Screen Optimization Studies
2024
This study was done in order to optimize a shading system for a villa project located in Kuwait City.
A rigorous exercise was undertaken in order to reach a GRC design option that strikes the balance between privacy, aesthetics, sun-shading, and efficiency. By utilizing parametric tools, the resulting screen achieves the set-out goals intended for the project. It provides a very interesting light and shade condition over the entire year; a rigorous parametric exercise was done in order to achieve a pattern and percentage of openness in the GRC that allows for a good amount of direct light to enter inside the room, while maintaining the desired privacy for the villa.
Following is the process undertaken to achieve the desired design.
Site Context
Site studies are done initially to assess the existing conditions of the project plot. Key elements that are considered in this phase include the plot orientation, sun paths, prevailing winds, and key views.
Solar Analysis
Analysis is then done to assess the solar exposure on the building's facade. The analysis takes into consideration three annual periods, each characterized by a different sun angle. The assessment is done to optimize the ideal solution to mitigate solar heat gain.
Shadow Visualization
The study further considered the same three annual periods to visualize the sun path and shadows at 15:00. The shadow visualization is done to further study daylight access, assess window openings, and solar shading.
Screen Optimization
Parametric tools are utilized to form a range of screen profiles. The profiles are then arranged in response to the solar analysis and site context to form an optimized distribution of openings.
Cost and production were also a major consideration in the distribution of the screens; thus, no more than four profiles were used for each screen panel.
Screen Distribution
Screen panels are layered and distributed along the facade in response to climatic protection, views, and program considerations. Areas that require higher degrees of privacy were more screened than others - the same is then applied to areas that require higher climatic protection.
Daylight Analysis
A final sunlight study is done to ensure an optimal level of daylight is entering the spaces in each of the three main annual periods, while maintaining the project's privacy.
