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'Sufficient' daylight is not always optimal
Building regulations in the Netherlands: the basis for 'sufficient' daylight
The Netherlands has strict regulations governing the amount of daylight that must enter homes. For example, the Building Decree sets minimum requirements for the equivalent daylight area in living spaces (such as living rooms and bedrooms). In addition, there are supplementary NEN standards, including NEN 2057, which specifically address illuminance and light quality.
New construction vs. existing construction
- New construction: New homes generally meet higher standards for daylight. Architects and project developers are paying increasing attention to the orientation of the home and the balance between energy efficiency and light incidence.
- Existing buildings: In older homes or densely built-up areas, daylight penetration may be reduced due to smaller window areas, taller surrounding buildings or overdue maintenance.
Is there sufficient daylight for a healthy indoor climate?
Most modern homes meet the minimum requirements for daylight, but 'sufficient' daylight is not always the same as 'optimal'. The actual amount of daylight depends on factors such as orientation, surrounding buildings and the quality of the windows. Daylight is important for you:
- Biological clock: Daylight is essential for regulating our circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle). Too little natural light can lead to sleep problems and fatigue.
- Productivity: Research in offices and schools shows that daylight improves mood and concentration. This effect is just as important at home, especially now that working from home is on the rise.
- Spatial perception: Light creates a feeling of space and openness, which promotes satisfaction with your home.
Daylight standard in the 2012 Building DecreeThe 2012 Building Regulations stipulate that every living space, such as a living room or bedroom, must have sufficient daylight by means of a so-called equivalent daylight area. This takes into account not only the size of the window, but also the window frame profiles, overhangs and the type of glass. The minimum requirement is 10% of the floor area, often with a lower limit of approximately 0.5 m². Sufficient daylight promotes living comfort and health and saves energy. In new buildings, the local authority checks whether the daylight requirements are met. In existing buildings, it may be necessary to enlarge windows or install skylights if there is insufficient light. A building consultant can help to make an accurate light calculation and optimise daylight entry. When renovating, always ensure that the daylight standard is maintained or improved so that the home remains comfortable, healthy and legally compliant. |
Advantages and disadvantages of lots of daylight
Advantages
- Health and well-being: Daylight supports a healthy sleep cycle and can reduce symptoms of depression.
- Lower energy costs: You need less artificial light during the day.
- Attractive appearance: A light, sunny home feels spacious and pleasant, which can also increase the value of the property.
Disadvantages and points to consider
- Overheating: Large windows can cause heat problems in summer, especially without proper sun protection or ventilation.
- Glare: Bright sunlight can be annoying when working on a computer screen, for example.
- Privacy: Lots of glass can lead to people looking in from outside. Of course, this can be solved with frosted glass or decoration.
- Energy loss with older windows: Outdated glass may not insulate as well, leading to draughts and higher heating costs.
Do we know enough?
Consumers often choose their home based on location, price and aesthetic aspects. It is well known that daylight has a huge impact on health and comfort, but this is not always taken into account in the final decision.
There is still a knowledge gap when it comes to:
- Health benefits: Many people are unaware of the extent to which (sufficient) daylight has a positive effect on mood and sleep quality.
- Technical solutions: Consider the importance of the right glazing, façade construction and sun protection to maintain a comfortable indoor climate.
- Balance between light and energy: How does an open, light-filled home relate to energy performance and low energy bills?
Greater awareness of the importance of sufficient daylight through the roof or façade
Daylight is essential for a healthy indoor climate and has a major impact on our well-being, energy savings and living comfort. Although most Dutch homes comply with minimum building regulations, in practice there is still much to be gained through greater awareness, renovations and smart applications of, for example, sun protection and insulating (sun-resistant) glazing. Intura is happy to help architects, engineers, contractors and consumers make smart daylight choices via the façade or roof.
Would you like to know more about daylight solutions, energy-saving measures or renovation options?
Then follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram or Facebook for tips, inspiration and advice. This will help you work step by step towards a more comfortable, healthier and more sustainable home.
