Improving illuminance performance by implementing a kinetic façade system: case study of office building in Dubai

Abstract

Buildings incorporating kinetic architecture are designed to allow parts of the structure to move without reducing the structural integrity of the building. This is believed to substantially improve both energy efficiency and lighting performance. The aim of this study was to investigate the advantages of employing a kinetic façade system and achieving a comfort illuminance level. A G + 7 office building was chosen as the case study for this research. DIVA-for-Rhino simulation software was used to determine how the proposed kinetic system was integrated and compare it to the baseline case. The results show that kinetic louvers can help to achieve light levels in the range 100–300 lux, and a brightness level of 250 to 350 cd/m2. The total energy used decreased by 21.3% and the Unified Glare Rating (UGR) fell from 29.5 to below 10. In addition, Kinetic louvers achieved 100–300 lux and a brightness level of 250 to 350 cd/m2. Furthermore, it was found that an annual reduction of 12% occurred on the east side. More detailed analysis is provided in the paper which will help architects and designers to integrate the kinetic system in the façade of their buildings and achieve visual comfort.