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We will live our lives, build our buildings and occupy them under the light of the sun, whether we wish to or not. The radiance from our neighboring star carries the potential for both harm and for good. The trick of course, is to maximize and capture its benefits, while blocking or avoiding its harmful effects.
Dealing with the potential for good and bad effects of sunlight on and in buildings lies within the capabilities of designers. On the one hand, we welcome natural light. It carries many physical and psychological benefits, while also reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and artificial light sources. On the other hand, incoming light and heat can destroy the contents and furnishings in our buildings and tear apart the materials that comprise their exterior envelopes. It can also destroy the affordability of our utility bills in areas where cooling is a primary concern.
Balance is needed to walk the tightrope of when to avoid and exclude or when to embrace and welcome incoming sunlight.
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