The Effects of Natural Light Control
Control of the amount of natural light entering a space -- sometimes referred to as daylighting -- can make all the difference to its overall look and feel. There are numerous methods of controlling natural light, each with its own specific effect or effects.
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Glazing
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The most effective way to increase the amount of natural light entering a space is to increase the number and/or size of the windows. You do, however, need to check the visible transmittance -- a measure of the amount of visible light transmitted -- of the glazing material that you use. If the visible transmittance is low due to shaded windows, consider increasing the light let into the room by replacing the glass in the windows with glazing that allows in more light.
Reflectance
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If increasing the glazing area is not an option, you can significantly increase natural light in a space by increasing the reflectance values of the surface within it. Window sills and other woodwork can be painted with gloss paint to reflect light. Ceilings and walls should be painted or otherwise covered with material that achieves 80 percent and 50 percent reflectance respectively, according to the National Institute of Building Sciences.
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Shading
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The amount of light entering a space can be reduced, or diffused, by internal or external shading devices such as curtains, blinds or louvers. These devices typically also reduce the heat gain in the space.
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