Summary
Lighting is a major factor in determining the way
in which people experience the internal environment and how they are
able to respond to certain tasks. The positive contribution of natural
light, in particular, is presently being revisited, following a period
when it was largely devalued by artificial alternatives.
Traditional dry sports hall design has tended to
exclude natural light. This is a consequence of technical and
professional guidance. The resulting designs are rarely compatible with
attractive architecture and pleasing indoor environments. This
“black box” approach is also incompatible with resource
conservation, pollution prevention and cost-in-use savings. The
situation in sports halls is exacerbated by the constraints that this
approach places on other servicing strategies, in particular
ventilation.
It is now more acceptable that daylight, when
available, should be the predominant form of lighting in most types of
building. If appropriately designed and integrated, it can contribute
significantly to distinctive and attractive architecture, and to
occupants’ sense of well-being. Daylight, if properly designed
into a sports hall, and well controlled, can also offset the energy
consumption associated with artificial lighting. This is a significant
proportion of overall energy consumption of sports buildings.
This document intentionally focuses on the
provision of useful, controllable daylight, however there are wide
ranging issues associated with daylighting which also need
consideration.
Large buildings such as sports halls have a number
of inter-related spaces. The sports hall itself cannot exploit direct
sunlight, and passive solar gain. However the building as a whole might
benefit by consideration of the appropriate layout.
Large buildings may deny light to neighbouring
buildings and this should be considered at the outset if a proper
designed response is to be found. Outside playing spaces need attention
if they produce light pollution and energy wastage. This should not
compromise safety and security.
There is an immense amount of quality documentation
on lighting and daylighting and the reader is encouraged to investigate
other guidance, including the short list of publications identified,
and to seek guidance from those organisations also listed.
The report is intended to be a stand alone guide
but the supporting research document - Daylighting
in Sports Halls - can be obtained from
Gaia Research or sportscotland
