Begin with orientation
Daylight changes throughout the day. Before deciding on the size of an opening, study where the sun comes from, what neighbouring buildings block and when the room will be used. A large window is not automatically a better window.
Balance light with comfort
Direct sun can introduce glare and unwanted heat. Shading, recesses and carefully placed openings can help balance brightness with comfort. The right solution depends on the site and should be tested during design.
Let surfaces do some of the work
Light-coloured surfaces can distribute daylight deeper into a room. Matte finishes often create a gentler experience than highly reflective surfaces. Consider walls, ceilings and the placement of tall furniture together.
Design for the evening too
A room still needs to work after sunset. Layer ambient, task and accent light so each activity has appropriate illumination without making the entire room uniformly bright.
