Daylight variability and human perception

Abstract

Visual perception of a space is influenced by the composition and behaviour of light. Daylight as a natural element, creates different atmospheres in the same space by its variation of intensity, colour, and direction. It creates dynamic shadow patterns, fluctuating brightness and contrast levels. Although the capacity to create variation - therefore contrast, is an important characteristic of daylight - it is often neglected in research, where comfort and visual performance take prominence. This is a research initiative to emphasise the value of daylight variation on spatial quality and human perception. The research adopts a two-step process, where, digital images are first mapped to generate contrast diagrams, and secondly, the generated digital images form the basis for a survey utilising a seven-point semantic differential scale, to explore the relationship between daylight variability and human perception. The temporal variation of daylight is explored by diagramming the spatial images at selected times of the day and year. The scope of the study is limited to selected contemporary residential spaces and focus on the manner of integrating daylight into spaces. Results show that a direct relationship between daylight variability and human perception for side lit spaces is not evident, yet it is evident in top lit options.