Every year, the debate rages about the clock switching ritual of daylight saving time as we chase the sunlight. We recently experienced the Spring Forward, with all its morning grogginess, sleep deprivation and for some people, the increased likelihood of strokes and heart attacks. That certainly can get us thinking about the effect sunlight has on our overall health. Designing with the idea of illuminating a space with natural light, in the jargon of architecture, is called daylighting.
Daylighting is one of the elements of green building design because it relies on natural light that can save energy. This is accomplished by carefully planning for optimum light through window placement, which can create the best access to ambient light. Solar tubes are another option. They can provide natural light and lessen reliance on electric lighting. In homes designed to capture the most natural light, even the arrangement of furniture and the window-shading systems can help residents take control of their environment. Electric lighting supplements natural light, rather than the other way around.
Are window views different than daylighting?
Yes, and they provide different benefits. Window views focus on just that – the view from your window. When that view takes in a view of nature, whether it includes trees, rolling hills or a view of the ocean, you feel more connected to nature. That connection can produce a sense of well-being, lower our blood pressure and increase levels of concentration. The list goes on, but this is a good start. When you consider, on average, most of us spend about 90% of our time indoors, it shouldn’t surprise us. Perhaps, because we evolved from a time when we all spent much more time outdoors, something in us still craves that connection.
Utilizing natural light comes with a number of benefits.
Sunlight provides vitamin D, which is essential to bone health and helps your body use important minerals.
According to WebMD, the benefits of moderate amounts of sunlight also include:
- Reduces the risk of developing some autoimmune diseases
- Promotes better sleep by helping to regulate your internal clock
- Helps boost seratonin, which can promote emotional health
- May reduce the risk of nearsightedness
If you are looking for ways to embrace the light in your new building project or remodel, we’d love to discuss creative ways to make it happen.