Natural lighting refers to the lighting that is generated naturally with the help of natural sources such as the sun or the stars. The technique of natural lighting harnessing requires strategic use of natural light to be let into your home with the help of careful architectural designs such as windows or skylights.
CENTRAL COURTYARD SYSTEM
The central courtyard was used for working, gathering, and sometimes keeping small livestock. An elevated walkway frequently ran around two or three sides of the courtyards in the houses. Such structures afforded protection, and could even be made defensible.
INDOOR COURTYARD
An atrium is an open-to-sky space within a building. It may be glass covered or open at top. It is surrounded by walls (usually of glass) by all the four sides. A courtyard is an open-to-sky space of a building.
LARGE OPENING WINDOWS
Large Opening windows are great for adding natural light to your home. They have wide frames that open outward, allowing you to extend them into the outside and allow plenty of light and fresh air in. They open from a single hinge on the side, allowing homeowners maximum air circulation and a beautiful view of the outside.
CROSS VENTILATION – AIR IN AND AIR OUT
Cross ventilation is a natural ventilation technique that involves allowing fresh air to enter a building through one opening and exit through another on the opposite side. This creates a continuous airflow, helping to cool the space and improve air quality.
How Does It Work?
- Inlet: Fresh air enters the building through an opening, such as an open window or door, on the windward side (the side facing the prevailing wind).
- Airflow: The wind pressure forces the incoming air to travel through the building.
- Outlet: The air exits the building through another opening on the leeward side the side opposite the windward side, creating a continuous airflow.
Benefits of Cross Ventilation
● Natural Cooling: Reduces reliance on air conditioning, saving energy.
● Improved Air Quality: Replaces stale air with fresh air, reducing the buildup of pollutants and moisture.
● Reduced Humidity: Helps to control humidity levels, preventing mold and mildew growth.
● Enhanced Comfort: Provides a more comfortable indoor environment. Considerations for Effective Cross Ventilation
● Building Orientation: The building should be oriented to capture prevailing winds.
● Window Placement: Windows should be placed on opposite sides of the building for optimal airflow.
● Wind Direction: The prevailing wind direction should be considered when designing the building.
● Window Size and Placement: The size and placement of windows can affect the efficiency of cross ventilation.
LARGE OPENINGS IF IT IS NORTH & EAST
The decision to use the front portion wall as maximum openings for North and East-facing houses is primarily influenced by the principles of Vastu Shastra, an ancient Indian architectural and design tradition. These principles aim to create harmonious living spaces that align with natural energy flows and
promote well-being. Here’s a breakdown of the rationale behind this practice:
Partial Light Penetration with Jalli and CNC Pattern: A South and West Placement Analysis
Understanding Jalli and CNC Patterns
● Jalli: A traditional Indian latticework, typically made of stone, wood, or metal. It allows for controlled airflow and light penetration.
● CNC Pattern: Computer numerically controlled patterns cut intomaterials like wood, metal, or stone. These can be intricate and customizable.
Placement in South and West Positions
The south and west directions in India often experience intense sunlight, particularly during the afternoon and evening. Using jalli and CNC patterns in these positions can offer several benefits:
- Controlled Natural Light
● Reduces glare: The intricate patterns of jalli and CNC designs can diffuse sunlight, preventing harsh glare and improving visual comfort.
● Provides natural lighting: While reducing glare, these elements still allow for sufficient natural light to enter the space, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.
- Privacy and Ventilation
● Privacy: The latticework of jalli can obscure views from outside while still allowing for natural light and ventilation.
● Improved airflow: The open spaces within the jalli and CNC patterns can enhance airflow, providing a cooling effect and reducing the need for air conditioning. - Aesthetic Appeal
● Architectural interest: Jalli and CNC patterns can add a unique and visually appealing element to the building’s exterior.
● Cultural significance: Jalli is a traditional Indian architectural feature, incorporating it into the design can enhance its cultural significance.
- Energy Efficiency
● Reduced cooling load: By providing natural ventilation and reducing the need for artificial lighting, jalli and CNC patterns can help lower energy consumption.
● Improved thermal comfort: The controlled light and airflow can create a more comfortable indoor environment, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling.
Key Considerations
● Orientation: The specific orientation of the jalli and CNC patterns within the south and west walls can influence the amount of sunlight and airflow. Careful planning is essential.
● Material and Design: The choice of material (e.g., stone, wood, metal) and the complexity of the design can impact the overall aesthetic and functional performance.
● Local Climate: The local climate and weather patterns should be considered when selecting jalli and CNC patterns. For example, in regions with heavy rainfall, materials that can withstand moisture should be chosen. By strategically placing jalli and CNC patterns in the south and west positions, architects and designers can create spaces that are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally efficient, providing natural light, ventilation, privacy, and energy savings.