Working with light

Working with light

Light is the visible energy that animates space and gives life to form and colour.

Roche Sydney, Australia
We are born of light. The seasons are felt through light. We only know the world as it is evoked by light. Louis Kahn Architect

Light is part of the choreography of space

Natural light during the day enhances the plasticity of a structure and provides an awareness of time, which is essential for people’s wellbeing.

Roche buildings are composed with a balanced use of natural light. The combination of daylight and artificial lighting schemes for workplaces are important planning aspects.

Natural light through skylights, and visual connections to the outdoors provide a creative environment. Solar and glare protection should be considered to ensure optimum comfort.

Roche Sydney, Australia

The amount of daylight coming into a building is relative to the depth of space, the height of the windows and the reflected light depending on the colour of interior finishes. Consider this when planning, as natural light is essential for all permanent workplaces.

Roche Sydney, Australia

Window area

Consider:

  • Window proportions.
  • Glare control from sunlight.
  • Heat gain / solar shading.
  • Floor plate depth from glazed façade.
  • Combination of daylight and artificial lighting.

Roche Mannheim, Germany

Daylight

Consider:

  • Bringing daylight in through the atrium, skylights, loggias, and any other opportunity across the building.
  • Orientation.
  • Colours of interior finishes.

Roche Suzhou, China

A balance of light

Artificial light is a complement to natural light and serves to highlight the character and atmosphere of a building. The quality of artificial light is important to simulate daylight.

A concise lighting concept is instrumental for the specific use and atmosphere of the space, as it projects order and rhythm in relationship to building structure, orientation, and spatial emphasis.

Lighting design should consider zoning in the use of space and integration of sensors for energy optimization. Night-time light pollution should be minimized.

Roche Basel, Switzerland

Key to Working with light

  • Consider the relationship between window area and depth of space to achieve right levels of natural light.
  • Natural light is essential for all permanent workplaces, provide shading and glare control for user comfort.
  • Provide visual connections to the exterior.
  • Achieve a balanced combination of natural and artificial light.