Better Light, Better Schools

  • By David Velarde
  • 03/01/17

There was once a time when windows were primarily viewed as an opportunity for distractions amongst youngsters. Walk into a classroom built circa 1970 and there is decent chance small windows will line the walls. This was before the benefits of daylighting, designing to get the most out of natural light, became apparent.

Of course there is the obvious benefit. More light coming in through the windows means less of a need for artificial light, equating to a lower power bill. Obviously this is better for the environment as well; however, the benefits of natural lighting extend beyond the fiscal. For example, daylighting has also been shown to increase student testing scores and performance. Further, artificial lighting has been found to increase fatigue and levels of stress amongst students. Day-to-day this can have a compounding effect, leading to long-term negative outcomes on our youth. On top of which, increases in natural lighting have been linked to higher attendance rates among students. Ultimately, daylighting leads to a more positive school environment.

When implementing daylighting techniques, a best practice is to install reflective floors to get the most out of the light coming in; however, it is important to take glare into consideration as to not distract students. Also, higher windows are the most effective in allowing the optimum amount of light into the classroom. Thoughtfully placed skylights can be particularly effective, especially in interior rooms which lack window accessibility. Brightly colored interiors can go a step further in leveraging natural light to its fullest potential.

The benefits of daylighting are readily apparent; however, proper steps should be taken in the design phase to ensure students and faculty receive the maximum benefits that come once you let the natural light in.

This article originally appeared in the issue of .

About the Author

David Velarde is the Operations director of the Mountain Region for Gordian. He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • AP Construction Breaks Ground on Two Projects for Austin ISD

    Adolfson & Peterson Construction (AP) recently announced that it has broken ground on two renovation projects for the Austin Independent School District, according to a news release. The work at McCallum and Anderson High Schools totals 97,350 square feet and is scheduled for completion in January 2027.

  • Image credit: O

    Strategic Campus Assessment: Moving Beyond Reactive Maintenance in Educational Facilities

    While campuses may appear stable on the surface, building systems naturally evolve over time, and proactive assessment can identify developing issues before they become expensive emergencies. The question isn't whether aging educational facilities need attention. It's how institutions can transition from costly reactive maintenance to strategic asset management in a way that protects both budgets and communities.

  • Armstrong World Industries Acquires Geometrik

    Armstrong World Industries, designer and manufacturer of interior and exterior architectural applications like ceilings, walls, and metal solutions, recently announced its acquisition of Canada-based Geometrik, according to a news release. The British Columbian Geometrik specializes in designing and manufacturing wood acoustical and wall systems.

  • University of West Florida Opens New Laboratory Facility

    The University of West Florida recently announced that renovation work is complete on a new lab building for its campus in Pensacola, Fla., according to university news. Building 80 will serve as the home to the university’s civil engineering program and the Tyler Chase Norwood Construction Management Program.

Digital Edition