Investigating Adaptive Daylight Integration Strategies Using Light-Pipe Technologies In Heritage Building Envelopes

Abstract

This paper explored the adaptive strategies of daylight integration with light pipe technologies on building envelopes of heritage buildings in the Pakistani setting. The study was done on the improvement of traditional architectural fabric of old buildings in Pakistan by the addition of modern light-pipes without interfering with the cultural and aesthetic integrity of the old buildings. The paper reviewed the chosen heritage structures in the large Pakistani cities such as Lahore, Multan, and Peshawar where the high urban form and the tightness of street grid substantially limited the natural daylight entering the interior areas. The study evaluated both thermal and luminous performance of tubular daylight equipment embedded into the already existing heritage envelopes with the consideration of the various climatic zones in Pakistan, including arid and semi-arid climatic zones. It was measured in the field to test the level of illumination, energy use, and occupant visual comfort in the building prior and following light-pipe integration. The research also investigated the compatibility of light-pipe mounting schemes with the structural limitations of the load-carrying masonry and decorative fronts found on the Mughal and colonial buildings in Pakistan. The results showed that adaptive light-pipe technologies enhanced interior daylighting environments and at the same time maintained the architectural character of old buildings. The study added a context-related framework of sustainable retrofitting of daylight in Pakistani heritage buildings, which is important to national conservation purposes and energy conservation aims.