OPTIMIZING DAYLIGHTING IN THE DESIGN OF PROPOSED EXPOSITION CENTER

(A CASE STUDY OF ABUJA)

By

Author

Presented To

Department of Environmental Design

ABSTRACT
Getting light into the building entity in a clever way is an important stride to designing energy efficient buildings. Learning how to use daylighting, in an efficient way while having control will reduce energy demands in buildings and also facilitate a good visual comfort for users especially in a developing country like Nigeria where most trade fare take place using artificial lighting which increases operational cost. Most Exposition tend to use artificial lighting because proper daylighting design has not been integrated into the building. This study identifies different daylighting techniques that will reduce operational cost and at the same time, create a good visual experience. Literature on daylighting were studied, in which the advantages of daylighting in buildings were identified, different daylighting techniques and system were examined and various ways daylighting can reduce operational cost. The research methods adopted where exploratory case study, experimentation, visual survey of the various features inclined to the research work. Quantitative data collection method where adopted through personal observation /field survey, sketches, photographs and case study check list as data collection instrument. Case studies of relevant exhibition Centre buildings were analysed using variables such as the building envelope shape, geometry and location of aperture, surface characteristics, special distribution of light, illuminance ratio, colour rendition and visual noise, model of three case study buildings were carried out and run through simulation soft wares such as Ecotect, Radiance and daysim using data from metrological department. The various material properties used in the modelled building under observation where altered in terms of their “u-factor” “R-value” and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) and it was observed that energy consumption in terms of lighting was reduced by 35%. An important finding of the research was that a conscious proposition that will fuse daylighting as a major design consideration in term of materials and design considerations is essential for a successful daylighting design for buildings. This finding affects the design process from optimizing building orientation, the perfect size, form and glazing treatment for windows, working with bright interior surface and shading for visual comfort. For the research design, atrium, laminated glass, and light shelves was appropriate for use. The implication of this finding opens a new dimension to the design of Exposition centres.