I have always had a sense of wonder about light and how it imparts a sense of spirit in a space. While artificial light is incredibly valuable, it cannot bring life to the world around us in the same way that natural lighting can. During my studies in architectural lighting design at TCU, my specific interest has become focused on natural light and the role that it plays in design. Natural light is a creative tool that lighting designers can utilize to refashion the character of a building. Natural light is unique in the way that it is unpredictable and always changing, while artificial light remains static. This gives daylight the ability to enrich the spatial experience and offer psychological comfort to occupants.
My interest in the phenomenon of natural light has led me to further my exploration through my thesis work. I have began to experiment with the possibilities that daylight offers as a creative medium for designers and anticipate to further understand the effects of different daylighting systems. My aim of my study is to provide information on the possible effects of daylighting on the human body and the role that it plays within architecture. I find it important to consider in advance that the process of designing for daylight is unpredictable and always evolving. That is why I am hopeful that my final work will accurately highlight my process.
Sacred Light
When considering all the different spaces where daylighting is important, I found that it plays a particularly special role in sacred spaces. The initial encounter that a person has with a space is unrepeatable, so it is critical to anticipate how the design will immediately make others feel. Through design, we are able to create places where people feel as if they are a part of something larger than themselves. In the times of a pandemic, creating for the sacred in spaces has never been powerful than as it is right now. Architecture connects us to the direct physical world around us and in times of fear, can spiritually connect us as well. That is why I have chosen to design a sacred space that will incorporate the transformational and awakening effects of daylight.
Human Experience
My thesis research explores daylighting and its effect on the circadian rhythm corresponding with the human experience with light. My main interest lies in covering how the circadian rhythm and sleep-wake rhythm systems are generated and modulated by natural light. The final research will support the design of the sacred space by applying evidence-based lighting criteria. To integrate in emotional and aesthetic considerations, the presence of daylighting must be properly balanced to avoid human discomfort. Considering design, location, and weather, a thoughtful approach will be developed and adopted.
Execution
Experimental research using a project-based approach is the selected research strategy of my work. I believe that in order to fully understand daylight, I will first have to go through many rounds of trial and error. I plan to take on a hands on approach and develop a series of models, both physical and digital. The experiments that are done with the model will be based on studies of the geographical orientation, the weather and the circadian rhythm during the day and year. I will document my findings over time through this blog.
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