DAYLIGHTING AND VISUAL COMFORT STUDIES OF DESIGN STUDIOS IN FACULTY BUILDINGS

Abstract

Daylighting is an effective method in creating a comfortable visual environment and energy efficiency in university buildings. The potential for energy savings through daylighting studies is great was investigated using a case study approach on the three design studios in KAED Building, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). The methodology simultaneously undertook field measurements and opinion surveys in the studios facing north, south, and northwest. Daylighting measurements using the Lux-Meter and calculations of the lighting energy consumption were conducted. The questionnaire survey was distributed to the users of the studios to assess their opinions on visual comfort. The results showed that the lighting levels were not up to the required standard. However, the lack of daylight did not hinder the users' visual comfort. The study proposed changing the existing less-efficient Fluorescent-T8 lamps to the more-efficient LED (light-emitting diode) lights for energy efficiency. Calculations on the annual energy consumption yielded a 40% reduction in the lighting bills and a payback period of around five years.