A dynamic analysis of Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) availability to achieve a biophilic office building in three highly dense Chinese cities

Abstract

The application of plants has been established as one of the most important biophilic solutions in an office building. Access to Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) is critical for sustaining plant growth in an indoor space. Using advanced ray-tracing simulation and various weather data, this study presents a dynamic analysis of PAR availability and distributions in a Chinese open-plan office building, taking into consideration positions, orientations, obstructions, and locations. The results could be developed into design guidelines for the establishment of a biophilic office building with a high potential to bring indoors a ‘green nature’ for building occupants.