levels, improve moods, enhance sleep quality, and lead to a healthier lifestyle. Studies have shown that routine exposure to natural light can also reduce the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which can lead to fewer absences during the winter months.
Overall, people who get natural light throughout the day have fewer health problems than those who don’t.
- Increased Productivity
Research has shown that natural light can increase productivity in the workplace. Natural light can positively impact the cognitive performance of employees while reducing eyestrain and the headaches often associated with artificial lighting, leading to a more comfortable work environment. Additionally, natural light exposure has been linked to increased motivation, creativity, and overall job satisfaction. So much so, that in 2018, the Harvard Business Review shared “Natural Light” as the No. 1 Office Perk
- Energy Efficiency
Natural light is a free and sustainable source of light. Incorporating natural light into architectural design – including decorative glass , architectural windows, dynamic glass, and structural glazing – can significantly reduce energy consumption and lower carbon emissions.
In commercial buildings, the use of artificial lighting is one of the biggest energy expenses. Proper use of natural light can reduce this energy consumption by up to 40% and enhances a building’s overall “green score.” Sustainably built, energy-efficient buildings are increasingly important in the commercial real estate market, with building codes across the country outlining new stringent standards to help reduce carbon footprint and energy usage.
- Aesthetic Appeal
Natural light can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of commercial buildings. It can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, creating a sense of openness and space, and making the building more attractive to potential customers and clients. Natural light can also highlight unique architectural features and design elements to help the building stand apart.
For a better understanding of the impact natural light can make, take a moment to peruse recent T.FIN Building Solutions projects here .
- Increased Property Value
Incorporating natural light into commercial architectural design can also increase the property’s value. Buildings designed to maximize natural light are becoming increasingly popular, with tenants and buyers willing to pay a premium for buildings that offer natural light and other sustainable features.
A comprehensive study focused on the residential market in September 2022 showed that an extra hour of sunlight per day is directly associated with an increase of 2.4% in a property’s sale price. As more and more businesses prioritize sustainability and well-being, both residential and commercial buildings prioritizing natural light architecture will only continue to increase in value.
Incorporating natural light into commercial architectural design has numerous benefits, with the top five being improved health, energy efficiency and sustainability, increased productivity, and aesthetic appeal. Architects need to consider these benefits when designing commercial buildings to stay on trend and in demand.
T.FIN Building Solutions can help you navigate the natural light architectural design process and product selection, with validation and technical due diligence. We have partnered with high-end, select quality, innovative and time-tested daylighting and glazing products to meet and exceed any project design goals. To learn more, visit us at www.tfinbuildingsolutions.com.