In the heart of Indonesia, a groundbreaking study is shedding new light on how to optimize classroom design for better daylight performance, with significant implications for the energy sector. Led by Atthaillah from the Architecture Program at Universitas Malikussaleh, this research is set to revolutionize the way we think about facade design in tropical regions.
The study, published in the Journal of Daylighting, focuses on classrooms with bilateral openings—windows on both the east and west sides—and an adjacent building on the west side. This configuration is common in many Indonesian urban classrooms, where buildings often block out natural light. “Many classrooms in Indonesia face this challenge,” Atthaillah explains. “By optimizing the facade design, we can significantly improve daylight performance and visual comfort, which in turn can lead to substantial energy savings.”
The research team used advanced computational simulations to analyze various facade design variables, including external horizontal shading depth, shading elevation, window-to-wall ratio (WWR), and the distance to the adjacent building. The simulations were conducted using Ladybug Tools and Radiance under Grasshopper, providing a comprehensive analysis of annual visual comfort and daylight performance.
One of the key findings is the identification of the three most influential design variables: horizontal shading depth, shading elevation, and WWR on the east facade. The optimal design solution suggests a horizontal shading depth and shading elevation of 2.6 meters and 2.7 meters, respectively, with a WWR of 10% on both the east and west facades. Additionally, the study recommends maintaining a distance of 0.5 meters from the edge of the external shading on the west side to the adjacent building.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For the energy sector, optimizing daylight performance in classrooms can lead to significant energy savings by reducing the need for artificial lighting. This not only lowers operational costs but also contributes to sustainability goals. “By implementing these design optimizations, we can create more energy-efficient buildings that are also more comfortable for occupants,” Atthaillah notes.
The study’s findings are particularly relevant for tropical regions, where daylight performance is crucial for both comfort and energy efficiency. As more buildings are constructed in these areas, the demand for optimized facade designs will only increase. This research provides a roadmap for architects and builders to create more sustainable and comfortable learning environments.
The research, published in the Journal of Daylighting, translates to English as the Journal of Daylighting, is a significant step forward in the field of daylighting and facade design. As we look to the future, it is clear that optimizing daylight performance will be a key factor in creating sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. This study by Atthaillah and the team at Universitas Malikussaleh is paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.