Achieving a balanced use of natural light

If there is one aspect of our architecture that we would describe as crucial, there would be no question that it would be natural light. For many reasons, we have always placed a strong focus on embracing the qualities natural light can bring to a home or commercial property.

The benefits of embracing natural light in architecture are spread across financial, environmental and psychological considerations. The first two of these are quite connected. More natural light means less of a dependence on artificial lighting in a building. When this is achieved, a net consequence is a lower level of energy use, which brings lower costs and less use of resources.

A further link exists between the environmental considerations and the psychological benefits. While studies have shown that people perform and feel better when they experience more natural light than artificial, there’s also the effect it has on the building. Allowing more of the outside world to flow through a building creates the sense that it is a natural part of the environment in which it is located, making for more sustainable and sensitive buildings.

When considering the vast benefits of natural lighting, one might be tempted to assume that success can be achieved by simply incorporating as many windows as possible. However, too much light can cause different problems. A key requirement of any building, whether commercial or residential, is to provide a significant level of shelter and privacy. Exposing as much of the building as possible to natural light would undermine that. The key is to strike the right balance by carefully considering all elements.

Time and again our award winning projects have illustrated our ability to achieve the best use of light in architecture. If you wish to discuss your project with a skilled and qualified architect based in London, get in touch and find out how we can bring beauty, functionality and innovation to the work.