Page 29 - Between light and shade

Light, transparency and reflection

such a significant impact on the materiality of
the envelope (facade or skylight) as glazing and
sun protection.

Many other factors relating to openings have
an influence on architecture including the ques-
tion of the penetration of light into a room 6,
which is always more efficient through the
higher section. Consequently, the lower section
of a window could be solid and better insulated,
but this would deprive occupants of the pleasure
of the view looking down, onto nature, commu-
nity life and the interplay of shadows. This is why
I prefer floor to ceiling openings, despite their
reduced luminous efficacy, with windows equip-
ped with a transparent parapet.

There is also the issue, among many others, of
natural ventilation, which also raises questions of
comfort, both acoustic and olfactory, and dust.
All these factors and questions interact when
designing openings.

As for economic aspects, notwithstanding
what is technically possible, there is a reason
behind the size and proportions of openings.

6 The flexibility of use of this kind of room is also greater since
it is high-ceilinged and shallow. A shallow building (12 to 13m)
with ceiling heights of 3m is suitable for most uses (housing,
schools, hospitals, shops, administration, workshops, etc.) and
is therefore able to respond to changing needs. Conversely, the
majority of deep buildings, in some cases built less than 30
years ago, cannot be adapted to meet changing needs and are
destined for demolition.
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