Daylight and window view quality for visual comfort: the case of an office building in Jaffna

Architectural lighting is now simple and emotionless due to modern technological innovations, which makes it difficult to recognise the distinct character of a place. With the development of air conditioning and artificial lighting systems, architects are more inclined to adopt them than to design equivalent spaces in natural light, thus, taking advantage of ideal lighting conditions to raise the quality of space.

The major difference between artificial light and daylight is the “view”, daylight integration systems offer. This is a research initiative to ascertain the perceptual influence of daylight and ‘window view quality’ in achieving visual comfort. With this in mind, a single case study is investigated, thereby involving like-minded respondents that engage in a similar work programme. As a limitation of scope, an environmentally rated building in a specific locality – Jaffna – is selected. Post Occupancy Evaluation forms the primary method adopted. Mapping of the space is undertaken, together with Perceptual Spatial Analysis (PERCIFAL) surveys, and correlate responses to the physically observed spaces.

Results show the occupants agree that natural light is the preferred mode of lighting for the workspace. Although the window views are deemed to enrich the working environment, the emphasis on its preference does not strongly correlate among all respondents. Conclusions are drawn on the parameters surveyed - that drive window view quality and daylight perception - to form implications for design both as individual elements and as a whole, to achieve overall visual comfort within a specific office environment.