Daylight simulation, commonly referred to as daylight modelling, daylight analysis, natural light modelling, daylight performance assessment, or daylighting studies.
Shadow Diagrams daylight simulations are advanced digital tools used to model and assess how natural daylight enters and moves through interior spaces over time. These simulations are particularly valuable for architects, designers, and consultants who aim to improve visual comfort, reduce energy use, and achieve sustainable design outcomes.
What Shadow Diagrams Daylight Simulations Do
Shadow Diagrams uses professional-grade daylighting simulation software that employs ray-tracing algorithms to predict how daylight will interact with the built environment. The software evaluates daylight performance under realistic, location-specific conditions, taking into account:
Geographic location (latitude and longitude)
Season and time of day
Building orientation and surrounding context
Material properties (interior surface reflectance, finishes)
Window placement, size, and glazing type
By incorporating these variables, Shadow Diagrams daylight simulations deliver precise and meaningful insights into the availability, quality, and distribution of daylight throughout the year.
Daylight Performance Metrics Analysed
Shadow Diagrams daylight simulations focus on globally recognised daylighting metrics, including:
Daylight Factor (DF):
A static measure showing the ratio of internal to external light levels under overcast sky conditions.
Typically, a DF of 2–5% is desirable for comfortable, naturally lit environments.
Spatial Daylight Autonomy (sDA):
A dynamic, annual metric that shows the percentage of floor area receiving a minimum illuminance level (e.g., 300 lux) for a certain portion of the occupied hours.
It reflects real-world performance across changing daylight conditions.
Annual Sunlight Exposure (ASE):
Measures areas that receive excessive direct sunlight, which may cause glare or overheating.
Often used to assess visual comfort and thermal risk in tandem with sDA.
Outputs and Visualisations
Shadow Diagrams simulations generate professional outputs, including:
False colour renderings: Showing light intensity in a space using gradient colours.
Luminance and illuminance maps: Providing precise lux values for targeted analysis.
Annual or seasonal daylight profiles: Illustrating how daylight changes across time.
Design comparisons: Visual evaluation of multiple glazing layouts or configurations.
These outputs assist both in design decision-making and in presenting clear, data-backed visuals to clients, approval bodies, or sustainability assessors.
Design and Sustainability Advantages
Using daylight simulations from Shadow Diagrams enables:
Strategic daylighting design: Optimising the size and position of windows and skylights.
Enhanced occupant comfort: Supporting visual comfort and wellbeing by avoiding glare and ensuring sufficient illumination.
Energy efficiency: Reducing dependency on artificial lighting and lowering operational costs.
Sustainable compliance: Facilitating certification under Green Star, WELL, LEED, or other rating systems.
Summary
Shadow Diagrams daylight simulations offer a robust, evidence-based approach to designing with natural light. By accurately predicting daylight performance in various conditions, they empower architects and designers to create environments that are not only visually pleasing but also energy-efficient, sustainable, and supportive of occupant health. These simulations ensure that daylight is integrated intentionally and effectively, aligning aesthetics with measurable performance outcomes.
