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Assessment of Glare Problems in Buildings with Large Glazed Areas

Abstract

Large glazed areas are increasingly incorporated into contemporary buildings to enhance daylight penetration, visual connectivity, natural ventilation, and architectural expression. Despite these advantages, extensive glazing can create glare problems when daylight and solar radiation are not adequately controlled. Excessive brightness, high luminance contrasts, and direct sunlight can cause visual discomfort, eye strain, reduced visibility, and difficulties performing tasks, particularly in spaces used for reading, office work, teaching, and computer-based activities. Assessing glare conditions is therefore essential for achieving effective daylighting without compromising visual comfort. This study assesses glare problems in buildings with large glazed areas, focusing on the architectural, environmental, and operational factors that contribute to uncomfortable visual conditions. The assessment considers window size, glazing type, window-to-wall ratio, façade orientation, window position, room depth, interior surface characteristics, and occupant location. External factors such as solar exposure, sky conditions, surrounding buildings, vegetation, and reflective surfaces are also considered in determining the occurrence and intensity of glare within occupied spaces. The study further examines the relationship between building orientation, solar movement, and glare occurrence. Glazed façades exposed to direct sunlight may experience periods of intense luminance and contrast depending on the time of day, season, and position of the sun. The influence of direct sunlight, reflected sunlight, and variations in daylight distribution across interior spaces is considered. These factors are examined to identify periods and locations where occupants are most likely to experience visual discomfort. In addition, the assessment evaluates architectural and technological strategies for controlling glare while retaining the benefits of natural daylight. External shading devices, horizontal and vertical fins, overhangs, louvers, blinds, curtains, solar-control glazing, light shelves, and vegetation are considered as potential glare-control measures. The influence of interior planning, furniture positioning, reflective finishes, ceiling surfaces, and workstation orientation is also examined because these elements can increase or reduce glare within occupied spaces. The study recognizes that effective glare control requires a balance between daylight availability, solar protection, energy efficiency, and occupant control. Excessive restriction of daylight may increase dependence on artificial lighting, while inadequate control can result in visual discomfort and reduced productivity. Glazing selection, façade design, shading systems, interior configuration, and user-adjustable controls must therefore be considered together during the design process. Regular evaluation and appropriate maintenance of glare-control systems are also important for sustaining visual performance throughout the building's operational life. The study aims to identify the major causes of glare problems in buildings with large glazed areas and assess design strategies capable of improving visual comfort. Its findings are expected to assist architects, engineers, developers, facility managers, and building users in making informed decisions regarding glazing proportions, façade orientation, daylight control, and shading design. The study ultimately contributes to the development of visually comfortable, energy-efficient, and environmentally responsive buildings that effectively utilize natural daylight while minimizing glare-related problems.

Keywords: Glare problems, large glazed areas, visual comfort, daylighting, glazing design, solar radiation, building orientation, window-to-wall ratio, solar control, shading devices, solar-control glazing, daylight management, occupant comfort, sustainable architecture.