Sunlight in dwellings: Validation of insolation criteria

Abstract

Previous surveys have identified a relationship between the orientation of living room windows and residents' expressions of satisfaction with the sunlight they admit. This paper describes the refinement of a methodology devised to resolve the differences between levels of satisfaction that arise from windows being variously obstructed by neighbouring buildings and other site features. The techniques described have been tested in a pilot study, centred on an inner-city housing development in Portsmouth. Residents' subjective assessments have been compared with alternative reference quantities which have been computed using newly-developed sunlight modelling software. Relationships have been examined and correlations calculated. The research methods used have been shown capable of identifying and calibrating responses not previously recognised or measured.

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