DAYLIGHT & SUNLIGHT / PLANNING
A specialist solar consideration within the daylight and sunlight service.
As part of our wider daylight and sunlight planning advice, we assess whether curved or reflective building forms may concentrate sunlight in particular locations, potentially creating heat, comfort or health and safety concerns. In simple terms, the geometry of a façade can create a magnifying-glass type effect, intensifying reflected solar rays at a focal point. Solar convergence is a different physical effect from ordinary sunlight availability or ordinary glare, but it belongs within the same overarching consultancy discipline.
We consider whether the form and reflecting surfaces of a development could create locations at which solar radiation becomes concentrated, intensifying sunlight rather than simply reflecting it. Issues identified early may be more readily addressed through changes to design, geometry or materials.
Assessment can consider the building geometry, the potential focal behaviour of reflected rays and the affected locations, with the appropriate analytical scope tailored to the risks and the stage of design.
Findings are reported to the project team as soon as useful, allowing options to be explored before detailed final reporting. The goal is a proportionate response backed by technical evidence and collaboration, including façade, geometry or material amendments where appropriate.
For new matters, request a free 20-minute introductory consultation, with no obligation to proceed.
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