Embracing Daylighting

by Stacy Rinella | August 20, 2023 2:53 pm

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Architects and specifiers constantly seek innovative solutions to create spaces that seamlessly integrate nature and enhance the occupant experience. In the realm of biophilic design, daylighting plays a pivotal role in achieving these goals. Rolling or sectional closures optimize the benefits of natural light, providing architects with a powerful tool to create captivating environments that prioritize the health and comfort of occupants. The seamless integration of the indoors and outdoors fosters a sense of unity with the environment, enabling occupants enjoy the benefits of daylight.

 

Optimizing the potential
of daylighting

Daylighting transcends the mere provision of natural light; it encompasses a myriad of benefits that elevate the architectural experience. Research demonstrates that exposure to natural light improves mood, enhances productivity, and contributes to better sleep quality and concentration levels. Incorporating rolling or sectional closures into spaces designed for frequent use—such as restaurants, retail outlets, event spaces, and more—allows architects to maximize daylighting to create environments that inspire and invigorate occupants, while also serving the purely functional need for security after hours.

Even when closed, rolling grilles and full-view sectional doors act as conduits for an abundance of natural light. These doors ensure that daylight floods the interior, providing occupants with the invigorating effects of sunlight throughout the day. By diffusing natural light, these closures enhance visual comfort, reduce reliance on artificial lighting, and imbue the space with a sense of airiness and expansiveness.

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Choosing the right door
for aesthetics and comfort

In addition to their impressive daylighting capabilities, rolling or sectional closures contribute to the overall aesthetics and comfort of biophilic design.

Rolling grilles lend to an industrial style and have the practical ability to coil into small spaces. They’re ideal for environments where headroom space is limited.

Stacking varieties of sectional doors boast a sleek and modern appearance, void of visible hinges, tracks, or cables. The stacked sections can be securely locked into place, preserving the clean lines and uninterrupted visual flow of the doors. Further, the option to recess these closures into the ceiling creates a clear and uncluttered expanse above, optimizing space utilization and maintaining the architectural integrity of the design.

When selecting the ideal rolling or sectional closure for biophilic design, it is paramount to prioritize the well-being and comfort of occupants, beyond daylighting. It’s also critical that architects search for closures that can be customized with insulated rails and stiles, or glazing options that are made for energy efficiency.

Architects and specifiers can further customize the closure solution by selecting from a wide range of full-view selections in glass, acrylic and polycarbonate options. These closures are available in various anodized aluminum or paint finishes, empowering architects to tailor the design to meet individual specifications while upholding the principles of daylighting and biophilic aesthetics.

When it comes to specifying products, some manufacturers offer design portals that are valuable, time-saving specification resources. They offer a comprehensive online platform that includes data sheets, specification documents and BIM object libraries. These portals provide architects and specifiers with easy access to a range of information needed to make informed decisions. Optimal portals are characterized by user-friendly navigation and useful tools that aid in selecting products that align with the desired application and design objectives while complying with building ordinances.

 

Let there be light

Above all, rolling or sectional closures represent an asset that allows architects and specifiers to optimize daylighting to forge a deeper connection between occupants and nature. By skillfully integrating these closures into our biophilic designs, we create captivating environments that elevate the architectural experience.

By strategically utilizing daylight, we inspire well-being, boost productivity, and create spaces that harmoniously blend with the natural world. By capitalizing on the possibilities offered by rolling or sectional doors, one can harness the transformative power of daylight to elevate the occupants’ experience and create captivating architectural spaces

Heather Bender is the director of commercial product marketing at Clopay Corp., Mason, Ohio. To learn more, visit www.clopaydoor.com.

Source URL: https://www.metalarchitecture.com/products/embracing-daylighting/

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