Retrofitting for Daylight Enhancement of Institutional Buildings

Abstract

Retrofitting offers prospects for enhancement of daylight in built spaces. However, the quantum of its effect is a function of the architectural features of the space and the possibilities of its modification. The study sought to ascertain the extent to which some architectural modifications and strategies could improve daylight in the corridors on the upper floor of some new buildings in Modibbo Adama University of Technology, Yola. The simulated experimental design deployed lux meter to evaluate lighting levels at selected points on the floor of the existing corridors, and outside the building. Each of the corridors measured about 29.5m long, 2.0m wide and 3.0m high. Light levels were also observed on the corresponding points in and outside of the space in an architectural model of upper part of the building constructed at scale 1:25. Different roofs with monitor light of various sizes over the corridor were mounted on the model; reflective surfaces were introduced on the corridor walls and ceiling. Daylight levels were observed in each case with and without the reflective surfaces under four different lighting conditions. Data generated were analysed using descriptive statistics including percentage, mean and range. Daylight factors were estimated for different cases of the space, and used as a measure of daylight performance. Results showed over 2500% improvement of daylight factor in the corridor, from 0.61% in the existing situation to 16.3% in the proposed monitor roof opening about 12% of corridor floor area, and reflective wall surfaces. The study recommends employing retrofitting concepts on the existing buildings to enhance daylight factor in the corridors.

Keywords: Corridors, Daylight Factor, Retrofitting, Institutional Buildings