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Daylighting refers to the strategic use of natural light to illuminate indoor spaces, reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Thermal comfort involves maintaining indoor temperatures within an optimal range, minimizing discomfort caused by excessive heat gain or loss.
Balancing these factors in facade design requires a combination of advanced materials, strategic planning, and technological innovations. With our expertise, we help our clients achieve this balance efficiently.
The window-to-wall ratio (WWR) determines how much glazing is used relative to the total wall area. A well-balanced WWR (typically 30-40%) allows sufficient daylight penetration while minimizing heat gain or loss. Excessive glazing can cause overheating, while too little may lead to inadequate lighting.
High-performance glazing materials, such as Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, spectrally selective coatings, and insulated glazing units, help regulate solar heat gain while maintaining optimal daylight transmission. These materials enhance energy efficiency by reducing cooling and heating demands.
Shading systems such as automated blinds, electrochromic glass, and external louvers adapt to changing light and temperature conditions. These elements help reduce glare, prevent excessive heat build-up, and optimize indoor lighting conditions without blocking natural light completely.
Light shelves are horizontal elements placed above windows to reflect natural light deeper into the building’s interior. Combined with reflective ceiling surfaces, they enhance daylight distribution, reducing reliance on artificial lighting while preventing direct glare.
Atriums and skylights provide vertical daylight penetration, bringing natural light to deeper areas of the building. When designed with appropriate glazing and shading solutions, they improve indoor illumination while mitigating excessive heat gain or loss.
Proper insulation in facade materials reduces heat transfer between the interior and exterior. Materials such as insulated panels, aerogels, and high-performance cladding help maintain stable indoor temperatures, improving comfort and energy efficiency.
Passive design strategies, such as overhangs, brise-soleil, and external shading elements, help manage solar radiation effectively. By blocking direct sunlight in summer while allowing heat gain in winter, these strategies enhance year-round thermal comfort.
A double-skin facade consists of two glass layers with a ventilated air cavity in between. This system enhances insulation, reduces heat transfer, and improves natural ventilation, helping regulate temperature fluctuations while lowering energy consumption.
PCMs store and release thermal energy by changing states (from solid to liquid and vice versa). Integrated into facade panels, they absorb excess heat during the day and release it at night, stabilizing indoor temperatures and reducing HVAC loads.
Designing facades with operable windows, ventilation corridors, and stack-effect principles encourages air movement, reducing dependence on mechanical cooling. Properly planned natural ventilation improves indoor air quality and comfort while lowering energy costs.
At ISE, we specialize in facade designs that integrate both daylighting and thermal comfort principles to create energy-efficient and comfortable indoor environments. By adopting best practices in glazing, shading, insulation, and ventilation, we help our clients enhance occupant well-being while reducing energy costs.
If you’re looking to optimize daylighting and thermal comfort in your building, contact & partner with ISE Façade Consultancy for innovative and sustainable facade solutions tailored to your needs.
To explore ISE Façade Consultancy expertise, visit https://www.ise.group/services
