At the National Lighting Bureau’s (NLB’s) Annual Lighting Forum, panelists Sara Lappano, PE, LC, LEED AP (SmithGroupJJR), Brent Protzman, PhD, LC (Lutron Electronics), and Seth Warren Rose (Eneref Institute) delved into the effect of daylighting on office workers’ health and productivity. This is a consideration with significant potential to shape the built environment.
For instance, Rose said a study of usage levels of five libraries in Berkeley, California, revealed the facility with the poorest daylighting saw the lowest use. This same library became Berkeley’s most popular after a daylighting-focused renovation.
Lappano and Protzman explored the complexity of daylighting, with Lappano emphasizing the importance of a coordinated team approach supported by the architect, lighting designer, and mechanical and electrical engineers. She further stressed it is important for the team to keep in mind more daylighting does not equate to better daylighting, and can even have negative effects on lighting quality. Protzman also noted the team’s solution should be developed as early as possible in the project.
These two panelists also discussed daylighting’s effects on building design and its costs. For instance, Lappano noted a tendency toward ‘slimmer’ buildings allowing comprehensive views to the exterior. Protzman also observed that while a daylighting-focused design can cost more to build, it also justifies higher prices for space acquisition.
To watch the panel—moderated by Randy Reid, EdisonReport editor and publisher—see the video above.
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